New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 64
Here are 16 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 64:
Hedley Howarth
Hedley Howarth (December 25, 1943 Grey Lynn-November 7, 2008 Auckland) was a New Zealand cricketer.
Howarth was a right-handed batsman and leg spin bowler who played for Auckland and Northern Districts in New Zealand's domestic competitions. He made his first-class debut in 1962 and went on to play 113 matches over a career that spanned 16 seasons. He scored 4,179 runs and took 332 wickets in his first-class career. Howarth played three Test matches for New Zealand, all against Pakistan in 1969. After his playing career, he became a respected cricket administrator and was the CEO of Auckland Cricket for many years. In recognition of his services to cricket, he was made a life member of New Zealand Cricket in 2006.
Aside from cricket, Hedley Howarth was also a successful businessman. He was the managing director of a financial and investment company, Forsyth Barr, for over two decades. Howarth was instrumental in transforming the firm from a small brokerage house into a leading investment bank in New Zealand. He also served as a director of The New Zealand Guardian Trust Company and the New Zealand Stock Exchange. In 2003, he was appointed a member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to business and cricket. Howarth was known for his leadership, dedication, and passion for the sport of cricket.
He died in cancer.
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Julius Vogel
Julius Vogel (February 24, 1835 London-March 12, 1899 Molesey) was a New Zealand writer and politician.
He is best known for his science fiction novel, "Anno Domini 2000, or, Woman's Destiny", which he wrote while serving as the eighth Premier of New Zealand. Vogel was born in London, England and immigrated to New Zealand in 1861. He worked as a journalist before entering politics, where he became a strong advocate for immigration and public works projects. During his tenure as Premier, Vogel implemented significant reforms, including increased land ownership opportunities for settlers and the creation of a public education system. He also played a key role in the construction of railways and telegraph lines throughout New Zealand. Vogel's novel "Anno Domini 2000" envisioned a future society in which women held positions of power and influence. The book was published in 1889 and is considered one of the earliest examples of feminist science fiction.
In addition to his political and literary accomplishments, Julius Vogel was also a successful businessman. He co-founded the New Zealand Herald newspaper and was involved in various banking and mining ventures throughout his career. Vogel's advocacy for immigration was driven in part by his belief that New Zealand's economic prosperity relied on a larger population to support industry and agriculture. He implemented a scheme known as the "Vogel Plan", which offered assisted passage to immigrants willing to settle in New Zealand and contribute to national development. Today, Vogel is remembered as a significant figure in New Zealand history for his contributions to politics, literature, and economic development.
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Ellen Melville
Ellen Melville (May 13, 1882-July 27, 1946 Remuera) was a New Zealand lawyer.
She was born in Bristol, England, and her family migrated to New Zealand when she was six years old. Melville studied law at Auckland University College and became the second woman to graduate in law in New Zealand.
In 1913, she became the first woman to establish her own legal practice in Auckland. Melville was also an advocate for women's suffrage and served as the president of the Auckland Women's Equality League.
Melville was also an active member of the Auckland City Council and was the first female city councillor in Auckland. She served on the council for 12 years and fought for many social and political causes.
In honor of her achievements and contributions to the community, Auckland's first new downtown public space in 100 years was named after her in 2019, The Ellen Melville Centre.
In addition to her legal and political work, Ellen Melville was also an accomplished pianist and a lover of the arts. She served on the board of the Auckland Art Gallery and was involved in promoting and supporting local artists. Melville was also a keen traveler, and she visited Europe, Asia, and Africa during her lifetime. She often incorporated her travels and experiences into her legal work, bringing a global perspective to her clients. Melville never married and lived with her sister for most of her life. Despite facing discrimination as a woman in the legal and political spheres, Melville remained a fierce advocate for gender equality and dedicated her life to improving the lives of New Zealanders.
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Dan Sullivan
Dan Sullivan (July 18, 1882 Waltham, New Zealand-April 8, 1947) was a New Zealand personality.
He was a renowned rugby union player who represented New Zealand internationally between 1905 and 1907. Sullivan played as a halfback and was known for his quick thinking and strategic play. In addition to being a sportsman, he was also a successful businessman and later became a member of parliament, serving as the Minister of Customs and Minister of Railways. Sullivan was one of the most influential figures in New Zealand politics during the 1930s and 1940s, and his contributions to the country's economic and social development are still recognized today.
Sullivan was the son of Irish immigrants who arrived in New Zealand during the 1860s. He began playing rugby at a young age and quickly gained a reputation as one of the most talented players in the country. Sullivan was selected for the All Blacks team in 1905, which is considered one of the greatest teams in the sport's history. During the team's tour of the United Kingdom, they played 35 matches and won them all, including a historic victory over Wales, which helped establish New Zealand as a force in world rugby.
After retiring from rugby, Sullivan became a successful businessman. He established a chain of country-wide butcheries that became one of the largest meat suppliers in the country. He also worked as a stockbroker and served as the president of the Auckland Chamber of Commerce.
In 1932, Sullivan was elected to parliament as a member of the United Party, and he quickly rose through the ranks. He was appointed as the Minister of Customs in 1935 and oversaw the implementation of new trade policies that helped boost New Zealand's exports. In 1938, he became the Minister of Railways, and he oversaw the modernization of the country's rail infrastructure.
Sullivan was a passionate advocate for social welfare and played a key role in establishing New Zealand's first state housing program. He also helped create the National Provident Fund, which provided retirement benefits for New Zealanders.
In addition to his many achievements, Sullivan was known for his humility and his commitment to serving his country. He died in 1947, and his legacy as one of New Zealand's greatest statesmen and sportsmen lives on.
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Isaac Luck
Isaac Luck (May 12, 1817 Oxford-December 15, 1881 Bristol) was a New Zealand architect.
He was born in England and later migrated to New Zealand in the late 1850s. Luck worked primarily in the Gothic Revival style and was responsible for many notable buildings, including the Canterbury Provincial Council Buildings, Christchurch Cathedral, and the former Supreme Court building in Auckland. He was known for his attention to detail and for using local materials in his designs. In addition to his work as an architect, Luck was also involved in local politics and served as a member of parliament for the city of Christchurch.
Luck's interest in architecture started at a young age, when he began to study under his father, who was an architect in Oxford. After completing his education, Luck worked as an assistant to the renowned English architect, George Gilbert Scott, who had a major influence on his design aesthetic. Luck's work in New Zealand helped establish the Gothic Revival movement as the dominant architectural style in the country, and he became one of the most respected architects of his time.
Luck was also a committed Christian and played a significant role in the construction of many churches throughout New Zealand. He played a key role in the commissioning and design of St. Mary's Church in Timaru, which remains one of the most beautiful churches in the country. In recognition of his contribution to the field, the New Zealand Institute of Architects established the Isaac Luck Award, which is awarded annually to the architect who has made the greatest contribution to architecture in New Zealand.
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Zin Harris
Zin Harris (July 18, 1927 New Zealand-December 1, 1991) was a New Zealand personality.
He is best known for hosting the popular children's television show "Zin Zin" from 1965 to 1981. Harris began his career as a radio host and later transitioned to TV, where he quickly became a household name. He was celebrated for his warmth, kindness, and humor, and was often referred to as "New Zealand's Mr. Nice Guy." In addition to his work in television, Harris was also active in the community and served as a goodwill ambassador for many charities. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1984 for his contributions to television and his philanthropic efforts. Harris passed away in 1991 at the age of 64.
In his early life, Zin Harris worked as an announcer for the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation before moving on to host his own shows. He was also a talented musician and performed in the New Zealand Army Band during World War II. Harris's legacy continued to live on after his death with many awards recognizing his contributions to the entertainment industry, including induction into the New Zealand Television Hall of Fame in 2002. A statue of Harris was erected in his hometown of Dunedin in 2014, honoring his impact on New Zealand television and culture.
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Verdun Scott
Verdun Scott (July 31, 1916 Devonport, New Zealand-August 2, 1980 Devonport, New Zealand) was a New Zealand personality.
He was best known for his long career in radio broadcasting, where he hosted a variety of shows, including "The Quiz Kids" and "Have a Shot". Scott also had a successful acting career, with numerous roles in New Zealand film and television productions. In addition to his entertainment work, Scott was a prominent supporter of animal rights and worked with a number of animal welfare organizations throughout his life. He was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1978 for his contributions to broadcasting and the community.
Verdun Scott was born on July 31, 1916, in Devonport, New Zealand. After completing his education, he started his career as a radio broadcaster and hosted various shows, including "The Quiz Kids" and "Have a Shot". He was known for his engaging personality and ability to make people laugh. His popularity led him to a successful acting career, with many roles on the big and small screen.
Scott was deeply passionate about animal rights and welfare, and he supported various organizations aimed at protecting animals. He often spoke out against animal cruelty and was a well-respected advocate for animal rights in New Zealand.
In recognition of his significant contributions to broadcasting and the community, Scott was awarded the Order of the British Empire in 1978. He passed away on August 2, 1980, in his hometown of Devonport, leaving behind a legacy as one of New Zealand's most beloved personalities.
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Douglas St. John
Douglas St. John (February 26, 1928 Nelson-July 11, 1992 Hawke's Bay) was a New Zealand personality.
He was a well-known television and radio broadcaster, as well as a journalist and author. St. John worked as a newsreader for the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation (NZBC), and became one of the country's most recognized voices. He later worked for Radio New Zealand and also hosted several television programs. St. John was also an accomplished writer, with several published works to his name, including a book on the history of rugby in New Zealand. He was awarded an OBE for his services to broadcasting in 1987. St. John passed away in 1992 at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy as one of New Zealand's most beloved media personalities.
Apart from being a prominent broadcaster and writer, Douglas St. John was also actively involved in public service. He served as a Justice of the Peace and was a member of the New Zealand Council for Civil Liberties. St. John was vocal about his support for various civil rights movements, including the Māori land rights movement. He was known for his calm and trustworthy demeanor, and was often called upon to provide commentary on major national events. In addition to his OBE, St. John was also awarded the New Zealand 1990 Commemoration Medal for his contribution to the country's media industry. His legacy continues to live on, with the Douglas St. John Memorial Scholarship awarded annually to promising students studying broadcasting and journalism in New Zealand.
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Lou Petersen
Lou Petersen (April 19, 1897 Akaroa-June 25, 1961 Christchurch) was a New Zealand personality.
He was a well-known radio announcer and broadcaster from the 1920s to the 1950s, and was considered one of the pioneers of radio in New Zealand. Petersen also had a successful career as an actor and theatre director, and was particularly renowned for his work with the Canterbury Repertory Theatre. He appeared in a number of films during the 1940s and 1950s, and was also involved in the production of several documentaries. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Petersen was a dedicated community activist and served as a member of the Christchurch City Council for several years. Despite his success in various fields, Petersen remained humble and deeply committed to supporting local initiatives and individuals throughout his life.
Throughout his broadcasting career, Lou Petersen became renowned for his clear and mellifluous speaking voice, which earned him the nickname "The Voice of Canterbury." He began his career as a broadcaster with the Canterbury Radio Society, working as an announcer and producer. During the 1930s, he presented a variety of programs, including news broadcasts, talk shows, and music programs, and he played a crucial role in establishing the Canterbury Broadcasting Company, which later became the Christchurch station 3ZB.
As a director of the Canterbury Repertory Theatre, Petersen was responsible for staging a number of highly successful productions, including works by Shakespeare, Molière, and Chekhov. He was also involved in the founding of the New Zealand Broadcasting Association and helped to establish standards and practices for radio broadcasting in New Zealand.
In addition to his community service work with the city council, Petersen also served on a number of charitable committees and was a patron of several cultural organizations. He was recognized for his contributions to broadcasting and the arts in New Zealand with numerous awards, including an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1957. Lou Petersen's legacy continues to be celebrated in New Zealand, and his contributions to the development of radio broadcasting and theater remain influential to this day.
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May Beatty
May Beatty (June 4, 1880 Christchurch-April 1, 1945 Covina) also known as Mae Beatty was a New Zealand actor and singer.
Born Anna May McKinney, she adopted the stage name May Beatty and began performing professionally in her late teens. Beatty gained popularity as a performer in New Zealand before moving to Australia and eventually to the United States. In Hollywood, she appeared in over 150 films, often playing maternal or comedic roles. She also continued her singing career, performing in vaudeville and on the radio. Beatty was known for her distinctive deep voice and comedic timing. Outside of her career, she was an avid traveler and adventurer, visiting remote locations including the Amazon rainforest and Easter Island. She passed away at the age of 64 in Covina, California.
Beatty's first role in a major film was in the 1926 silent film "Raggedy Rose". She became a sought-after character actress and appeared in notable films such as "King Kong" (1933), "Mr. Deeds Goes to Town" (1936), and "Bringing Up Baby" (1938). In addition to her film career, Beatty was a regular performer on the radio show "The Jack Benny Program" and also appeared in the TV series "The Ford Television Theatre". In her personal life, she was married to actor and director Robert Bolder and they had one child together. Beatty was known for her charitable work and was a member of the Hollywood Women's Press Club, which supported the service men and women of World War II. Her contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960.
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Rupert Julian
Rupert Julian (January 25, 1879 Whangaroa-December 27, 1943 Hollywood) otherwise known as Thomas Percival Hayes was a New Zealand film director, actor, film producer and writer.
He began his career as a stage actor before moving to Australia and eventually settling in Hollywood in 1913. Julian became known for his work in the silent film era and directed several notable films, including the 1923 version of "The Hunchback of Notre Dame" starring Lon Chaney. He also directed the critically acclaimed film "The Phantom of the Opera" in 1925. In addition to his directing work, Julian also served as a writer and producer on a number of films throughout his career. Despite his success, Julian struggled with alcoholism and financial instability. He passed away in 1943 at the age of 64.
During his career, Julian was known for his perfectionism and attention to detail. He often clashed with studio executives and actors, including Lon Chaney, whom he directed in multiple films. Julian's reputation was also tarnished by the financial failure of his 1929 film "The Cat Creeps," which ultimately led to his departure from Hollywood. Julian's contributions to the film industry were recognized posthumously, with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1960. Despite his personal struggles, Julian's impact on the early days of Hollywood and the horror genre in particular endure to this day.
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Allan Holmes
Allan Holmes (January 25, 1845 Ballarat-April 9, 1909 Dunedin) was a New Zealand cricketer.
He played as a wicket-keeper and batsman in 14 first-class matches between 1875 and 1895. Holmes represented Otago in his domestic career and was known for his reliable glove work behind the stumps. He made his first-class debut in 1875-76 against Canterbury and played his last game at the age of 50 in 1895. In addition to cricket, Holmes was also a noted athlete and represented New Zealand in sprinting at the 1874 Australian Championships. Off the field, he worked as a carpenter and later became a successful contractor in Dunedin. Holmes passed away in 1909 at the age of 64.
Allan Holmes was born in Ballarat, Victoria, Australia in 1845. His family later moved to New Zealand, where he grew up and developed a keen interest in sports, particularly cricket and athletics. In addition to his cricketing career, Holmes also won several sprinting races, earning him a reputation as a versatile athlete.
Holmes made his mark on New Zealand cricket with his exceptional wicket-keeping skills, which earned him a regular spot in the Otago team. He was regarded as an agile and athletic keeper who had soft hands and sharp reflexes. He was also a solid batsman who could contribute valuable runs down the order.
Outside of cricket, Holmes worked as a carpenter and later started his own contracting business, which was highly successful. He was known for his strong work ethic and attention to detail, which helped him establish a reputation for quality workmanship.
Holmes remained involved in cricket throughout his life and was highly respected as a player and a mentor. He passed away in Dunedin in 1909 at the age of 64. He is remembered as one of the pioneers of New Zealand cricket and a true sportsman who dedicated his life to the game he loved.
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Neville Pickering
Neville Pickering (November 18, 1923-June 25, 1988) also known as Neville George Pickering was a New Zealand politician.
During his lifetime, Neville Pickering served as a member of Parliament in the New Zealand House of Representatives. He belonged to the National Party and was elected to the House of Representatives in 1957 as the member for the Gisborne constituency. Pickering continued to be re-elected for the same constituency till 1981, making him the longest-serving MP from that region. In addition to his political career, Neville Pickering was also involved in various business ventures and social service organizations. He was instrumental in setting up the Gisborne charitable trust to provide support to the needy and the underprivileged. Neville Pickering passed away in 1988 at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, entrepreneurship, and community service.
During his tenure in Parliament, Neville Pickering served as the chairman of several committees, including the Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering Committee and the Broadcasting Corporation Commercialisation Committee. He was also a passionate advocate for the conservation of New Zealand's natural resources and helped establish the Waipaoa Catchment Board to manage and protect the water resources in the Gisborne region. In recognition of his contributions to public service, Neville Pickering was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 1988. Prior to his political career, he served in the Royal New Zealand Air Force during World War II. Neville Pickering was married with four children and was a devoted family man.
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P. H. Matthews
P. H. Matthews (February 21, 1903 New Zealand-September 25, 1967 Takaka, New Zealand) a.k.a. Pressly Hemingway Matthews was a New Zealand politician and technician.
He served as a Member of Parliament for the Motueka electorate from 1946 to 1960, representing the New Zealand National Party. Prior to his political career, Matthews worked as a technician at Radio New Zealand and was involved in the development of early broadcasting technology. Matthews was also an avid ornithologist and photographer, and published several works on New Zealand birds. In recognition of his contributions to politics and broadcasting, he was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Coronation Medal in 1953. Matthews passed away in 1967 at the age of 64.
During his time as a Member of Parliament, P. H. Matthews served as the Chairman of the Broadcasting Committee and made significant contributions to the development of public broadcasting in New Zealand. He played a key role in the establishment of the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation in 1962, and was later appointed as its first Chairman. Matthews was known for his dedication to public service and his commitment to preserving the environment. In addition to his work as an ornithologist, he was involved in a number of conservation initiatives, including the preservation of native forests and the protection of endangered species. Matthews' legacy continues to be felt in New Zealand today, where he is remembered as a pioneering figure in the fields of broadcasting and conservation.
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William Smith
William Smith (March 9, 1881 Wellington-May 25, 1945 Wellington) was a New Zealand accountant and rugby player.
He played for the All Blacks, the national rugby team, between 1901 and 1905, making 27 appearances and scoring 10 tries. After his rugby career, Smith became a successful accountant, and also served as president of the Wellington Rugby Union from 1923 to 1926. He was awarded the OBE (Officer of the Order of the British Empire) in 1934 for his services to sport and accountancy. In addition to his professional and sporting achievements, Smith was also a noted philanthropist, and funded a number of scholarships and educational programs in New Zealand.
Born in Wellington, New Zealand, William Smith grew up playing rugby and showed exceptional talent in the sport. He made his debut for the All Blacks in 1901 at the age of 20 and quickly established himself as a key player in the team. He was known for his speed, agility, and strength on the field, and was a prolific try scorer.
Off the field, Smith pursued a career in accountancy, and became a partner in the firm of Simpson and Co. in Wellington. He was widely respected for his professionalism and expertise, and was known for his meticulous attention to detail. He also served as a member of the New Zealand Society of Accountants, and played an active role in promoting the profession.
Smith's dedication to rugby continued throughout his life, and he served as president of the Wellington Rugby Union from 1923 to 1926. He was an influential figure in New Zealand rugby, and played a key role in the development of the sport in the country.
In addition to his professional and sporting pursuits, Smith was also a generous philanthropist, and donated significant sums of money to support education and other charitable causes. He established a number of scholarships and bursaries, and funded the construction of several educational buildings.
William Smith passed away in Wellington in 1945, at the age of 64. He is remembered as an exceptional rugby player, a respected accountant, and a dedicated philanthropist who made a significant contribution to the development of his country.
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Paul Callaghan
Paul Callaghan (August 19, 1947 Whanganui-March 24, 2012 Wellington) was a New Zealand physicist and professor.
He was educated at Victoria University of Wellington and at the University of Oxford as a Rhodes scholar, receiving a DPhil in Physics. Callaghan was best known for his work in magnetic resonance imaging, and was awarded the Ampere Prize in 1991 and the Royal Society's Rutherford Medal in 2001 for his contributions to the field. He also played an active role in promoting science in New Zealand and was a prominent advocate for funding and support for research. In 2007, he was diagnosed with cancer and became an advocate for improving access and outcomes for cancer patients. He wrote several books, including "Wool to Weta: Transforming New Zealand's Culture and Economy" and "Hot Topics: Fishing for Answers in the Deep South". He passed away in 2012 at the age of 64.
Paul Callaghan was credited for pioneering a new scientific method called magnetic resonance elastography (MRE), which used MRI to measure the stiffness of tissues. He was appointed to the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2006, and was named New Zealander of the Year in 2011. In addition to his research, Callaghan was also a gifted public speaker, renowned for his ability to communicate complex scientific ideas in a clear and engaging manner. He was a regular commentator on science and technology issues in the media and was featured in numerous documentaries and radio programs. Callaghan's legacy continues to inspire and influence scientists around the world, and his contributions to the field of magnetic resonance imaging have had a transformative impact on medical research and diagnosis.
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