Pathetic Facts

New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 78

Here are 20 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 78:

Frank Sargeson

Frank Sargeson (March 21, 1903 Hamilton-March 1, 1982 Auckland) was a New Zealand writer.

He is considered one of the most influential writers in the New Zealand literary scene, particularly for his ability to capture the vernacular of everyday Kiwis. Sargeson was openly gay, and his stories often explore themes of homosexuality and desire. He was known for his spartan lifestyle, living for over 50 years in a small wooden house in Takapuna, Auckland, where he hosted aspiring writers in a makeshift loft space. Sargeson wrote numerous short stories and two novels over the course of his career. His work has been adapted for film, stage and radio. In 1981, he was awarded the Order of New Zealand, the highest honour in the country.

Sargeson was born Norris Frank Davey in Hamilton, New Zealand. He attended the University of Auckland, where he studied languages and literature. During his university days, he became friends with several other aspiring writers, including Janet Frame and John Mulgan. In 1928, Sargeson moved to London to pursue a career in writing. He returned to New Zealand in 1930 and worked as a teacher before devoting himself full-time to writing.

Sargeson's first published story, "Conversation with My Uncle," appeared in a literary magazine in 1935. He went on to write several collections of short stories, including A Man and His Wife (1940), That Summer and Other Stories (1950), and Collected Stories (1964). His two novels were Came a Hot Friday (1964) and Memoirs of a Peon (1972).

Sargeson was a mentor to many young writers, including Maurice Duggan, Kevin Ireland, and C. K. Stead. He was known for his generosity and his willingness to offer feedback and support to up-and-coming writers. The small wooden house in Takapuna where he lived and worked became a gathering place for the literary community, and many aspiring writers spent time there, sleeping in the loft and discussing their work with Sargeson.

Sargeson's work explores themes of New Zealand identity, sexuality, and the complexities of human relationships. His stories are often set in small, rural towns and depict the lives of working-class people. He has been called the "father of New Zealand literature" and his work is considered a touchstone of the country's literary tradition.

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Percy Thomson

Percy Thomson (April 5, 1884 Dunedin-April 5, 1962) was a New Zealand lawyer and solicitor.

He received his education at the University of Otago, where he excelled academically and was awarded a law degree. In 1911, he became a partner at the law firm Downie Stewart & Co, where he worked for over 50 years. Thomson made significant contributions to legal education in New Zealand, serving as a senior lecturer and then professor of law at the University of Otago. He was also heavily involved in politics, serving as a member of Parliament from 1928 to 1935. Thomson was known for his dedication to public service and his advocacy for justice reform. He was appointed to the bench in 1951 and became a District Court Judge, a position he held until his death in 1962.

During his time in Parliament, Percy Thomson was an active member of the Labour Party and was known for his passion for championing social justice, labour rights and human rights. He was a strong advocate for the rights of workers and was instrumental in enacting several labour laws, including the Workers' Compensation Act and the Public Service Act. In addition, he played an important role in the development of New Zealand's health and welfare system.

Apart from his work as a lawyer, academician and politician, Thomson was also actively involved in several community organizations, including the Dunedin Chamber of Commerce, the Otago Boys' High School and the Otago University Students' Association. He also served as the President of the New Zealand Law Society from 1949 to 1950.

Percy Thomson received several honors and awards for his contributions to the legal profession and public service, including a knighthood in 1956. He is widely regarded as one of New Zealand's most respected and influential legal practitioners, who made a significant impact on the country's legal and political landscape.

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George Forbes

George Forbes (March 12, 1869 Lyttelton-May 17, 1947 Cheviot) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a politician, journalist, and sportsman who served as the Mayor of Auckland from 1901 to 1903 and from 1906 to 1909. Forbes was also a Member of Parliament for multiple electorates between 1910 and 1935, belonging to the Reform Party and later the United Party. Besides politics, he was a prominent journalist and media owner who established the New Zealand Observer newspaper in 1907. In his early years, Forbes was a successful athlete who won several national and international cycling races. He was also renowned for his contributions to the Presbyterian Church and the Freemasons. During the World War I, he was involved in various patriotic and fundraising activities. Forbes was knighted in 1935 for his services to New Zealand.

In addition to his political and athletic pursuits, George Forbes was also a notable businessman and philanthropist. He established a successful engineering and construction company with his brother William, which worked on major projects such as the construction of the Auckland Harbour Bridge. Forbes was also a generous benefactor of various causes, including the establishment of scholarships for underprivileged students and the donation of land for the creation of public parks in Auckland. He was deeply committed to social justice and often advocated for policies that would benefit the working class and promote equality. Despite his many accomplishments, Forbes remained a humble and down-to-earth figure throughout his life, and was widely admired for his integrity and humility. Today, he is remembered as one of New Zealand's most influential and beloved leaders.

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William Hart-Smith

William Hart-Smith (November 23, 1911-April 15, 1990) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a writer, artist, and teacher who made significant contributions to New Zealand literature and art. Born in Wellington, Hart-Smith attended Victoria University before moving to England to study at the Royal Academy of Arts. He was a prolific writer, having published over 30 books of poetry, fiction, and non-fiction throughout his career. He also taught English and creative writing at various institutions, including the University of Auckland. In addition to his literary work, Hart-Smith was an accomplished artist and painter, and his work has been exhibited in galleries throughout New Zealand. He received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the arts, including the Order of the British Empire in 1987.

Hart-Smith's writing often drew inspiration from his experiences traveling and living in different parts of the world. He lived in England, Australia, and the United States before returning to New Zealand in 1960. His works explore a range of themes, including nature, love, and human relationships, and are characterized by vivid imagery and a strong sense of musicality. Some of his most notable works include the poetry collections "The Salamander in the Sun" and "Among the Iron Weed," as well as the novel "The Fig Tree." Hart-Smith was also a committed environmentalist and wrote extensively about ecological issues. His legacy in New Zealand literature and art continues to be celebrated today.

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Lindsay Daen

Lindsay Daen (April 7, 1923 Dunedin-April 24, 2001 Sarasota) was a New Zealand sculpture.

She graduated from the Dunedin School of Art in 1942, where she studied under the influential sculptor Francis Shurrock. In 1948, she received a New Zealand Government Art Scholarship and moved to London to further her studies at the Royal College of Art. Daen gained recognition in the 1950s and 1960s for her abstract sculptures made of wood, stone, and metal, often in large scale for public spaces. In the 1970s, she shifted her focus to creating more figurative works, particularly portraits. Throughout her career, she exhibited widely in both New Zealand and internationally, including at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. She was awarded the Order of New Zealand in 1996 in recognition of her contributions to the arts.

Daen's works can be found in public collections around the world, including the Tate Gallery in London, the National Gallery of Australia, and the Dunedin Public Art Gallery in New Zealand. In addition to her artworks, Daen was also known for her advocacy work for the arts. She was a founding member of the New Zealand Society of Sculptors and Associates and served on various boards and committees promoting and supporting the arts. Daen's legacy continues to inspire and influence sculptors in New Zealand and around the world.

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William Goosman

William Goosman (July 2, 1890-April 5, 1969) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a professional wrestler and strongman who became known by the stage name "Lofty" Goosman. He was renowned for his incredible strength, and was able to lift well over 500 pounds. Goosman was also a skilled wrestler, and won numerous championships throughout his career. Despite his imposing size and strength, he was known for his friendly demeanor and was widely regarded as a beloved figure in the New Zealand sports scene.

In addition to his wrestling career, Goosman was also a successful businessman. He owned a popular restaurant in Auckland, which attracted many of his fellow athletes and celebrities. He also appeared in several films and TV shows as an actor, often playing roles that showcased his strength and athleticism. Goosman was a true pioneer in the world of professional wrestling, and his legacy continues to inspire athletes and entertainers to this day. After his passing in 1969, he was posthumously inducted into the New Zealand Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame.

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Arthur Sexton

Arthur Sexton (April 5, 1892-April 5, 1970) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a well-known poet, essayist, and critic, who contributed immensely to the development of New Zealand's literature. Sexton's early life was marked by poverty and hardships, but his love for literature inspired him to pursue a career in writing. His first book of poetry, "The Garden of Adonis," was published in 1932 and was received with critical acclaim. Sexton's work often explored themes related to nature, landscape, and identity, and his writing was known for its elegant and lyrical style.

Apart from his literary achievements, Sexton was also a significant political figure in New Zealand. He was a member of the New Zealand Labour Party, and his left-leaning views often reflected in his writing. Sexton was an advocate for New Zealand's independence and cultural identity and was instrumental in the formation of the New Zealand Society of Authors. His contributions to New Zealand's literary and intellectual landscape continue to be celebrated and revered to this day.

Despite not receiving formal education beyond primary school, Arthur Sexton was a self-taught scholar and avid reader. He was heavily influenced by the works of William Shakespeare and John Keats, among others. Sexton went on to publish over a dozen books of poetry and prose, including "The Mountains and Other Poems" and "Landfall in Unknown Seas."

In addition to his writing career, Sexton worked as a journalist and editor for several newspapers, including the Christchurch "Sun" and the Auckland "Star." He also served as a radio broadcaster for the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation.

Throughout his life, Sexton was a passionate advocate for social justice and human rights. He spoke out against the mistreatment of indigenous Maori people and was a staunch opponent of the Vietnam War.

In recognition of his contributions to New Zealand's cultural and political landscape, Sexton was awarded the Hubert Church Memorial Award for Poetry and the Robert Burns Fellowship. He died on his 78th birthday, leaving behind a legacy as one of New Zealand's greatest literary figures.

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Percy Benjamin Allen

Percy Benjamin Allen (June 30, 1913-April 5, 1992) was a New Zealand personality.

He was best known for his work as a television host and producer. Allen began his career in broadcasting in the late 1940s as a radio announcer, before moving on to television in the 1960s. He was the original presenter of the popular New Zealand television show, "Beauty and the Beast". Allen was known for his charismatic on-screen presence and his ability to draw confessions from his interviewees.

Besides his work in broadcasting, Allen was also known for his love of horses and horse racing. He was a regular fixture at the famous Ellerslie Racecourse in Auckland, where he could often be found mingling with fellow racegoers and promoting the sport.

Allen was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 1983 for his services to broadcasting, as well as for his contribution to the racing industry. He passed away in 1992, leaving behind a legacy as one of New Zealand's most beloved television personalities.

In addition to his work as a television host, Percy Benjamin Allen was also a prolific producer. He produced a number of successful television programs, including the popular game show "It's in the Bag". Allen's work in broadcasting helped to shape the television industry in New Zealand, which was still in its infancy when he first began his career. He was a pioneer in the use of live television, and was responsible for some of the earliest live broadcasts in the country. Outside of his professional life, Allen was an accomplished horseman and owner of racehorses. He was also a skilled sailor and was known to spend hours out on the water. In recognition of his contribution to New Zealand culture, he was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit in 1990, just two years before his death. Despite his passing, Percy Benjamin Allen is remembered as a trailblazer in the world of New Zealand broadcasting, and a charismatic and beloved personality whose impact is still felt today.

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William Nosworthy

William Nosworthy (October 18, 1867 Christchurch-September 26, 1946 Ashburton) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a notable businessman, philanthropist and socialite during his time. Nosworthy played a crucial role in developing Rugby Union in New Zealand and was the President of the New Zealand Rugby Football Union from 1924 to 1932. In addition to his contribution to sports, he had interests in various other fields of politics and agriculture. William Nosworthy was awarded a knighthood in 1935 for his services to his country. In his later years, he became a generous philanthropist and made significant donations to various charitable institutions.

Nosworthy was born on October 18, 1867, in Christchurch, New Zealand, and grew up in a family of successful and prominent businessmen. From a young age, he showed a keen interest in sports, particularly Rugby Union, which would go on to feature heavily in his life. He studied at Canterbury College (now the University of Canterbury) and graduated with a degree in law in 1890. He began his career as a lawyer but soon turned his attention to business, founding the successful firm, Nosworthy and Co., which dealt in agricultural machinery, wool, and grain.

As a prominent figure in the local community, Nosworthy took an active interest in politics and was involved with the New Zealand Liberal Party for many years. His interest in agriculture led him to serve on multiple agricultural boards and committees, and he was a strong advocate for rural New Zealand.

Nosworthy's greatest contribution, however, was to sport. He became involved with Rugby Union in the early 1900s and quickly rose through the ranks. He was appointed to the board of the Canterbury Rugby Football Union in 1905 and went on to become its President. In 1924, he was elected as President of the New Zealand Rugby Football Union, a position he held for eight years. During this time, he played a crucial role in developing the sport in New Zealand, helping to establish the international Rugby Board and leading negotiations for the first-ever All Blacks tour of South Africa.

As well as his impressive achievements in the world of sports and business, Nosworthy was a generous philanthropist in his later years. He made significant donations to various charitable institutions, including hospitals, schools, and cultural organizations, and was known for his kindness and compassion.

William Nosworthy passed away on September 26, 1946, in Ashburton, New Zealand, at the age of 78. He is remembered as a highly respected and influential figure in the history of New Zealand, who made a significant contribution to the development of Rugby Union in the country, as well as to politics, agriculture, and philanthropy.

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Ian Cromb

Ian Cromb (June 25, 1905-March 6, 1984) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a writer, broadcaster and music critic, best known for his work as a radio personality on the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation. Cromb began his career as a journalist, writing for The New Zealand Herald and The Christchurch Press. He later became a music critic and was a regular contributor to The Listener, a New Zealand arts and culture magazine. In 1951, Cromb joined the New Zealand Broadcasting Corporation, where he hosted a variety of radio programs, including music shows and talk shows, over a span of three decades. Cromb was also a prolific writer, and his publications include biographies of New Zealand musicians Douglas Lilburn and Alfred Hill. He was awarded the OBE in 1982 for his contributions to New Zealand broadcasting and culture.

Cromb's love for music was evident throughout his life. He was a founding member and president of the New Zealand National Youth Orchestra and also served on the board of the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra. In addition to his work in broadcasting and journalism, Cromb was a respected music historian, and his book "The First Fifty Years: A History of the New Zealand National Orchestra 1946-1996" is still considered a seminal work on the subject. His legacy continues to be celebrated in New Zealand culture, and the Ian Cromb Musical Trust was established in his honor to provide support for young musicians.

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Augusta Wallace

Augusta Wallace (October 11, 1929-April 12, 2008) was a New Zealand personality.

She was best known for her long-standing contribution to the fashion industry as a fashion journalist, stylist, and commentator. Augusta Wallace started her career in fashion in the 1960s, working in a variety of roles in the industry. She was the founder and editor of New Zealand's first high-fashion magazine, Chant magazine, and was a regular contributor to various publications. Wallace was also a television presenter, hosting her own show about fashion and style, which earned her a loyal following. Throughout her career, she was known for her impeccable style, keen eye for trends, and witty commentary on the industry. Augusta Wallace was a pioneer in New Zealand's fashion scene and left an indelible mark on the industry.

She was also a mentor and inspiration to many young designers and fashion enthusiasts. Wallace was actively involved in various fashion organizations, including the New Zealand Fashion Council, where she served as a board member. Her contributions to the industry were recognized with numerous awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award from the New Zealand Fashion Week in 2007. Apart from her work in the fashion industry, Augusta Wallace was also a passionate advocate for various social causes, including cancer research and the promotion of mental health awareness. She passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence the fashion industry in New Zealand and beyond.

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Norman Harold Moss

Norman Harold Moss (April 5, 1896 Dunedin-April 5, 1974 Oakura) was a New Zealand solicitor.

Moss was not only a solicitor but also a prominent politician who served as a member of parliament for the National Party from 1943 to 1957. During his political career, he held several important positions including Minister of Justice, Attorney-General, and Minister of Industries and Commerce. Before entering politics, he served in World War I as a lieutenant in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, where he was awarded the Military Cross for his bravery on the battlefield. In addition to his professional and political achievements, Moss was also a keen sportsman, particularly in tennis and rugby. He was a founding member of the New Zealand Law Society and has been recognized for his contributions to the legal profession by being appointed Queen's Counsel in 1957.

Moss was born into a family of lawyers with his father and grandfather both being well-known practitioners in New Zealand. After completing his education, he joined his father's law firm and became a solicitor in 1920. His legal expertise and experience in the military made him a respected figure in his community, and he was later appointed a Justice of the Peace.

Throughout his political career, Moss was known for his conservative views and strong advocacy for law and order. He was instrumental in implementing major changes to the New Zealand justice system, including the introduction of the Legal Aid Act and the Criminal Justice Amendment Act. Moss was also responsible for introducing amendments to the Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act, which helped streamline disputes between employers and workers in the country.

Moss was a prolific writer and contributed regularly to legal journals and publications, sharing his insights and knowledge with others. In addition to his professional accomplishments, Moss was also a devoted family man and philanthropist. He supported numerous charities and organizations throughout his life and was recognized for his contributions with the Companion of the Order of St. Michael and St. George in 1957.

Today, Moss is remembered as one of New Zealand's most accomplished legal and political figures, whose contributions to his country have had a lasting impact on its justice system and society as a whole.

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Peter Randall Johnson

Peter Randall Johnson (August 5, 1880 Wellington-July 1, 1959 Sidmouth) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a rugby union player who played for the All Blacks, representing his country in six test matches between 1904 and 1908. After retiring from rugby, Johnson became a successful businessman, owning a motor vehicle dealership and serving on the board of several companies. He was also involved in local politics, serving as a councillor in the Wellington City Council from 1929 to 1950. In 1951, Johnson was appointed to the Legislative Council, serving until it was abolished in 1950. Throughout his life, Johnson was a keen supporter of the arts, and was involved in several cultural organizations in New Zealand.

Johnson was born in Wellington, New Zealand in 1880, the son of a successful businessman. He attended Wellington College where he developed a passion for rugby. Johnson played his first match for the All Blacks in 1904 and quickly established himself as a key member of the team. He is best known for his performance in the 1905-1906 All Blacks tour of the British Isles, France, and North America, which is widely considered to be one of the greatest rugby tours in history.

After retiring from rugby, Johnson went into business, opening a motor vehicle dealership in Wellington. He quickly established a reputation as a shrewd businessman and was soon serving on the boards of several companies. Throughout his career, he remained a supporter of rugby, and was involved in the administration of the sport in New Zealand.

Despite his success in business, Johnson remained active in politics and public service. He was elected to the Wellington City Council in 1929, where he served until 1950. During this time, he played a key role in shaping the city's development, and was instrumental in the construction of several major infrastructure projects.

In recognition of his contributions to public life, Johnson was appointed to the Legislative Council in 1951. He served in this role until the Council was abolished in 1950. Throughout his life, Johnson was also a passionate supporter of the arts, and was involved in several cultural organizations in New Zealand.

Peter Randall Johnson passed away on July 1, 1959, in Sidmouth, New Zealand, at the age of 78. Despite his passing, he remains a revered figure in New Zealand rugby and is remembered as one of the country's greatest sportsmen and businessmen.

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Rex Challies

Rex Challies (September 15, 1924 Nelson-August 9, 2003) was a New Zealand personality.

He gained national attention as the presenter of the popular television show "Beauty and the Beast" which ran for 12 years from 1982-1996. Prior to this, he worked in radio as a producer and announcer, and also had a career in advertising. Challies was known for his quick wit, charm, and ability to put his guests at ease on his show. He was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1988 for services to broadcasting. Outside of his career, Challies was a keen sailor and enjoyed spending time on his yacht. He passed away in 2003 at the age of 78.

In addition to hosting "Beauty and the Beast," Rex Challies was also well-known for his work on various other television programs such as "Spot On," "The Early Bird Show," and "Home And Family." He was highly respected in the New Zealand entertainment industry and was known for his professionalism and kindness towards his colleagues. Challies also had a strong interest in theatre and was a board member of the Court Theatre in Christchurch. He was married to his wife, Robyn, for over 50 years and the couple had four children together. In his later years, Challies was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, which ultimately led to his passing. He is remembered as a beloved New Zealand icon and a pioneer in the country's broadcasting industry.

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Johnny Hanks

Johnny Hanks (December 6, 1934 Auckland-March 3, 2013) a.k.a. Ramon John Hanks was a New Zealand boxing coach and professional boxer.

He was a well-known figure in the boxing world, having trained and coached many successful boxers such as David Tua and Maselino Masoe. Johnny Hanks, himself, was an accomplished professional boxer with a record of 24 wins and 4 losses. He was also a former New Zealand Light Heavyweight Champion, and a Middleweight title challenger, having fought illustrious boxers such as Roy Heffernan and Pat O'Connor. Hanks was known for his tough training methods and for pushing his boxers to the limit. He was inducted into the New Zealand Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006 for his contribution to the sport.

In addition to his achievements in boxing, Johnny Hanks was also recognized for his contribution to his local community. He worked as a mentor for at-risk youth and was a motivational speaker for young people. Hanks was described by those who knew him as a humble and kind-hearted person who was always willing to lend a helping hand. He was deeply respected by his peers in the boxing community and was mourned by many after his passing in 2013. Today, his legacy lives on through the many boxers he trained and through his contributions to the sport of boxing in New Zealand.

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Arthur Kelly

Arthur Kelly (December 24, 1886 Petone-April 5, 1965 Oldham) was a New Zealand personality.

He started his career as a rugby union player and went on to become one of the most successful coaches of the All Blacks. He coached the team during their famous Black Tour of 1924-25, which saw them beat all of the Home Nations in the United Kingdom, as well as France and Canada. Kelly was also a prominent sports journalist, working for the New Zealand Herald and the New Zealand Observer, and he played an important role in the establishment of the New Zealand Rugby Union Players' Association. In 1961, he was awarded the OBE for services to sports journalism and rugby coaching.

Kelly was known for his strict approach to coaching and his innovative style of play. He was a proponent of the "scrum machine," an early precursor to the modern scrum sled used in rugby training today. After retiring from coaching, Kelly worked as a sports commentator and continued to be involved in rugby administration. He was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1990, and the Arthur W. Kelly Memorial Stand at McLean Park in Napier is named in his honour.

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Len Lye

Len Lye (June 5, 1901 Christchurch-May 15, 1980 Warwick) also known as Leonard Charles Huia Lye was a New Zealand film director, artist, screenwriter, film producer, painter, sculptor, writer and visual artist. He had two children, Bix Lye and Yancy Ning Lou Lye.

Lye initially trained as a painter, but soon turned to filmmaking and became known for his experimental films, which often combined abstract images with music. He also worked extensively with kinetic sculpture, creating works that moved and made noise. After moving to the United States in the 1940s, Lye continued to make films and sculptures that were highly influential in the field of experimental art. In addition to his work in the arts, Lye was also an advocate for pacifism and other social and political causes. His legacy continues to be celebrated in New Zealand, where the Len Lye Foundation works to preserve his art and promote his vision.

Lye's interest in filmmaking began in the 1920s when he was living in London. He produced his first film, Tusalava, in 1929, and it remains one of his most famous works. Lye's films were known for their abstract imagery and use of unconventional techniques, such as cameraless animation. Some of his other notable works include Rainbow Dance (1936), Trade Tattoo (1937), and Free Radicals (1958).

In addition to his filmmaking and sculpture work, Lye was also a prolific writer. He published several books, including a memoir titled "Len Lye: A Biography," and he wrote extensively about his artistic and philosophical beliefs. Lye's writings often reflected his interest in pacifism and his opposition to war and violence.

Throughout his career, Lye remained dedicated to his vision of creating art that was accessible and relevant to a wide audience. He often spoke out against elitism in the arts, and he believed that art should be a part of everyday life. Lye's contributions to the world of experimental art continue to be celebrated today, and his innovative techniques and ideas have influenced generations of artists.

Harold Gillies

Harold Gillies (June 17, 1882 Dunedin-September 10, 1960) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a pioneering plastic surgeon and is often referred to as the "father of modern plastic surgery". Gillies is known for his contributions to the advancement of reconstructive surgery techniques, particularly for soldiers who suffered severe facial injuries during World War I. He developed numerous surgical methods and was responsible for training many surgeons in these techniques. After the war, he continued his work in plastic surgery and became the first professor of plastic surgery in the United Kingdom. Gillies was a visionary in his field and his legacy lives on in the many lives he improved through his pioneering work.

Gillies was born in Dunedin, New Zealand and went on to study medicine at the University of Otago. In 1905, he moved to England where he worked as a surgeon at various hospitals before serving as a military surgeon during World War I. It was during this time that he was confronted with the widespread and devastating facial injuries suffered by soldiers. Gillies was deeply affected by the suffering he witnessed and resolved to find a way to help those who had been disfigured.

Gillies set up a dedicated ward for plastic surgery at the Cambridge Military Hospital in Aldershot, where he developed innovative techniques to reconstruct facial features. He worked tirelessly to develop skin grafting techniques, and by doing so, changed the field of surgery forever. Due to his efforts, thousands of soldiers were able to regain their appearance and, often, their ability to function in society.

After the war, Gillies continued his work in advancing plastic surgery. He established the UK's first plastic surgery unit at the Queen Mary's Hospital in London and was appointed as the first Professor of Plastic Surgery in 1956. During his career, Gillies authored numerous papers and books on plastic surgery, and trained many other surgeons in the field.

Gillies was knighted in 1930 for his contributions to medicine, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of plastic surgeons around the world. Today, the Harold Gillies Plastic Surgery Training Fellowship is awarded to deserving surgeons who seek to continue his pioneering work.

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Airini Nga Roimata Grennell

Airini Nga Roimata Grennell (February 11, 1910 Waitangi-December 8, 1988) was a New Zealand singer, pianist and broadcaster.

She was of Ngāti Kahungunu, Taranaki and Ngāi Tahu descent and first gained national attention as a radio singer in the 1930s, using the stage name Rini Grennell. She went on to become a pianist on radio and to provide music for films. In the 1950s she became one of the first Māori women to host her own television programme, 'Rini's Entertainers', which ran for two years. After leaving television in the 1960s, Grennell continued to be active as a performer and teacher, promoting the Māori language and culture through her music. In recognition of her contributions to music and the community, she was awarded the Queen's Service Medal in 1985.

In addition to her work in music and broadcasting, Airini Grennell was also involved in promoting social and political causes. She was a member of the New Zealand Labour Party and campaigned for women's rights and Māori land issues. In the 1970s, she served as a member of the Māori Council, which advised the New Zealand government on Māori issues. Grennell was also a passionate advocate for the Māori language and worked to promote its use and preservation. She recorded a number of Māori-language songs and was involved in the establishment of a Māori-language school in Auckland. Today, Grennell is remembered as a trailblazer for Māori women in the entertainment industry and a dedicated advocate for Māori culture and people.

Vincent Aspey

Vincent Aspey (January 5, 1909 Hindley-April 18, 1987 Raumati) was a New Zealand violinist.

Vincent Aspey was renowned for his virtuosic and expressive playing style, which earned him a reputation as one of the leading violinists of his time. He began his musical career at a young age and soon emerged as a prodigy, giving his first public performance at the age of 8. Aspey went on to study at the Royal College of Music in London, where he was a pupil of the famous violin teacher, Frederick Grinke.

After completing his studies, Aspey returned to New Zealand and quickly established himself as one of the country's foremost musical talents. He performed extensively throughout New Zealand and also made several trips overseas, including to Australia, the UK, and the USA.

Aspey was also a passionate music educator and taught at a number of prestigious institutions, including the New Zealand School of Music and Victoria University of Wellington. He was known for his innovative and effective teaching methods, which inspired countless aspiring musicians over the years.

Throughout his career, Vincent Aspey remained deeply committed to promoting classical music in New Zealand and was widely regarded as a national treasure. His legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of talented musicians.

Aspey was also a prolific recording artist, having recorded numerous albums and singles throughout his career. His recordings were highly acclaimed for their technical precision and emotional depth, and many continue to be revered as masterworks of the classical repertoire.

In addition to his contributions to the world of classical music, Aspey was also a dedicated philanthropist and community leader. He was a passionate advocate for the arts and worked tirelessly to promote music education and access to the arts for all New Zealanders.

Vincent Aspey's many achievements were recognized with numerous awards and honors over the course of his life, including a knighthood in 1975. He was also named a Companion of the Order of Australia in 1985 in recognition of his contributions to the Australian music scene.

Despite his many accolades, Vincent Aspey remained humble and deeply committed to his art until the end of his life. He passed away in 1987 at the age of 78, leaving behind a rich legacy of musical excellence and a profound impact on the classical music communities of New Zealand and beyond.

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