Pathetic Facts

New Zealand music stars who deceased at age 80

Here are 19 famous musicians from New Zealand died at 80:

Robin Cooke, Baron Cooke of Thorndon

Robin Cooke, Baron Cooke of Thorndon (May 9, 1926 Wellington-August 30, 2006) also known as Judge Robin Cooke, Baron Cooke of Thorndon was a New Zealand lawyer and judge.

He was the ninth Chief Justice of New Zealand, serving from 1986 to 1996. During his tenure, he played a significant role in shaping the country's legal system, particularly in the areas of indigenous rights and constitutional law.

Cooke was also known for his work on the international stage, serving as a judge of the International Court of Justice from 1996 to 2003. He was widely respected for his expertise in international law and his commitment to human rights.

In addition to his legal career, Cooke was also an accomplished musician and a passionate environmentalist. He was a keen supporter of the New Zealand Conservation Foundation, and he used his platform as Chief Justice to raise awareness of environmental issues.

Cooke was honored with numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, including a Knighthood in 1976 and a life peerage in 1996. He was widely regarded as one of New Zealand's most distinguished legal figures and a leading thinker in the field of international law.

William Fox

William Fox (September 2, 1812 South Shields-June 23, 1893 Auckland) was a New Zealand lawyer. He had one child, Ngataua Omahuru.

Fox was also a prominent politician, serving as the second Premier of New Zealand from 1856 to 1858, and again from 1861 to 1862. During his tenure, he oversaw the introduction of the New Zealand Constitution Act 1852, which established New Zealand as a self-governing colony. Additionally, Fox was known for his opposition to the death penalty and his efforts to promote education and economic development in New Zealand. After leaving politics, he returned to practicing law and was appointed to the Legislative Council, where he remained until his death in 1893.

Read more about William Fox on Wikipedia »

William Fitzherbert

William Fitzherbert (August 15, 1810 Dorset-February 6, 1891 Lower Hutt) was a New Zealand personality. He had one child, Henry Samuel Fitzherbert.

William Fitzherbert was a successful businessman and landowner in New Zealand. He was a member of the Legislative Council and later became the Speaker of the House of Representatives. Fitzherbert also played a key role in the development of the railway system in New Zealand. He was an avid sportsman and was one of the founding members of the Wellington Cricket Club. Fitzherbert was known for his philanthropy and helped establish several charitable organizations in the Wellington area. He was highly respected in the community and his legacy continues to be felt in New Zealand today.

Read more about William Fitzherbert on Wikipedia »

James Wilson

James Wilson (November 29, 1848 Hawick-May 3, 1929 Bulls) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a naturalist, ornithologist, and a photographer known for his pioneering work in wildlife conservation and photography. Wilson was one of the first people to photograph the iconic flightless bird, the kiwi, in its natural habitat. He also played a crucial role in establishing the first wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand, which would later become the Karori Wildlife Sanctuary, now known as Zealandia. In addition to his contributions to conservation, he worked as a government entomologist and was an expert in the study of insects. Wilson's legacy continues to inspire many in the field of conservation and wildlife photography.

Read more about James Wilson on Wikipedia »

Billy Stead

Billy Stead (September 18, 1877 Invercargill-July 21, 1958 Bluff) was a New Zealand personality.

Billy Stead was a multi-talented New Zealand personality who made significant contributions to several fields during his lifetime. He was a prominent rugby player who played internationally for the New Zealand team, known as the All Blacks, and helped them win their first ever Test series against the British Isles in 1904.

Aside from rugby, Stead was also a talented cricketer, playing for his province in both sports. Later in life, he transitioned into a successful career as a journalist, becoming the sports editor for the New Zealand Herald and the Auckland Star.

Stead was also involved in politics, serving as a member of the New Zealand parliament from 1935 to 1946. In 1953, he was appointed a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for his services to journalism and sport.

Throughout his life, Stead was a highly respected figure in New Zealand, and his contributions to both sports and journalism were widely recognized.

Read more about Billy Stead on Wikipedia »

Hugh Carleton

Hugh Carleton (July 3, 1810-July 14, 1890 London) was a New Zealand personality.

He was born in Liverpool, England and migrated to New Zealand in 1854. Carleton settled in Auckland where he became a journalist, writer, and historian. He is best known for his book "The Life of Henry Williams," which was published in 1874 and is considered a significant contribution to the history of New Zealand. Carleton also co-founded the Auckland Mechanics' Institute and was the first president of the New Zealand Society of Authors. In addition to his literary work, he was also a member of the Auckland Provincial Council and the Auckland City Council. Carleton passed away in London on July 14, 1890.

Read more about Hugh Carleton on Wikipedia »

Sir Charles Clifford, 1st Baronet

Sir Charles Clifford, 1st Baronet (January 1, 1813 England-February 27, 1893 London) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a politician, businessman, and philanthropist who played a significant role in the development of the country. Sir Charles served as the Colonial Treasurer, Minister of Defence, and was a member of the Legislative Council. He also played an active role in the establishment of the Bank of New Zealand and the University of Auckland. Sir Charles made significant contributions to the cultural and social life of New Zealand, he was a founding member of the Auckland Society, and served as President of the New Zealand Institute. He was knighted in 1862 and later created a baronet. Today, Sir Charles Clifford is remembered for his many contributions to New Zealand society and culture during his lifetime.

Thomas Bartley

Thomas Bartley (April 5, 1798-December 25, 1878 Auckland) was a New Zealand personality.

Born in Norfolk, England, Bartley arrived in New Zealand in 1841 aboard the Jane Gifford. He became a prominent Auckland businessman, operating a successful auctioneering business and investing in land and property. In 1853, he was elected to the Legislative Council, where he served until his retirement in 1874. Bartley was also a philanthropist and was involved in various charitable organizations, including the Auckland Society for the Protection of Women and Children. He passed away in Auckland in 1878 at the age of 80.

Read more about Thomas Bartley on Wikipedia »

George William Smith

George William Smith (September 20, 1874 Auckland-December 7, 1954 Oldham) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a rugby union player who represented the New Zealand national team, known as the All Blacks, in their inaugural test match against Australia in 1903. Smith also played for the Auckland and Manchester rugby clubs.

In addition to his sporting achievements, Smith was a prominent businessman and public figure. He served as the Mayor of Auckland from 1935 to 1941, and was heavily involved in philanthropic endeavors, particularly those benefiting the welfare of children.

Smith was made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 1935 for his services to the community, and he also held the title of Freeman of the City of Auckland.

Read more about George William Smith on Wikipedia »

Bill McLennan

Bill McLennan (June 5, 1927 West Coast-July 21, 2007 Auckland) was a New Zealand personality.

He was a television presenter, writer, radio broadcaster, and naturalist. McLennan was one of the first presenters of the popular nature show, "Wildlife in New Zealand," which ran for eight years. He was also instrumental in establishing the Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society of New Zealand. Additionally, McLennan wrote a number of books on the flora and fauna of New Zealand, including "Wildlife of the New Zealand Bush," which is regarded as a classic in its field. McLennan was recognized for his contributions to nature conservation in New Zealand and was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1985.

Read more about Bill McLennan on Wikipedia »

Martha Sarah Kahui Bragg

Martha Sarah Kahui Bragg (March 30, 1895 Stewart Island-May 26, 1975) was a New Zealand farmer.

She was born as Martha Sarah Kahui in Stewart Island, New Zealand, and was the daughter of a Māori father and a Scottish mother. In 1913, at the age of 18, she married Frank Bragg, a farmer, and together they went on to develop a highly successful farming operation. Martha was known for her expertise in breeding Romney and Corriedale sheep and importing new genetics to improve the quality of New Zealand's wool.

Beyond farming, Martha was also active in her community. She served on local school boards and was a member of the Women's Division of Federated Farmers, where she advocated for women's rights and education. She was also a supporter of the Māori Women's Welfare League, which focused on improving the social, economic, and educational status of Māori women and their families.

Martha Bragg's legacy in New Zealand still lives on today. In 1935, she became the first woman to be elected to the New Zealand Meat Board, and in 1964, she was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for her service to agriculture and her community.

Merekotia Amohau

Merekotia Amohau (April 16, 1898 Rotorua-December 30, 1978) was a New Zealand singer and composer.

Merekotia Amohau, also known as Mere Amohau, was of Māori descent and was born in Rotorua, New Zealand. She began singing as a child and soon became known for her beautiful voice. In 1924, she was invited to perform at a concert in Wellington, where she was noticed by composer Alfred Hill. Hill invited her to Sydney to perform and study music, and she became the first Māori student at the New South Wales State Conservatorium of Music.

Amohau went on to become a renowned soprano, known for her performances of Māori songs, as well as operatic and classical music. She also composed her own music, often drawing on traditional Māori melodies and themes in her works.

In addition to her musical career, Amohau was also involved in Māori cultural and political issues. She was a member of the Ngāti Whakaue tribe and was a strong advocate for Māori rights.

Amohau continued to perform and compose music throughout her life, and in 1977 she was awarded the Queen's Service Medal for her contributions to music and Māori culture. She passed away the following year at the age of 80.

Read more about Merekotia Amohau on Wikipedia »

Nathanael Chalmers

Nathanael Chalmers (August 22, 1830 Rothesay-December 2, 1910) was a New Zealand planter, politician, pastoralist, explorer and magistrate.

Chalmers immigrated to New Zealand in 1850 and became a planter in the Bay of Islands. He also worked as a magistrate and helped establish law and order in the region. In the 1860s, Chalmers served two terms in the New Zealand parliament as a representative of the Bay of Islands electorate.

In addition to his political career, Chalmers was also an accomplished explorer and pastoralist. He undertook several expeditions to map out previously unexplored areas of New Zealand, including the rugged terrain of the West Coast. Chalmers also owned a large sheep and cattle station in Canterbury.

Later in life, Chalmers continued to be involved in public life, serving as a justice of the peace and a member of the Canterbury Provincial Council. He was also a member of the New Zealand Philosophical Society and contributed to several of its publications. Nathanael Chalmers died in Christchurch in 1910 at the age of 80.

Read more about Nathanael Chalmers on Wikipedia »

James Walter Chapman-Taylor

James Walter Chapman-Taylor (June 24, 1878 London-October 25, 1958 Lower Hutt) was a New Zealand architect.

He is best known for his distinctive Arts and Crafts style houses which are now considered iconic examples of New Zealand architecture. Chapman-Taylor arrived in New Zealand with his family in 1883 and completed his schooling in Wellington. He began training as an architect in 1895 and set up his own practice in 1905. Over the course of his career, he designed over 80 houses and several other buildings, many of which can still be seen throughout the country. In addition to his architectural work, Chapman-Taylor was an avid photographer and poet, and he incorporated elements of these interests into his designs. His philosophy was to create homes that were in harmony with the natural environment and that also reflected the individuality and aspirations of their owners. Chapman-Taylor was a larger-than-life figure and known for his strong opinions and eccentricities. He remains a much-loved and influential figure in New Zealand architecture.

Samuel Frickleton

Samuel Frickleton (April 1, 1891 Slamannan-August 6, 1971 Wellington) was a New Zealand soldier.

He served in World War I as part of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, and later in World War II as a Major in the Middle East and Mediterranean regions. Frickleton was awarded the Military Cross for his service in Italy during World War II. In addition to his military career, Frickleton was also involved in politics, serving as a member of the New Zealand Parliament from 1946 to 1957. After retiring from politics, he worked as a farmer until his death in 1971.

Read more about Samuel Frickleton on Wikipedia »

Charles Frederick Newham

Charles Frederick Newham (June 21, 1880 Christchurch-July 11, 1960 Whanganui) was a New Zealand cinematographer and photographer.

He began his career taking photographs of local landmarks and events, eventually transitioning into cinema in the early 1900s. Newham worked as a cinematographer for various production companies and is credited as the first person to shoot a feature film in New Zealand, "Hinemoa" in 1914. He also worked on several other landmark New Zealand films, including "Rewi's Last Stand" (1925) and "The Birth of New Zealand" (1929). He retired from the film industry in the late 1930s, but continued to work as a professional photographer until his death. In addition to his work in film and photography, Newham was also a noted adventurer and sailor, having made numerous journeys across the Pacific Ocean aboard his yacht, the Wanderer.

Nina Catherine Muir

Nina Catherine Muir (October 20, 1900 Dunedin-June 9, 1981) was a New Zealand physician.

She was the first woman to graduate from the University of Otago with a degree in Medicine and the first woman in New Zealand to specialize in the field of obstetrics and gynecology. Nina Muir also served as a medical officer during World War II and later became the first woman obstetrician and gynecologist to be appointed a senior lecturer at the University of Otago. She was a strong advocate for women's health and played an instrumental role in advancing the medical profession within New Zealand. In recognition of her contributions, she was awarded the Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1974.

Read more about Nina Catherine Muir on Wikipedia »

Felix Kelly

Felix Kelly (February 3, 1914 Auckland-July 3, 1994 Devon) also known as Felix Runcie Kelly was a New Zealand graphic designer, interior designer and painter.

Throughout his career, Felix Kelly produced a vast range of work, from designing book covers and advertisements to creating sets for films and theatres. He also had a strong interest in architecture and incorporated this into his work as an interior designer. In 1947, he set up his own design firm in London, which would go on to work on projects for high-profile clients such as Harrods and Fortnum & Mason.

However, it was his paintings that gained him the most recognition. Kelly's style was highly unique, often depicting imaginary landscapes and interiors that blended elements of both realism and surrealism. He was greatly influenced by the work of Italian Renaissance artists, as well as the colours and textures he encountered during his travels in Italy, Spain and Morocco.

Kelly's paintings can be found in the collections of several prominent institutions, including the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. His work continues to be highly regarded and sought after by collectors around the world.

Read more about Felix Kelly on Wikipedia »

Arthur Hughes

Arthur Hughes (October 11, 1924 Auckland-June 20, 2005 North Shore) was a New Zealand rugby player, athlete and businessperson.

He played as a lock for the All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby team, and was part of the team that won the inaugural Rugby World Cup in 1987. Hughes also represented New Zealand in athletics, specializing in the shot put and discus events.

After retiring from sport, Hughes became a successful businessman, founding a company that specialized in sports equipment. He was awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to sport and business in 1996.

Hughes was also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the field of education. He established a scholarship program to support young athletes and donated generously to schools and colleges in New Zealand.

Read more about Arthur Hughes on Wikipedia »