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The birth of a movement that divided NZ – and changed us forever
Essay
As New Zealand marks 40 years since the Springbok tour that changed everything, we republish this essay by Trevor Richards, founding chairperson of Hart – Halt All Racist Tours.
Originally published in 2019, on the 50th anniversary of the anti-apartheid group’s formation.
It has been said that if you can remember the 1960s, you weren’t really there. No one is sure who it was that first said this. Robin Williams, Pete Townsend and Timothy Leary among others have all been credited, but it was probably none of them. It is a nice line, conjuring up some of the more colourful aspects – the drugs, sex and rock’n’roll culture – for which the 60s are renowned.
A product of Wainuiomata College, she grew up in a sporting family but never thought about becoming an Olympian. “I led a sheltered life and I did not know much existed outside Wainuiomata. The hockey community within Wainuiomata were like my other family, so it was not until I got into the reps at 11 and had to attend training in Newtown that I appreciated the big world outside the valley.”
Rob Kitchin/Stuff
Niniwa Roberts celebrates after scoring for the Black Sticks against China in 2008. When she was 17, she found herself in a New Zealand Under-18 trial with no comprehension of what was at stake.
Former All Black Allan Hewson is worried rugby is suffering a “slow death’’. Which is why he and seven other ex-internationals, including four captains, have banded together to convince NZ Rugby to make urgent changes to save the game they love. Wellington businessman Douglas Catley, who is spearheading the campaign to seek an audience with the NZ Rugby board, has the backing of ex-All Blacks Ian Kirkpatrick, Alex Wyllie, Dave Loveridge, Stu Wilson, Andy Leslie, Earle Kirton, Mark Shaw and Hewson.
Cameron Spencer/Getty Images
While the All Blacks remain as popular as ever, a number of ex-internationals have grave concerns about the amateur arm of the game and want the NZ Rugby board to listen to their concerns.
Petone Wharf has suffered substantial damage from earthquakes in recent years. Mayor Campbell Barry said the wharf is clearly in poor condition and the council wants to know what the public think about its future. The work planned for 2032 includes removing the last 50 or so metres of the wharf, a large platform that is popular with fishermen and swimmers.
Hutt City Council/Supplied
A cross-section of a pile from Lower Hutt s Petone wharf. The wharf was closed on January 18 after being damaged by earthquakes in late December and early January. A detailed report being prepared by engineers will provide more up-to-date information on the extent of the work required and the likely cost. The council is expecting to get the report soon.