World-changing New Zealanders
Featuring 40+ definitive short biographies of New Zealanders who have changed or benefitted the world in some way. Working from New Zealand and internationally, these scientists, artists, designers, inventors, warriors, and adventurers are inspiration for achievement. Please enjoy and be motivated.
Edmund Hillary
He explored places no man had gone before, conquered Everest and captured a world’s imagination. Yet where others would have been content to bask in their achievements, Sir Edmund Hillary began a lifetime…
Jean Batten
Jean Batten stood for adventure, daring and exploration. She was the manifestation of triumph and hope through the dark days of the depression. In 1934 she smashed the world record between England and Australia by six days…
Jack Lovelock
The first New Zealander to win Olympic gold, Jack Lovelock was an enigmatic achiever whose running style was 'artistic' in grace. His spectacular win at the 1936 Berlin Olympics began a rich history of achievement in New Zealand athletics …
Arthur Lydiard
Arthur Lydiard invented jogging - the method of building up physical fitness by gradually increasing stamina. Lydiard's methods trained New Zealand’s greatest track athletes, and helped propel New Zealand to the top of world middle-distance running…
Godfrey Bowen
New Zealand’s shearers are known throughout the world for their skill and toughness. Only one has been invited to Buckingham Palace, appeared on late night American television and been honoured by the leader of the Soviet Union...
