Booklet published by the Foxton Historical Society and made available Labour Weekend 1969 when the group celebrated a century of flaxmilling in Foxton. The booklet was written by the following contributors - I.R. Matheson, C.M. Thompson, and A.N. (Tony) Hunt. The booklet includes a map showing sites of flaxmills and hemp stores. Included are images reproduced from glass plates. Included also is material from the Manawatū Herald newspaper.

Foxton's first flaxmiller was Charles James Pownall (1819-1888), who opened his mill C.J. Pownall & Co in 1869 on land between Harbour Street and Johnston Street. It was followed by about 14 others. Names of the Foxton flaxmills included Paretao, Star (later Ida), Whitanui Ltd, Huia Flaxmilling Co. Ltd, Rough and Co. Ltd, Emu, Awa, Kowhai, Foxton, Ora, Whakapai and mills operated by John Rutherford, John Anderson, and N.Z Woolpack and Textiles Ltd.

I.R. Matheson writes that the history of Foxton's flaxmilling industry has been characterised by instability, with periods of prosperity followed by periods of depression. By 1969, flaxmilling was no longer the principal activity in Foxton.

This first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

"The hearse passes through a guard of honour at the airport."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 3rd September 1974.

"Heads bow in grief and respect as the first of thousands begin to file around the Prime Minister's coffin in Parliament Buildings."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 3rd September 1974.

"For the most part, mourners stand silent, casting a lingering look at the casket covered with Kiwi feathered cloak, the New Zealand flag and native flora placed by Maori elders, symbolising sorrow and deep respect. In front of the casket is a recent portrait of Norman Eric Kirk, father of five and for 21 months father of the nation. A black sash crosses the picture. Four members of the armed services stand at the corners of the casket, with black arm bands and heads bowed over down turned rifles."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"Hundreds wept in the rain, and thousands more bowed their heads as Mr Kirk's casket was borne from Parliament Buildings to St Paul's Cathedral, just a short distance away." ... "Cabinet Ministers, who had lifted the casket from the honoured position in the Parliament's foyer to the top of the steps, flanked the casket as it slowly descended to the waiting hearse." A police party of eight carried it down, while the chairman of committees, Mr R. L. Bailey, walked behind.

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

"A police party, flanked by cabinet ministers, carries the casket" ... to a waiting hearse to travel ... "from Parliament to St Paul's Cathedral."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

"The hearse about to enter the Air Force Hercules which carried the casket from the Capital to Christchurch."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

These unpublished images were taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"Papua New Guinea cheif minister, Mr Michael Somare" ... "with his wife, was greeted by Minister of Maori Affairs, Mr Rata. "This is a very, very sad occasion for us and other Pacific leaders to be suddenly flying south for the funeral of a man held in such high esteem by us. He has brought the Pacific Islands closer together than possibly any other leader and has cast a new light on the future," Mr Somare said."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

"Maori elder of the Waikato tribe, Kohe Crown and Mr Muldoon step out of St Paul's Cathedral"

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"The Australian Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam at Wellington airport after his arrival last night." ... "He was a very dear and respected friend'" he said as he was whisked through the rain from the terminal to a waiting limousine." ... "The relationship between Australia and New Zealand are so close that we share the grief of New Zealand."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"The Duke of Edinburgh pays his last respects with a wreath laid by the RSA's Dominion President Mr W. D. Leuchats."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

Text about Mrs Kirk at her husband's funeral was published in articles of The Manawatū Evening Standard from her arrival on the 4th of September until her departure on the 5th of September.

"The widow of the Prime Minister and mother of five, Mrs Ruth Kirk, walked through the rain up the 35 steps to the foyer of parliament last night and took a lingering look at the flag-draped casket. It was her first appearance in public since her husband's death on Saturday night. Mrs Kirk appeared well although visibly moved. She stood before the casket for three minutes before moving away. She was accompanied by The Member of parliament for Palmerston North and Minister of Overseas Trade, Mr Walding. Also in the cortege were Mrs Kirk's elder daughter, Mrs Margaret Thompson, her daughter-in-law, Mrs LynnKirk and her housekeeper Miss Margaret Farrelly. Mrs Kirk came to Parliament after attending a 5 p.m. Roman Catholic memorial service at the Basilica in Hill Street near Parliament. About 3000 attended the service." ...

"Mrs Ruth Kirk and members of her family arrived, Mrs Kirk looked composed as she was met by the Dean of Wellington, the Rev. W Hurst. She stood outside for several seconds before entering St Paul's on the arm of one of her sons." ...

"Prince Charles sat at the front of the cathedral with the Govenor-General Sir Denis Blundell and Lady Blundell. Near him sat Mrs Kirk with her youngest daughter Robyn, and other members of the family. Throughout the service Mrs Kirk was composed and serene as she comforted Robyn." ...

"Mrs Kirk leaves the drenched capital for Christchurch and then Waimate, where her husband was to be buried this afternoon close to the plot of his mother and father."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

Text about Prince Charles' attendance was published in articles of The Manawatū Evening Standard from 2 September and ended with his departure on 5 September 1974.

"Prince Charles will represent the Queen at the funeral of the Prime Minister, Norman Kirk." ... "Prince Charles, visiting dignitaries and members of the diplomatic corps had arrived in a steady stream." ... "Prince Charles wearing the dress uniform of the Royal Navy walked into the cathedral looking serious." ... "Prince Charles sat at the front of the cathedral with the Govenor-General Sir Denis Blundell and Lady Blundell. Near him sat Mrs Kirk with her youngest daughter Robyn, and other members of the family." ... "Politicians and their wives sat behind prince Charles." ... "Prince Charles left Wellington Airport by Royal Air Force VC10 late last night to return to Britain."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

These unpublished images were taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

"...overseas dignitaries who attended Mr Kirk's funeral will have left by the end of the week. Most left today." ... "Others who left yesterday included Canada's representative, Mr R. J. Perrault, leader of the Government in the Senate, the Prime Minister of Fiji, Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara, former Japanese Foreign Minister Mr Zentaro Kosaka, Mr Edward Short, Lord President of the Privy Council and leader of Britain's House of Commons, and Hotswana's woman High Commissioner in London, Mrs G. Chiepe. Mr Michael Somare, Chief Minister of Papua-New Guinea, Prince Tu'ipelehake, Prime Minister of Tonga and the United States Representative, Mr P. J. Breannan America's Secretary of Labour, left today."

It is likely the cars photographed at the Wellington Airport were to transport VIPs.

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"A man signs one of five books of remembrance in the foyer of the House."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"Maori elder Rupi Wawatai, representing the Mahaki tribe of Gisborne on the steps of Parliament today."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 3rd September 1974.

"Until 11 last night, the pilgrimage walked on through light rain up the Hill to Parliament, in uncertain silence. Again at dawn today it continued and the number of ordinary citizens who filed past the Labour leader's casket in homage swelled to thousands."

On the 4th of September it was reported, "The stream of people was its heaviest last night in spite of an hour-long wait in the rain. It is estimated that about 1000 people an hour were signing the five books of remembrance at the peoples' exit through the basement. Mourners of all ages, race and creed have paid homage to the late Prime Minister, from the youngest baby to nonagenarians."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this set was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and was published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

An article on the 4th of September read, "Inside St Paul's the choir started "The Lord is my Shepherd" - and the crowd which by now packed the cathedral grounds was quiet. Heavy rain began falling shortly after the service began. The large crowd outside huddled under umbrellas, but some just stood bare-headed."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"The skirl of Wally Gordon's bagpipes playing a lament wafted through the rooms of Parliament last night. With the consent of the late Prime Minister's son Raymond, the ageing Scott who played at Peter Fraser's funeral gave his all. "It is a tragic loss," said the piper who for many years in his working life fitted the Prime Minister with suits. "A fine stature of a man.""

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"By day and night they came. Mourners wait in the rain to pay their last respects."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green and published in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974. The text below appeared in the newspaper the previous day.

"Hammers still pound and a crane rumbles on the Beehive construction, next door. But conversation among the workers, the scurrying housewives and the more dapperly dressed reverts to the Hill and the question. Who will fill the sudden vacuum left by the 29th Prime Minister?"

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This image was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 3rd September 1974.

"Kirk's State funeral will be on TV. The NZBC is to carry live television and radio coverage of the state funeral for Mr Norman Kirk tomorrow and his burial at Waimate on Thursday." ... "Details of the coverage were announced by the Director-General of the NZBC, Mr L. Sceats. Tomorrow network television and the national radio programme will start a special programme at 10.40 a.m. and will follow the movement of the casket from Parliament Buildings to St Paul's Cathedral in Wellington."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green for a story in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 5th September 1974.

"Bikies," once the late Prime Minister's opponents, went to the capital and paid homage to a man that one motor cyclist described as "big-hearted and strong in his convictions." One Cyclist said: "We met our match, and we grew to have a lot of respect for Big Norm." Mr Kirk had made a pre-election pledge to break up large assemblies of motor cyclists at a time when there were many violent outbursts in centres throughout New Zealand." ... "The Black Power gang of motor cyclists joined the pilgrimage to the casket on the Hill and laid the most prized possession - leather jacket with the "Black Power" patch sewed on the back. After a brief debate at the back of Parliament with certain dignitaries, the bikie symbol of sorrow was permitted to go with the more orthodox wreaths to St Paul's Cathedral."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This image was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

The first image in this pair was taken by staff photographer Phil Green, for a story that ran in The Manawatū Evening Standard on 4th September 1974.

"The coffin was piled high with flowers and karaka branches."

Norman Kirk was the 29th Prime Minister of Aotearoa New Zealand. Leader of the Labour Party since 1965, he became Prime Minister in 1972. Affectionately known as “Big Norm,” his popularity, commanding presence, and commitment to government earned him respect throughout Aotearoa and the Pacific Islands. When he died suddenly in office on 31 August 1974 at the age of 51, there was a huge outpouring of public grief. The entire nation stopped and mourned. His state funeral was held 4 September 1974 at St Paul’s Cathedral in Wellington, and he was buried at Waimate Cemetery in the South Island. Norman Kirk was the 5th New Zealand Premier or Prime Minister to die in office.

This slide was likely created by David Evans of the City Council's Planning Office. M D (David) Evans was a planning assistant from 1955 to 1968, Deputy City Planner from 1968 to 1978 and Senior Planning Officer (Design and Development) from 1978-1988.

"Pressing an electric button on the official platform a short distance from the city end of the new Fitzherbert bridge, His Excellency the Governor-General, Lord Galway, to-day, broke a red, white and blue ribbon stretched taut across the end of the structure and declared the bridge officially open. Simultaneously flag draping dropped away from the two pylons at the entrance to reveal suitable commemorative inscriptions of the slabs of polished black Belgian marble embedded in concrete." See also, Manawatū Evening Standard, 20 & 22 July 1935.
The second Fitzherbert Bridge was built by Fletcher Construction Co. Ltd between 1933 and 1935. It replaced the original wooden structure completed in 1877. The second bridge was 256 metres in length with a 6.7 metre wide carriageway and 1.5 metre wide footpath. The structure's most distinctive features were the four pairs of bowstring arches, each 34.1 metres wide and 9.2 metres high. It remained in use until 1987 when it proved too small for the volume of traffic and was replaced by the current bridge.

Fitzherbert East School, Aokautere, was established in 1889. In July 1966, tenders were called for the construction of a new school building. The new building was completed in April 1967 and officially opened by the Minister of Education, Mr A. E. Kinsella, on 22 April. The following year, it was renamed Aokautere School.
This photograph was reproduced in the book Fitzherbert East Aokautere: School and District 1889-1989 (1989). Reproductions of the photos in this publication were provided to the Ian Matheson City Archives. This image is derived from a copy negative. The archives does not hold the original photograph.

The Woodville Post Office was completed in 1904 and demolished in 1982. It was damaged in the 1931 Hawke's Bay earthquake and the brickwork from the top storey was removed at that time. The postmaster originally lived in the top storey of the building with his family. A poll was carried out in c.1979, when about half the town said the building should be demolished, while the other half wanted it saved as an historic building.

In June 1980 the Government rejected plans to turn the Woodville Maternity Annexe into a hostel for children with intellectual disabilities. The hostel accomodation would have allowed the children to have six hour schooling a day instead of three hours, as the provision of residential accomodation would have removed the lenghty travel times from the surrounding area which limited the length of the school day.