Today in History
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See historic events for any day of the year by entering the date below. Why not try your birthday?
New Zealand Music Month
May celebrates Kiwi music. Each May since 2001, New Zealand Music Month has showcased local music on radio, television and in live performances. This month we’ll give you 31 reasons to love New Zealand music. Today's story: The birth of Kiwi rock 'n' roll
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On top of the world: Ed Hillary
The legendary mountaineer, adventurer and philanthropist – whose familiar, craggy face beams out from the $5 note – is the best-known New Zealander ever to have lived. His ascent of Mt Everest with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay on 29 May 1953 brought him worldwide fame – literally overnight.
Homosexual law reform in New Zealand
The homosexual law reform campaign moved beyond the gay community to wider issues of human rights and discrimination. Extreme viewpoints ensured a lengthy and passionate debate before the Homosexual Law Reform Act was passed 27 years ago, in July 1986.
The Battle for Crete
It remains the most dramatic battle ever fought by New Zealand forces. Over 12 brutal days in May 1941 the Allies opposed a massive German airborne assault on the Mediterranean island of Crete. They almost succeeded.
Memorials register
Find exact locations and further information for more than 800 memorials throughout New Zealand.
