Aftermath of WW1 in the South Pacific
Nuclear testing in the Pacific - nuclear-free New Zealand
Peace celebrations in the Pacific
The Cook Islands
News of the Armistice in Europe in November 1918 came swiftly to Rarotonga via its new wireless station.
Building families - state housing in New Zealand
Happy families
'We had a marvellous life for the kids.'
Glad Carrick, Naenae resident, 1940
Glad's heartfelt comment captures an essential aim of state housing: to provide suburban homes for families, a place where children could grow up in safe and spacious surroundings, away from the dangers of the inner city. This guided state housing policy from the beginning. The houses built under Premier Richard Seddon's workers' dwellings scheme from 1905 were targeted at working families, invariably nuclear families: two parents with children. Successive governments continued the practice, believing the nuclear family to be the 'foundation of the nation', a foundation that required the buttressing of the state to remain grounded and true.
Troop repatriation - aftermath of WW1 in the Pacific
Making ends meet - state housing in New Zealand
'They don't know I work. I'll go to jail if I get found out, but I work to feed and house my kids, I have to.'
State house tenant and beneficiary, Palmerston North, 1995
For low-paid workers and beneficiaries, making ends meet has always been a constant struggle. Unexpected bills will often blow budgets and asking for charity can be degrading. A lack of money also places strain on personal and other relationships, sometimes causing their breakdown. Life can be even tougher for those without a home of their own. The private rental market is often expensive – particularly in times of short supply – and sometimes discriminates against the poor and ethnic minorities. People in this situation often have to accept sub-standard accommodation or squeeze into a place too small for their needs.
NZ government acknowledgement - aftermath of WW1 in the Pacific
Economic, social and political impact - aftermath of WW1 in the Pacific
The First World War opened the Pacific Islands to the world more than they ever had been before. The Cook Islands and Niue farewelled their men on a journey to war that was beyond comprehension. The men who returned were changed. During their time in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force (NZEF) they had experienced a whole new life. They had been disciplined, trained and worked hard. They had also been treated as the equals of other men.
Unveiling of soldiers' memorial, Avarua
Unveiling of the Cook Islands soldiers’ memorial, Avarua, Rarotonga, 5 May 1926.
See related article about this event from the Evening Post, 8 June 1926 (PapersPast)
The memorial in 2008:
Wireless station established in Rarotonga
Report on the availability of wireless radio in Rarotonga from the Poverty Bay Herald, 20 April 1918. The station allowed the transmission of news about the First World War from New Zealand, including the announcement of the Armistice in November 1918.
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