A community event was held in Kaiapoi today to mark the 50th anniversary of former Prime Minister Norman Kirk’s passing.

It was organised by Dan Rosewarne and the Waimakariri branch of the New Zealand Labour Party.

The event brought together members of the Labour Party and local residents to reflect on the life and legacy of Kirk.

Megan Woods, Labour MP for Wigram, was among the speakers at the event.

She spoke about Kirk’s political career, which began in Kaiapoi when he joined the local Labour Party branch.

“Norm’s political courage was extraordinary,” Woods said.

“His vision for a New Zealand based on unity and a partnership between Māori and Pākehā, and his leadership in standing up to French nuclear testing in the Pacific, are legacies that still resonate today. I asked, ‘What would Norm do?’ as a question we should still be asking.”

Woods was joined by Tracey McLellan, MP for Banks Peninsula, and Duncan Webb, MP for Christchurch Central, who shared memories and stories of Kirk, highlighting his lasting impact on those who knew him as a local member.

Kirk, born in 1923, was a significant figure in New Zealand’s political landscape.

He began his career in politics by joining the Kaiapoi branch of the Labour Party and became the youngest mayor of Kaiapoi at the age of 30.

Kirk’s political journey took him to national prominence when he became the Member of Parliament for Lyttelton (now Banks Peninsula) and later Sydenham (now Wigram).

As Prime Minister from 1972 until his untimely death in 1974, Kirk was known for his progressive policies and strong stance on social justice, environmental issues, and nuclear disarmament.