William Blomfield

In the days before press photography, Auckland cartoonist William (“Blo”) Blomfield began his journalistic career sketching dramatic news events. These ranged from everyday stories, to important political issues such as women’s suffrage, to what later in life became his specialty: covering high profile courtroom drama.

Inez Isabel Maude Peacocke

Isabel Maud Peacocke drew from her early days teaching disadvantaged boys to become one of New Zealand’s most insightful and popular children’s authors.

Dean Leo Parker

Parker was a celebrated New Zealand screenwriter, playwright, journalist, and political commentator.

Winifred "Winifred Wayne" Dean

Winifred was a an actress who captivated the audiences of London. She was appreciated for her beauty, voice, and enamouring performances.

John "Jack" Brynn Christie MBE

Katherine Morton (Elsie K. Morton)

Katherine “Elsie” Morton was a journalist, broadcaster and writer known for her newspaper features and books like "Crusoes of Sunday Island."

Oswald Astley Cheesman (MBE)

Oswald Astley Cheesman was an accomplished pianist, orchestra conductor, composer and teacher. He played a significant part in developing the first New Zealand Broadcasting Service's orchestra (the Auckland Radio Orchestra). In 1946 he also played a key part in forming New Zealand's National Orchestra, which is now the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra

Doinall Dhu O'Connor

Doinall Dhu O'Connor was theatrical manager and concert impresario for local and international talent alike.

R.A.K. Mason

Most critics regard R.A.K. Mason as New Zealand’s first authentic poet with a poetic intensity attributed in part, to his extraordinary youth. He was only 19 when he published his first collection of poems and most of his ‘Collected Poems’ were written before he turned 25.

Kate Emma Clark

Kate Clark was born in Suffolk, England. Her education included the study of art and later she earned a living doing research for writers, often in the British Museum.

Kevin Tod Smith

Kevin Smith was a New Zealand actor and musician. Best known as Ares, the Greek God of War in the television series Hercules. The Legendary Journeys and Zena: Warrior princess as well as Young Hercules.

Lewis Roberts Eady

Lewis Eady was an Auckland music dealer. He was active in various music and choral organisations. A very competent double bass player and pianist, Lewis Eady was also one of the early Auckland motorists (from about 1905 onwards) and reportedly, a crack recreational shooter.

Thomas Allen Curnow (ONZ) (CBE)

Thomas Curnow as a celebrated New Zealand poet, notable perhaps in New Zealand society that has had a traditional suspicion of intellectuals and those of a creative inclination. Thomas Curnow’s intellectual abilities were recognizable from his achievements during his training at St John’s College in preparation for his ordination. Despite graduating as the top student of his cohort he eventually decided not to enter the Church.