Norman KIrk (1923-1974)

It is 40 years since one of this country's greatest PM's, Norman “Big Norm” Kirk died while still in office.

This time also corresponded with when I was developing political awareness.

This documentary shows us just how much we have lost – in the media, in the politicians and a society that was inclusive and caring.

Who, these days talks with any sort of authenticity about democracy belonging to the people, or serving the people?

Inquiry - The Late Mr Norman Kirk

Television, 1974

"Democracy doesn’t belong to Government or to prime ministers. It belongs to the people".

Norman Kirk

"I don’t know whether it’s so much what he offered as the fact that he identified himself with you and me — with the common man".

– Alexandra resident

In September 1974, NZ reels from the premature loss of Norman Kirk — dead at 51 after just 20 months as prime minister. For this NZBC current affairs show, reporters Joe Coté and George Andrews head to the provinces to find out how Kirk is remembered by the ordinary men and women he valued so much. In less than stellar Labour strongholds in Central Otago and Taranaki, they meet people won over by a politician prepared to listen and treat them as equals. Their palpable affection is shared by Pacific leaders Gough Whitlam, Albert Henry and Michael Somare.

To watch the video GO HERE