Memories of Public Figures – Sir Jim Bolger

“Someday you will die” Title of the previous blog.

Copilot's Sir Jim Bolger

Life can be so quirky at times. Since writing “Someday you will die”, coincidentally two public figures passed on. Sir Jim Bolger former Prime Minister of New Zealand and actress Diane Keaton.

Sir Jim Bolger

Sir Jim Bolger was a prominent New Zealand politician and leader of the National Party, serving as our Prime Minister from 1990 to 1997. His political career of over thirty years began when he was elected to represent his constituents in Parliament in 1972. A farmer, Bolger led the National Party for 12 years. As leader of the National Party, he achieved the largest electoral victory in New Zealand’s history during the 1990 election.​ Bolger was knighted in 1998, from that time forward he will always be known as Sir Jim Bolger.

Until he was ousted from leadership seven years later by Jenny Shipley, Bolger achieved much as Prime Minister. From the perspective of Maori, the Treaty of Waitangi Settlements was the most important and impactful of his tenure.

Key Achievements and Highlights:

• Economic Reform: Oversaw major economic changes, modernising New Zealand’s economy and guiding the country out of a period of instability, leaving it as one of the most open and competitive economies in the world by the end of his service.​

• MMP Electoral System: Amidst intense public debate, he presided over the introduction of the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) electoral system. A significant change from the “first past the post” system which was in place for all past elections. MMP gave voice to diverse views and representation in Parliament. It continues to shape New Zealand democracy today.​

• Treaty of Waitangi Settlements: Made substantial progress in addressing historical grievances with the Treaty of Waitangi settlements, showing commitment to reconciliation. Tainui, one of the largest tribes in the country, today is both culturally and economically strong, in part due to the efforts of Sir Jim Bolger.

• Foreign Relations: Strengthened New Zealand’s relationships with international partners, especially within the Asia-Pacific region, and helped repair links with countries such as the United States.

• Social and Labour Reforms: His government implemented significant legislative changes, including the controversial Employment Contracts Act and public sector reforms. One main point in the Act was, “Freedom of Association: Workers were granted the right to choose whether to be represented by a union or negotiate independently.”

• Ambassador: After leaving Parliament, Bolger served as ambassador to the United States, furthering New Zealand’s diplomatic presence abroad.

  
  

Respect

Sir Jim Bolger is strong in my memory as an acute, sharing and caring politician. Throughout his life he continued to be admired for his pragmatism, vision, and deep sense of duty. He helped prepare New Zealand for future challenges and left a legacy for generations to consider, to debate and ultimately to respect.