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Keith Holyoake

Zealand politician

Born: Died: New Zealand

Sir Keith Jacka Holyoake (11 February 1904 – 8 December 1983) was a New Zealand politician who served as the 26th prime minister of New Zealand, serving for a brief period in 1957 and then from 1960 to 1972, and also as the 13th governor-general of New Zealand, serving from 1977 to 1980. He is the only New Zealand politician to have held both positions.

Holyoake was born near Pahiatua in the Wairarapa. He left formal education at the age of 12 to help on the family farm. Before entering politics, he was active in various local farming associations. He was first elected to Parliament in 1932 for the Motueka electorate, representing the conservative Reform Party. Having played an instrumental role in the formation of the National Party in 1936, he lost his seat two years later. However, he was then earmarked for the safe seat of Pahiatua, which he held from 1943.

Following National's first election victory, Holyoake entered Cabinet in 1949. In 1954, he was appointed the first deputy prime minister of New Zealand, under Sidney Holland. Holyoake became leader of the National Party and prime minister two months before the 1957 election, after Holland's resignation due to ill health.

Notable For

New Zealand politician

Keith Holyoake's Historical Timeline

  1. Keith Holyoake is born

    Keith Holyoake, New Zealand zealand politician, known for new zealand politician, was born on 1904-02-11.

Associated Historical Events

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Keith Holyoake born?
Keith Holyoake was born on 1904-02-11 (New Zealand).
What is Keith Holyoake known for?
New Zealand politician
What historical events involved Keith Holyoake?
Keith Holyoake was involved in 1 recorded historical event, including Keith Holyoake is born.
When did Keith Holyoake die?
Keith Holyoake died on 1983-01-01.

Related Years