Bill Rowling

Abstract

Bill Rowling had the misfortune to serve as prime minister sandwiched in between three of the giants of New Zealand politics — Norman Kirk (whose untimely death brought about Rowling's election to the position of prime minister), Robert Muldoon (who defeated Rowling in the 1975 election) and David Lange (who took over from Rowling as Labour Party leader). Although overshadowed by these three figures, Rowling - whom I term 'the quiet nationalist' — made his own special contribution to New Zealand's independence, arising out of several sources: a distinctive 'kiwi' leadership style; strong nationalist feelings and a sense of national identity; a commitment to an independent foreign policy for New Zealand; and, finally, a sense of 'economic nationalism' which was reflected in a firm opposition to foreign control of the New Zealand economy.