This wooden carving of a rating pushing a coal truck was presented to HMNZS Taupo by the Watersiders Employer Federation ” in recognition of RNZN’s assistance in the 1951 strike”.
The strike was one of the most dramatic and costly labour disputes in New Zealand history. The catalyst for the dispute was the February 1951 “lock out” of waterside workers by ship owners. The watersiders had called a stopwork on working overtime in protest over the amount of a pay increase they’d been offered. Ship owners considered this ban on overtime an “illegal strike”.
The government of the day agreed.
The new Public Safety Conservation Act allowed for an emergency to be declared, and the Armed Forces called in, if unrest threatened ‘essentials of life’ such as food supply and power. On 22 February the state of emergency was declared by Prime Minister Sid Holland, The strike then escalated, with miners, divers and hydro-electric workers supporting the watersiders, some 22,000 workers in all.
Army, Navy and Air Force personnel covered strikers’ jobs. After 151 days the strike was broken officially ending on 26 July.
More to explore.
Clothing in the Collection
Collections Assistant Lori has been working hard on a project to rehouse the museum’s extensive clothing collection.
New Collection Items – Autumn 2024
Uncovering the latest acquisitions to the collection.
First Aid at Sea in the Second World War
Medical personnel played a vital role at sea during the Second World War.
Vietnam War Propaganda Leaflets – Artefact Unpacked
We uncover some Vietnam war propaganda leaflets.
Grave Marker – Artefact Unpacked
Uncover a 178-year-old Grave Marker donated to the Navy Museum.
The Wartime Artwork of Owen (Miles) Spence
A selection of drawings from Owen (Miles) Spence from the Navy Museum collection.
New Collection Items – Winter 2023
View a selection of new items added to the Collection during Winter 2023.
Looking back on the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II
Looking back on coronation of Queen Elizabeth II.
New Collection Items – Autumn 2023
View a selection of new items added to the Collection.
Fleet Air Arm Flight Jacket
Artefact Unpacked – Fleet Air Arm jacket made from leather and sheepskin.
Dear Midge
Letters sent by a sailor to his daughter during WW2.
Celebrating First Female Chaplain
Celebrating the achievements and career of Principal Chaplain Pauline Law ONZM (Rtd).
Naval Cloak
Naval Boat Cloak owned by Commander John Elworthy.
Santa Flag
This flag was hand painted by crew from HMNZS Wellington.
Five Power Defence Arrangements
The Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) were established in 1971.
Sweetheart Badges
These tiny badges are known as ‘sweetheart’ jewellery.
Painting the Navy
Painting the Navy – celebrating 80 years of RNZN with Colin Wynn.
Red Bicycle
Red Bicycle used by Naval personnel in Second World War.
The ‘Beating’ Heart of the Navy
The drum has always played a special role in the military.
Sailor’s Grave
This grave marker was made for Able Seaman William Simpson.