Political Figures
Protest Groups
Tim Shadbolt:
Tim Shadbolt as a key figure in the anti-Vietnam War movement who encouraged the New Zealand youth into active protest. Born in Auckland in 1974, he became a prominent community figure through is participation in the AUSAPOCPAH (Auckland University Society for the Active Prevention of Cruelty to Politically Apathetic Humans.) Shadbolt was arrested on thirty three occasions during political protests, most notably for using the term 'bullshit' in public. Shadbolt was well-known for his questioning and humorous addresses to crowds. Tim Shadbolt organised weekly meetings known as 'Jumping Sundays' in Albert Park, these meetings raised awareness of issues surrounding New Zealands involvement in the war. |
'The emphasis was on small but persistent action: guerrilla protests, pickets, leaflets, posters, parades… We used to have marches down Queen Street. Our biggest rallies drew as many as 35 people. We also picketed American warships… An Auckland housewife was arrested for singing anti-war songs on an American ship and was charged with offensive behaviour. We were small, we were social outcasts, but we kept going. Gradually things began to change.'
- Shadbolt recalls protests in 1968
- Shadbolt recalls protests in 1968
Committee on Vietnam (COV)
The protest action taken by the Committees on Vietnam (COV) significantly enhanced the anti-war movement against the Vietnam War. Established in 1965, the COV had branches across New Zealand, although having the same focus as many other anti-war groups, of being against New Zealands military involvement in the Vietnam, it aimed to provided a unified and structured model of a anti-war group. The Committees on Vietnam members were diverse ranging from students to unionists, the intention of the group was to mobilize people to make change through protest marches and teach-ins at both Auckland and Victoria Universities. |