Decades of Change

The 60s, 70s and 80s were rowdy decades. Kiwis were getting out in the streets and raising their voices about the rights of Māori, women and LGBT people, nuclear energy, the environment. Plus the most controversial sporting event in our history: The 1981 Springbok Tour.

Through the 60s and 70s generations clashed and minority groups fought for their rights. Social issues such as women's rights and nuclear power gained traction, as the economy stayed strong in Fortress New Zealand. The dominant politician was Robert Muldoon, but those social and economic issues were coming to a head.

Watch the video version of the episode here

Topics covered:

• Women's rights movements focusing on debates over equal pay, abortion, contraceptives, sex education and sexism
• LGBT rights with particular focus on law reforms about same sex relationships and controvesy around lesbians in the women's movement.
• Controversy surrounding apartheid and the Springbok rugby team in the 1970s
• The election of Robert Muldoon.
• 1970s economic problems including discussion of protectionism, Muldoon's "Think Big" policies, price and wage freezes.
• The environmental movement, including the Lake Manapōuri and the Mairuia Declaration.
• The 1981 Springbok Tour.
• Nuclear-Free Movement and the bombing of the Rainbow Warrior.

Go to this episode on rnz.co.nz for more details