Members are no doubt aware of the death of Bill Andersen.

Bill’s contribution towards the N.Z.P.F.U., especially at an Auckland and Northern Branch level, should not go unrecognised. During our major struggles through the 1990’s, Bill attended many of our meetings, pickets, etc., and was always willing to give advice and assistance.

There will be a memorial gathering for the late Bill Andersen on Thursday, 27 January at 4 pm at the Orakei Marae (Bastion Point) in Auckland, and continuing afterwards at the Orakei RSA, 178 Kepa Rd.

Bill was an outstanding communist militant and union leader who made an historic contribution to New Zealand and especially to the workers’ movement. He touched the lives of thousands of people with his determined advocacy of workers’ rights and interests and with his humble and generous approach to life. Everyone is invited to join with Bill’s family, his comrades in the Socialist Party of Aotearoa and the National Distribution Union and all his friends to celebrate the life of this extraordinary man.

The meeting will begin with a powhiri and then there will be a programme of speakers and songs. The speakers will be Moana Jackson, Isaac Otineru, Toluono Nati Mata’afa, Laila Harré, Mike Jackson (NDU), the Andersen family, and Brendan Tuohy (Socialist Party of Aotearoa).

Parking is available at the marae, and free buses will run from the Britomart Centre from 3 pm and returning after the event.

Members are encouraged to attend in uniform Level 1 blue shirts, etc., as a mark of respect towards Bill.

Attached is an obituary, and death notice from the Firefighters Union.

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