Street Stories: Prime Ministers
Atkinson Street

Sir Harry Atkinson was a member of the Taranaki Richmond/Atkinson family that was heavily involved in both provincial and national politics. He served three terms as Premier, from 1876-77, in 1883, and 1887-91. A brusque man he was not popular but, despite his rural background, he was known for some of his radical views. His proposed national insurance scheme foresaw the modern welfare state.

Pic: Harry Atkinson was premier of New Zealand.