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Warning

This information was published in 1966 in An Encyclopaedia of New Zealand, edited by A. H. McLintock. It has not been corrected and will not be updated.

Up-to-date information can be found elsewhere in Te Ara.

Conclusion

In the final analysis, the quality of a memorial rests firmly upon its artistic merit. Time will determine its historical significance, and practical considerations govern its nature and location, but only its aesthetic appeal will stir the hearts of mankind and thus create the sublime spirit of reverence and respect which is inherent to its purpose. It is not a matter of size or of any particular form, but simply what is conveyed by the inspirational quality of the design.

Many of New Zealand's memorials are no doubt commonplace, as indeed they are in every country, but some few at least have that touch of genius which makes them fitting symbols of this country's spirit.

by Cyril Roy Knight, M.A., B.ARCH. (LIVERPOOL), F.R.I.B.A., F.R.S.A., F.N.Z.I.A., Professor Emeritus, University of Auckland.

Co-creator
Cyril Roy Knight, M.A., B.ARCH. (LIVERPOOL), F.R.I.B.A., F.R.S.A., F.N.Z.I.A., Professor Emeritus, University of Auckland.