Story: Poles

President of Wellington’s Polish community, 1986

President of Wellington’s Polish community, 1986

In 1948 the Polish Association was formed in Wellington. An important aim was to fight for Polish independence, so that Poles in New Zealand could return home. Members also kept the culture alive and performed charitable works. The association remained a feature of Wellington life for the rest of the 20th century. The group’s president in 1986 was Joe Mendruń, seen here outside their premises.

Using this item

Alexander Turnbull Library, Dominion Post Collection (PAColl-7327)
Reference: EP/1986/5843-F

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

Theresa Sawicka, 'Poles - 20th-century arrivals', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/1159/president-of-wellingtons-polish-community-1986 (accessed 25 April 2024)

Story by Theresa Sawicka, published 8 Feb 2005, updated 1 Mar 2015