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John Kneebone
John Kneebone (cropped).jpg
Kneebone in 2018
President of Federated Farmers
In office
1974–1977
Personal details
Born
John Thomas Kneebone

(1935-09-04)4 September 1935
Matamata, New Zealand
Died 28 June 2020(2020-06-28) (aged 84)
Cambridge, New Zealand
Spouse
Kay Alexander
(m. 1965)
Children 3
Education Matamata College
Occupation Dairy farmer

John Thomas Kneebone (born 4 September 1935, died 28 June 2020) was an important leader in New Zealand. He was a local politician and helped farmers. He worked on the Matamata County Council and led a big farming group called Federated Farmers.

Who Was John Kneebone?

John Thomas Kneebone was a well-known New Zealander. He was a dairy farmer and a company director. John was very active in his local community. He also played a big role in leading farmers across the country.

Early Life and Education

John Kneebone was born in Matamata, New Zealand. His birthday was on 4 September 1935. He went to school at Hinuera School. Later, he studied at Matamata College. In 1965, he married Kay Alexander. They had three children together.

Helping the Community

John Kneebone was involved in local government. He was elected to the Matamata County Council. He served on the council from 1959 to 1967. This meant he helped make decisions for his local area.

Leading Farmers Across New Zealand

John was a strong voice for farmers. He became the president of Federated Farmers in 1974. This is a very important group for farmers in New Zealand. He held this top position until 1977. He worked to support farmers and their businesses.

A Big Idea: Fieldays

John Kneebone had a great idea in 1966. He visited the United Kingdom on a special scholarship. There, he saw agricultural shows. This inspired him to create something similar in New Zealand. His idea led to the National Agricultural Fieldays. This big event started in 1969. It is now a huge annual show for farming.

Working for Justice: Waitangi Tribunal

In 1989, John Kneebone was chosen for the Waitangi Tribunal. This group looks into claims by Māori people. These claims are about actions by the New Zealand government. They check if the government broke the Treaty of Waitangi.

Special Recognition

John Kneebone received a special honour in 1988. He was made a Companion of the Order of St Michael and St George (CMG). This award was given for his public service. It also recognised his great work for agriculture.

Later Life and Passing

John Kneebone passed away on 28 June 2020. He died in Cambridge. He was 84 years old.

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