Ruth Gotlieb facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ruth Gotlieb
QSO
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Gotlieb in 2017
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| Wellington City Councillor for Eastern Ward | |
| In office 11 October 1986 – 13 October 2001 |
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| Preceded by | ward established |
| Succeeded by | David Major |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Ruth Wolman
16 May 1923 England |
| Died | 23 July 2019 (aged 96) Wellington, New Zealand |
| Political party | Independent |
| Other political affiliations |
National (past) |
| Spouse |
Gerald Gotlieb
(m. 1951; died 2006) |
| Children | 4 |
Ruth Gotlieb QSO (born Ruth Wolman, May 16, 1923 – July 23, 2019) was an important local politician in Wellington, New Zealand. She served as a city councillor for Wellington from 1983 to 2001, helping to make many positive changes in the city.
Contents
About Ruth Gotlieb
Her Early Life
Ruth Gotlieb was born in England on May 16, 1923. Her parents were Joseph and Reka Wolman. When she was young, her family moved to Cork, Ireland. This was because her father became a rabbi (a Jewish religious leader) there.
Later, when Ruth was a teenager, her family moved again. They went to Brisbane, Australia, where her father became the chief rabbi. During World War II, Ruth joined the Signal Corps. She became a Morse operator, sending messages using special signals.
In the 1940s, Ruth moved to Wellington, New Zealand. She married Gerry Gotlieb in 1951. Together, they started a pretzel business. Ruth and Gerry had four children.
Becoming a Politician
Ruth Gotlieb was a city councillor for Wellington City Council from 1983 to 2001. For most of this time, she represented the Eastern ward. She also served on other important groups. These included the Greater Wellington Regional Council, the Wellington Harbour Board, and the Capital and Coast District Health Board.
Ruth first tried to become a councillor in 1980. She joined a new group called "Rates Reform." Even though she got many votes, she did not win that time. In the next election in 1983, she joined another group called the "Citizens' Association." This time, she was successfully elected as a councillor.
In 1986, Ruth was elected to represent the Eastern ward specifically. She also tried to become a Member of Parliament for the National Party in 1987. She did not win the nomination, but she said it was a "wonderful experience."
Ruth was very dedicated to her work as a councillor. She once lost her part-time job because she spent "too much time" on council duties. She said, "I loved my little job, but I loved being a councillor more."
In 1992, Ruth wanted to become the mayor of Wellington. She decided to run as an independent candidate, meaning she was not part of a political group. She said she expected to win because people knew she would keep her promises. She finished fifth in the mayoral race. However, she was re-elected as a councillor for the Eastern ward. She stayed in this role until 2001.
Making a Difference in Wellington
During her time as a councillor, Ruth Gotlieb achieved many things. She helped create the Wellington Youth Council. This group gave young people a voice in the city. She also supported starting a mobile library service, which brought books to different neighbourhoods.
Ruth also worked hard to get a special hydrotherapy pool installed at the Kilbirnie Aquatic Centre. This pool helps people with injuries or disabilities. She also helped with the big upgrade of Wellington Hospital. She was also involved with a large arts festival called Sesqui 1990.
Later Years and Legacy
After her political career, Ruth Gotlieb continued to help her community. She volunteered for many organisations. These included Trade Aid, the Cancer Society, the Newtown Community Centre, and Ronald McDonald House. She also volunteered at Mary Potter Hospice.
In 2007, Ruth tried to become a councillor again for the Eastern ward. However, she was not successful this time. Ruth Gotlieb passed away in Wellington on July 23, 2019. She was 96 years old.
How She Was Honoured
Ruth Gotlieb received special recognition for her public service. In 1995, she was appointed a Companion of the Queen's Service Order. This is a high honour in New Zealand.
In 2000, the Wellington City Council named the public library in Kilbirnie after her. It is called the Ruth Gotlieb Library. This was to recognise her great work for library services in the city. In 2010, she was also named Wellingtonian of the Year. This award celebrates people who have made a big difference in Wellington.
