William Reeves - the all-rounder

In an era when Canterbury and NZ was developing at a rapid pace, it was not uncommon for some men to stand out for their incredible contributions. One of these men is William Pember Reeves, who can be credited with re-defining the term all-rounder.

Reeves was born in Lyttelton – just two weeks after his family arrived from England in 1857. After successful schooling, he excelled in both academia and sport. He was among a small group of cricketers who conceived the idea of a new sports ground in Christchurch where gate charges could fund the growth of sport in the region. Reeves was to become a founding shareholder and was actively involved in the early administration of Lancaster Park.

As a renowned cricketer, he played the first ever cricket match at Lancaster Park in 1881 – taking 6 wickets in his side’s victory. He went on to represent Canterbury over 10 seasons. He also excelled at rugby, making a single appearance for Canterbury.

Following his studies, which included a brief stint at Oxford University, he practiced locally as a lawyer and a journalist – graduating to be the editor of both the Canterbury Times and the Lyttelton Times.

Thereafter, as was common with successful men of the era, Reeves was encouraged into politics, being elected first in 1887. As a confessed socialist, he became NZ’s first Minister of Labour in 1892 – developing significant labour reform, including introducing the concept of an Arbitration Court.

Following his stint in politics he became NZ’s High Commissioner to the UK, and after deciding to remain in London, he later became a director at the London School of Economics before, ironically, given his political leaning, becoming chairman of the National Bank of NZ.

During this period, he continued his writing, whilst also developing his skills in poetry. He wrote several books, including a popular publication on the history of NZ.

In true noble fashion, he was to decline the offer of a knighthood on three occasions.

Reeves died in London in 1932 at the age of 75. Cricketer, rugby player, journalist, poet, author, politician, diplomat, academic, businessman…and Lancaster Park founder. A true all-rounder. A life fulfilled.