Celebrated Scientist Gordon Lauder Remembered for Global Impact

Renowned scientist Gordon Lauder, whose pioneering work spanned from the Arctic to the Antarctic, passed away on November 6, 2025, just weeks shy of his 95th birthday. His contributions to atmospheric and geological research have left an indelible mark on the scientific community.

Lauder’s journey began after attending Mt Albert Grammar and studying at the University of Auckland. He embarked on a vibrant scientific career that took him around the globe, investigating Earth’s crust and atmosphere. His extensive research included mineral prospecting using anomalies in radioactivity and gravity fields, as well as studying how solar activity impacts Earth’s ionosphere and magnetic field.

In the early years of his career, Lauder focused on the tropics, conducting research in locations such as Brisbane, Darwin, Rarotonga, and Samoa. During his time in Rarotonga, he met Rima, who would become his wife for 65 years. Together, they had three children: John, Christina, and Geoffrey.

Lauder’s significant association with Antarctic research began in 1967, long before the ozone hole was a recognized issue. He conducted vital research on the interactions between solar radiation and the atmosphere, which had important implications for navigation and communication. His later work in Antarctica contributed to a deeper understanding of the causes of the Antarctic ozone hole.

The impact of Lauder’s research was acknowledged in multiple ways. In 1994, he was invited to summarize New Zealand’s contributions to Antarctic atmospheric research during a discussion with Prince Charles at the Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. The following year, he received the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Science and Technology Silver Medal. His legacy continued in 2001 when the New Zealand Geographical Board named Keys Hill, near Scott Base, in his honour.

Throughout his career, Lauder held various leadership positions, including serving as president of the New Zealand Institute of Physics in the mid-1980s. He completed a Master of Science in physics with distinction from the University of Otago in 1993, shortly before the dissolution of DSIR, which subsequently became part of Niwa (now known as Earth Sciences New Zealand). Lauder retired from Lauder in 1999, having devoted over 35 years to his work, more than half of which he spent in a leadership role.

Despite his retirement, Lauder remained engaged with scientific pursuits. He authored approximately 60 scientific publications and penned a book titled Stranded in Paradise, published in 2016. In it, he recounts his adventurous efforts in Rarotonga, where he and a friend salvaged propeller blades from the wreck of the RMS Maitai, which sank almost a century earlier.

Lauder and Rima built their own home in Rarotonga, where they created a welcoming environment for numerous visitors. A talented musician, Lauder often entertained guests with piano performances, showcasing his passion for music. He actively participated in community affairs, directing musical performances for the Omakau Musical Society and engaging with the local Art Society and the Rotary Club of Alexandra for three decades.

In addition to his artistic and community contributions, Lauder enjoyed a variety of sports, continuing to play tennis into his 90s. He was instrumental in establishing a recreational facility for tennis and hockey alongside the newly built Central Stories in 2011.

Gordon Lauder’s legacy lives on through his family, including his son Geoffrey, daughter Christina Parker, and grandchildren John and Camille, along with Camille’s son, Roimata. He is remembered not only for his scientific achievements but also for his vibrant personality and dedication to family and community.