Celebrated Scientist Gordon McKenzie Remembered for Pioneering Work

Gordon McKenzie, a prominent scientist renowned for his groundbreaking work in atmospheric research, passed away on November 6, 2025, just shy of his 95th birthday. His extensive career spanned several decades and took him to some of the most remote regions of the planet, including the Arctic and Antarctic. McKenzie’s research significantly advanced the understanding of Earth’s atmosphere and its interactions with solar activity, contributing to vital insights into ozone depletion.

A Diverse and Impactful Career

After completing his education at Mt Albert Grammar and the University of Auckland, McKenzie began a pioneering career that would see him traverse the globe. His work involved investigating the Earth’s crust and atmosphere, employing various scientific methods to explore radioactivity, gravity fields, and magnetic anomalies. He also conducted crucial measurements of trace gases in the atmosphere, which were essential for understanding the causes of ozone depletion.

During his first decade of research, McKenzie focused primarily on tropical regions, including Brisbane, Darwin, Rarotonga, and Samoa. It was in Rarotonga that he met his future wife, Rima McKenzie, with whom he shared 65 years of marriage and had three children: John, Christina, and Geoffrey.

McKenzie’s long association with Antarctic research began in 1967, well before the recognition of the ozone hole. His studies on solar radiation’s effects on the atmosphere had significant implications for compass navigation and short-wave radio communication, both of which were critical at that time. His later work in Antarctica helped clarify the causes of the ozone hole, a discovery that had profound environmental implications.

Recognition and Legacy

McKenzie received several accolades for his contributions to science. In 1994, he was invited to present New Zealand’s atmospheric research contributions during a discussion with then-Prince Charles at the Antarctic Centre in Christchurch. One year later, he was awarded the Royal Society of New Zealand’s Science and Technology Silver Medal in 1995. His legacy was further solidified in 2001 when the New Zealand Geographical Board named Keys Hill, near Scott Base, in his honor.

In the mid-1980s, McKenzie served as president of the New Zealand Institute of Physics. He earned a Master of Science in physics with distinction from the University of Otago in 1993. Following the dissolution of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), McKenzie continued his work at Lauder, which became part of Niwa (now known as Earth Sciences New Zealand). He retired in 1999, concluding over 35 years of service, with more than half of that time spent in leadership roles.

His passion for science remained evident even after retirement. McKenzie authored up to 60 scientific publications and published a book titled Stranded in Paradise in 2016. The book chronicles his adventurous experiences in Rarotonga, including the salvage of propeller blades from the RMS Maitai, which sank almost a century earlier.

Beyond his scientific achievements, McKenzie was a talented musician who enjoyed sharing his love of music with others. He directed numerous musical performances with the Omakau Musical Society and was actively involved in the local Art Society and the Rotary Club of Alexandra for three decades, even serving as president in both organizations. His enthusiasm for sports was evident as he continued playing tennis into his 90s, playing a vital role in establishing a recreational facility in 2011.

McKenzie’s impact on both the scientific community and local society is profound. He is remembered not only for his groundbreaking research but also for his vibrant community involvement and dedication to family. He is survived by his son Geoffrey, daughter Christina Parker, and grandchildren John and Camille, alongside Camille’s son, Roimata. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of scientists and community members alike.