Esteemed Scientist Gordon Lauder Remembered for Global Contributions

Renowned scientist Gordon Lauder passed away on October 6, 2025, just shy of his 95th birthday. His extensive career spanned over three decades, during which he made significant contributions to atmospheric science and environmental research. Lauder’s work took him from the Arctic to the Antarctic, where he investigated various aspects of the Earth’s crust and atmosphere.

A graduate of Mt Albert Grammar and the University of Auckland, Lauder’s pioneering spirit led him to explore regions worldwide. He focused on mineral prospecting using radioactivity, gravity fields, and magnetic anomalies. His research also included measuring upper atmospheric conditions to understand the impact of solar activity and nuclear testing on the Earth’s ionosphere and magnetic field. Additionally, he conducted studies on trace gases in the middle atmosphere, employing a variety of optical techniques to investigate ozone depletion.

Lauder’s first decade of work primarily took place in the tropics, including locations such as Brisbane, Darwin, Rarotonga, and Samoa. It was in Rarotonga that he met Rima, who would become his wife for 65 years. Together, they welcomed three children: John, Christina, and Geoffrey.

In 1963, Lauder began his tenure at the DSIR Auroral Station, which consisted of modest wooden huts on a hillside. His association with Antarctic research began in 1967, coinciding with the early studies related to the ozone layer. His investigations into the interactions between solar radiation and the atmosphere laid the groundwork for understanding crucial navigation and communication technologies of the time.

Significantly, Lauder’s Antarctic research contributed to a better understanding of the causes behind the Antarctic ozone hole. His accomplishments were recognized through several prestigious awards. 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. In 2001, the New Zealand Geographical Board honored him by naming Keys Hill, near Scott Base, in his name.

Lauder served as president of the New Zealand Institute of Physics in the mid-1980s and earned a Master’s degree in physics with distinction from the University of Otago in 1993. After the dissolution of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), his work continued under the auspices of Niwa, now known as Earth Sciences New Zealand. He retired from Lauder in 1999 after more than 35 years, over half of which he spent as its director. Despite his retirement, his passion for scientific inquiry remained strong.

In addition to authoring up to 60 scientific publications, Lauder shared his adventurous spirit in his 2016 book, Stranded in Paradise. The book recounts his experiences salvaging propeller blades from the wreck of the RMS Maitai, which sank at Avarua Harbour nearly a century earlier. Lauder and Rima built a home in Rarotonga, where they often hosted friends and visitors, escaping the cold winters of Central Otago.

A gifted musician, Lauder was known for his lively musical gatherings, often showcasing his talents on the piano and piano accordion. His community involvement extended beyond music; he directed several performances for the Omakau Musical Society and actively participated in the Alexandra Rotary Club for 30 years, including serving as president.

Lauder’s enthusiasm for sports remained evident throughout his life. Well into his 90s, he continued playing tennis and played a vital role in establishing the tennis and hockey recreational facility next to the newly constructed Central Stories in 2011.

Gordon Lauder is survived by his son Geoffrey, his daughter Christina Parker, and Christina’s children, John and Camille, along with Camille’s son, Roimata. His legacy endures not only through his scientific contributions but also through the vibrant memories he created with family, friends, and the communities he served.