Author(s): Michael & Judith Bassett

Biographies & Memoirs

Roderick Deane is one of the most important figures in recent economic and political history. The New Zealand Herald once called him 'the godfather of New Zealand commerce'. In the past twenty years perhaps only Roger Douglas has played a bigger role in shaping the New Zealand economy. As Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank Deane was at the very heart of the dramatic introduction of Rogernomics. He oversaw the reorganisation of the public service and the formation of state-owned enterprises. He later became Chief Executive of Electricorp, and then of Telecom. Today he chairs several high-profile public companies. Drawing on interviews and on Deane's personal papers, Michael Bassett and Judith Bassett have created an in-depth portrait of this highly respected and influential man, as well as a convincing portrayal of political and economic life behind the scenes during some of New Zealand's most tumultuous times. First published July 2006.