Norman Kirk, rugby postponement and the Kirk brand.

The article profiles Norman Kirk, the Labour Party prime minister-elect of New Zealand in 1973. Information on Kirk's credentials as anti-apartheid activist in the 1960s, diplomatic vision and his experience of participating in debates over New Zealand's link with apartheid South Africa in 1972 is offered. The role of Frank Corner, secretary of foreign affairs, and his assistant, Malcolm Templeton, in resolving the controversy over the New Zealand-South Africa rugby football match is discussed.