And the perfect biographer to write it.
Paul Goldsmith has written extensively about the lives o fa number of leading New Zealand businessmen and political figures, as well as about aspects of Maori history and politics.
Among his previous books are: John Banks: A biography; TN Gibbs; Gibbs: New Zealand roots; Brash: A biography; The Myers (with Michael Bassett); We Won, You Lost. Eat That! A political history of tax in New Zealand since 1840; Stress and Enterprise: The career of Richard Izard;
Fletchers: A centennial history of Fletcher Building.
Goldsmith, who enjoyed free access to Gibbs, says he hopes his biography will entertain and be thought-provoking for readers of all backgrounds and across the political spectrum.
“It’s a book about a guy who has lived a very full life. It is exhausting just thinking about it. From cars, to finance, to political reform, to art … back to vehicles.”
“Stories like Alan’s add complexity and interest to our collective national story.
“He’s been a major figure in New Zealand life in many respects, particularly in business and politics, but much of the Alan Gibbs story has remained untold in its entirety.
“And there is so much more to Alan than his economic philosophies. The entrepreneurial side of Alan is a fascinating story as is his early interest in the arts, including how he and his former wife, Jenny Gibbs, came to establish one of our most significant private art collections.
“When Alan left New Zealand in the late 1990s, it wasn’t to retire and play golf all day. As Alan says in the book, he tried out retirement in his thirties and soon realised it was not for him. Now in his seventies, he is just as driven and intellectually hungry as ever. He’s a voracious reader and he remains determined to achieve his dream of getting his amphibious vehicles to market. He now divides his time between London, Detroit and the Kaipara Harbour".
There is no doubt that Gibbs is one of the most controversial, complex, fascinating and colourful New Zealand businessmen of recent times and like him or not this is a lively, engaging and surprising read about one of this country’s most influential business figures, one who history certainly won’t forget.
The book also gives insight into the Gibbs family. Although Alan and Jenny Gibbs were eventually to part ways, there is a sense that the couple were ahead of their time and equals in every respect. Jenny Gibbs speaks of life never being boring with Alan, meantime for his children life was an unpredictable adventure. Sure, they were fortunate to travel the globe but growing up around Alan was also an intellectual adventure. Mealtime around the family table was always a slightly terrifying prospect. Not one to suffer fools, Alan encouraged debate and argument, even within the family. It was fine to have an opinion that differed to his but if it wasn’t rock-solid and well-grounded, look out.
Serious Fun: The life & times of Alan Gibbs
Paul Goldsmith
Random House $45.00
Publication - 3 August, 2012