Naming ceremony honours 'father of ACC', Sir Owen Woodhouse

In a moving ceremony today, ACC named the atrium of its corporate office in Wellington’s Justice Centre the ‘Sir Owen Woodhouse Atrium’.

Sir Owen Woodhouse, who passed away last month, chaired the 1966 royal commission which led to the creation of New Zealand’s unique accident compensation scheme, and he’s widely regarded as ‘the father of ACC’.

Guests at today’s naming ceremony included representatives of Sir Owen’s family, the ACC Board and Executive and ACC staff.

During the ceremony, which was conducted in accordance with Maori protocols and included a Maori blessing, a photo and plaque honouring Sir Owen was unveiled by his son, John Woodhouse.

ACC’s Chief Executive, Scott Pickering, says “Sir Owen was a man of great mana, and he has a special place in the hearts of ACC staff.

“Today’s ceremony means Sir Owen now has an ongoing physical presence in the corporation he helped create, which will ensure he’s never forgotten.

“The atrium is a busy, communal hub for ACC staff, and it will be both moving and fitting to know that from today onwards, Sir Owen will be forever watching over us.”

ENDS

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