Erik Newland Olssen

I always felt so lucky to study and later work at the History Department, with the wonderful atmosphere of people like Erik, Barbara and all of the other academics working there. Erik was such a wonderful mentor - combining brilliant intellect with an infectious energy and joy for life — always with a sparkle in his eyes. It was a privilege to work on the Caversham Project and continue to learn from him. And love of history sparked many years of continued study in the UK and a lifelong interest in reading about the past. Special memories also include minding his young twins Susie and Cam at age 2 who were so very entertaining. It was wonderful to spend time in the happy home he and Annabel had created. Reconnecting with Erik and Annabel on their last visit to Europe in 2024 was so special, I just loved it. I fondly remember the laughs over some of our shared memories and some of the life lessons Erik had imparted to me as an early 20 year old - "people do still marry for love Emma!!!". He was such a special, warm man and it’s so hard to say farewell. I will miss him hugely and feel so thankful to have had the time to reconnect with him after many years away from Dunedin. Thinking of Annabel and Cam and Susie and everyone who loved Erik.

I was saddened to hear that Erik had died. Whenever our paths crossed, he had kind words to say and was full of good humour. He was an integral part of the Otago scene and will live on in our memories.

Erik was a integral part of a superstar History Department that I had the delight to study under, first as an undergraduate in the mid 1990s and then as a Masters student in early 2000s. Even after 20 years of being away, Erik remembered me when I returned to Dunedin. I worked at the Otago Farmers Market and he always had time for a quick chat and a warm smile. He was a warm-hearted and generous person. And then there is his exceptional body of scholarship as well. He was what all top-flight academics should be; incredibly, dauntingly intelligent but so enthusiastic and encouraging of all his students. My condolences to his family, he was a remarkable gentleman.

Chris and I are very sorry we couldn't attend Erik's funeral. He was a lovely gentle friend, a fine scholar and an excellent author, a diamond in Otago's crown.

Dear Annabel, So sad to hear about Erik’s passing. Delwyn and I so much enjoyed catching up with you both a couple of years ago. Erik has remained a huge influence on me as a historian and as a model of a supervisor and warm and caring man. I am honored to have been among the students who have taken what we learned from him far beyond NZ. I would very much like to contribute or help any plans to honor him in the history department or university.

Dear Annabel and whanau. It was a privilege to briefly catch up with Erik at the Turnbull Library late last year. His inspiring lectures and tutorials will never be forgotten; as well as those one:one conversations as the haze of pipe smoke slowly descended to envelope the conversation. He inspired several generations of graduates and all of us who had the opportunity to be the recipients of his lectures are the richer for it. Arohanui

Like many others I am very sorry to hear that Erik has died. He was a truly great historian. He had a fair bit to do with the beginning of my academic career, when he got me down to Otago as a research assistant in 1986 – and then of course he was one of my PhD supervisors. As a supervisor he was meticulous, supportive, and rigorous in equal measure, and he remained kind and generous, notably in his reaction when I got my own chair. I have engaged with, been challenged by, argued with, taught, and enjoyed his scholarship over many years. It was a great pleasure to be able to have lunch with him at the National Library earlier this year. My sympathy to you, Annabel, and to all who were close to him.

The changes in society in Erik Olssen's life time have been immense.He seemed to cope remarkably well and finished 'The Origins of An Experimental Society' in spite of every thing. Today we seem a long way from Socialism and Caversham could drown tomorrow. The closure of the University Book Shop might seem ridiculous in a so called City of Literature with its Hocken and Burns statue but there is nothing guaranteed . I don't know if Erik was worried by all this . He seemed remarkably cheerful as he munched on a meagre lunch in that ironically named Good Earth cafe with only an artist for company. Best wishes to Erik and his family with a bundle of cabbages leaves neatly folded for dark winters .Arohanui . From Nigel and Sue

Dear Annabelle and family, my condolences for the loss of Eric. With love, John Dodd

Dear Annabel and family, very sorry to hear that Erik has died. He was such a good man and a wonderful scholar. It is so sad that he has not been able to finish Vol 2 of his great work and he will be bloody annoyed! We will remember him with much affection. Me Te Aroha pouri Atholl and Rosanne

Dear Annabel and family, so very sorry to learn of Erik’s passing. Erik was much loved and respected by all whom he taught or took under his wings - he was a wonderful supervisor for both my honours and Masters in the 80s - endlessly patient, thoughtful, generous, understanding, and astute - I and my fellow students always came away so much the better for every encounter. All done with a great sense of fun and good humour - a very special man. Erik leaves such a legacy through his teaching, his mentoring and in the written word - his last (volume 1) a fantastic read. Erik will be sadly missed, thank you for a life wonderfully well lived. Tony Lynch (class of 84)

I only knew Erik in recent years when we were both on the board of the Alexander Turnbull Library Endowment Trust. But that was enough to come to highly respect him and to greatly enjoy his company. I was immensely impressed with his first volume NZ history and very much hope his second volume at least can be published.