“A legend in his own lifetime” said Prime Minister David Lange after meeting Rewi in 1985. He was a man of real energy and strong convictions who wanted to help change the social order. At the same time a very practical man who strove to bring a better life to the ordinary Chinese person. Today there are closer ties between New Zealand and China. In spite of great differences in size, history, culture and values, it is now possible for both nations to appreciate, understand, and learn from each other: a great opportunity due in no small way to the dedicated life of Rewi Alley.
