Peter King

Early Life and Military Career

Born in Caxton, Cambridgeshire, King began his military service in 1939 with the British Army Dental Corps. Eager for combat, he and a fellow soldier independently launched an unauthorized raid into occupied France in 1942. Despite facing court-martial upon their return, King’s determination led him to join No. 4 Commando, where he participated in significant World War II operations, including the D-Day landings. His bravery earned him a field commission and the Military Cross.

After the war, King emigrated to New Zealand in 1946. He briefly returned to military service during the Korean War with the New Zealand Army, where he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order in 1951 for his exemplary conduct under fire.

Role in Westland National Park

In 1960, King became the first Chief Park Ranger of Westland National Park. His tenure was marked by significant contributions to conservation and park management. Tragically, his service was cut short when he died in a car accident on 12 December 1962, en route to a board meeting in Hokitika.

Personal Life

King married Dorothy Woodham Graham in 1959. The couple had two children. Dorothy later became a noted historian, preserving the rich history of the Westland region.

Peter King’s legacy as a war hero and pioneering conservationist continues to be remembered in both military and environmental circles.

This summary is taken from an online source. It provides a brief outline of the work that Perer King undertook while Chief Ranger of Westland Tai Poutini National Park: