Mug of Success

Fallout from the Springbok tour, high unemployment and the controversial Think Big policy dominated the New Zealand general election in 1981 but it was Rob's Mob that emerged victorious. This promotional mug, featuring the unmistakable face of Sir Robert Muldoon, marks an election campaign which many expected the National Party to lose.

Despite being dogged by protesters during the campaign Muldoon proved once again to be highly effective and his performance played a major role in National's narrow victory. While National took a beating in the major cities, it was their victories in the provincial towns, including New Plymouth, which saw them return to power.