Willie Parau Browne

William Parau Browne (17 February 1884 – 14 November 1957) was a Cook Islands businessman and politician. He served as a member of the Legislative Council during the 1950s.

Willie Parau Browne
Member of the Legislative Council
Member of Rarotonga Island Council
Personal details
Born17 February 1884
Died14 November 1957(1957-11-14) (aged 73)
ProfessionBusinessman

Biography

The son of a European trader,[1] Browne was one of the most prominent businessmen in the Cook Islands. He owned the Royal Hall, which for many year was the only cinema in Rarotonga.[2] Prior to films being screened, he would drive around the island handing out flyers,[2] and would give running commentaries on the films in Māori.[3] He frequently hosted parties at his home in the village of Nikao.[2]

Browne was also involved in politics was elected to Rarotonga Island Council during World War I. He remained a member until 1947. When he was re-elected in 1950, he also became a member of the Legislative Council covering the whole Cook Islands.[2]

Browne was married twice, remarrying after his first wife Tuvaine Tamarua died.[4] He died in November 1957 at the age of 73.[2]

References
  1. Cook Islands culture, University of the South Pacific, p197
  2. Mr. W.P. (Willie) Browne Pacific Islands Monthly, January 1958, p132
  3. COMLA Newsletter, Issues 73-78, Commonwealth Library Association, p25
  4. Makea contender wanting to rewrite history? Cook Islands Herald, 13 October 2008
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