Promises, Promises: A lively history of political advertising, from the first election of the modern era in 1938 to today

Professor Claire Robinson, Pro Vice-Chancellor, Toi Rauwharangi College of Creative Arts at Massey University, has been researching political advertising in the Turnbull and the result is her just-published book, Promises Promises: 80 years of wooing New Zealand voters (MUP). The book is a lively, insightful history of political advertising from 1939 until today, illustrated with over 550 images of campaign material, largely sourced from the ATL. Claire’s research focus has always been on political design so her analysis is both penetrating and original. However for many it offers a trip down memory lane; these advertisements are unique snapshots in time. Claire noted just how little difference there has been between the two main parties over the last 80 years. They have both proffered happiness to be delivered through growth and consumerism – sadly neither have seemingly delivered.