Death of noted neuro-surgeon

Press, Volume CXIV, Issue 33425, 5 January 1974, Page 4

Death of noted neuro-surgeon

(<Y.Z. Press Association) . AUCKLAND. Mr Donald Dixon MejKenzie, C.M.G., F.R.Q.S., IF.R.A.S., for many years a leading Auckland neuro-surgeon, has died! in Auckland, aged 71. Born in Victoria, Australia, ;Mr McKenzie was one of I i three brothers who have [made their mark either in 'New Zealand medicine or 'education. He completed his I initial medical degrees at Otago University before he was 21. When he returned from Britain after his first period of overseas study, he brought with him at his own expense I the first radium needles used I for cancer treatment in New ! Zealand . I Mr McKenzie specialised in i brain and spine surgery from i 1937 and. after study in the

United States, established the neuro-surgical unit at Auckland Hospital. He joined the N.Z.E.F. in the Middle East in 1940 and served overseas for more than four years. In 1958 he received the C.M.G. for distinguished services to medicine. The development of St Kentigern College, Auckland, occupied his keenest interest. As an active member of the trust board, he was frequently a spokesman for private schools in negotiations in Wellington. Farming, and especially the breeding of stock on a property at Helensville, occupied much of his time in retirement.

He is survived by his wife and a son. Dr Campbell McKenzie, a former superintendent of Timaru Hospital, and Mr I. F. McKenzie, of Howick, a former registrar of the University of New Zealand, are brothers.