Wilding, Cora (1888–1982)

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Wilding, Cora (1888–1982)

New Zealand painter, physiotherapist, health camp organizer, and youth hostel founder. Born Cora Hilda Blanche Wilding, Nov 15, 1888, in Christchurch, New Zealand; died Oct 8, 1982, in Kaikoura, New Zealand; dau. of Frederick Wilding (barrister) and Julia (Anthony) Wilding.

Studied painting at Canterbury College School of Art (1907), and at Bushey School of Painting in Hertfordshire (1910); trained as physiotherapist at Dunedin School of Massage (1917), becoming one of New Zealand's first qualified physiotherapists; influenced by New Health Society and Sunlight League in England, returned home to establish Sunlight League of New Zealand, which encouraged physical fitness; organized health camps (1931–36); instrumental in founding Youth Hostels Association of New Zealand; became women's superintendent of Ford Millton Memorial Home for Children near Rangiora (1946); founded Kaikoura Art Group and was involved in mural painting; published Murals for New Zealanders (1946); participated in opening Cora Wilding Youth Hostel in Christchurch (1966). Named MBE (1952).

See also Dictionary of New Zealand Biography (Vol. 4).