Description: British Empire Games, 1950. Photographer: Unidentified Date: 1950 Archival reference: AAPG 25263 W3939 Box 1 www.archway.archives.govt.nz/ViewFullItem.do?code=2843469

On February 4 1950, the British Empire Games started. This sporting event was the precursor to what is now known as the Commonwealth Games. The games took place in Auckland, New Zealand and the main stadium used was Eden Park. The games were the first to be held after a 12 year break due to World War 2.

Australia ended up topping the medals table, with England coming second and New Zealand third. The film footage shown here is from a National Film Unit clip titled Empire Games 1950. The comprehensive footage shows a summary of the opening ceremony of the games and key moments from various sporting events. The National Film Unit was established to publicise New Zealand's participation and achievements during the Second World War. After 1945 the Film Unit expanded from producing weekly newsreels to making documentaries and films to the order of Government Departments. During its existence the Film Unit produced films for national organisations as well as many films on its own initiative. The private film industry in New Zealand relied heavily on the National Film Unit's extensive film processing facilities.

The image above is from a series of film and production stills produced by the National Film Unit. Taken at the Empire Games, it shows a film crew capturing an unidentified swimmer competing in the games.

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