Ned Dobbs

Arthur Newman Vickery Dobbs (5 July 1915 – 15 October 1988) was a prominent New Zealand public servant known for his contributions to education and the military. Born in Gisborne, he attended Christchurch Boys' High School and earned degrees from Canterbury University College. His career included roles as Squadron Leader in the RNZAF during WWII and various positions in government departments.

Dobbs served as Director-General of Education from 1971 to 1975, leading the integration of private schools into the state system. He faced a libel case after an article in *Clamant I* reported derogatory remarks about him by Education Minister Phillip Amos, which were later denied by Amos during a parliamentary hearing. The case settled with Amos publicly reaffirming Dobbs's contributions and the defendants apologizing.

Dobbs was awarded a CBE in 1976 and survived by his wife, Gwendoline, who established the ANV Dobbs Memorial Scholarship for Christchurch Boys' High School students pursuing economics at university.