David Lange reportedly turned to Alley at the presentation and said...
"New Zealand has had many great sons, but you, Sir, are our greatest son."
A photo of David Lange and Rewi Alley together at that occasion is part of the collection on display at Heritage House until May 19.
The exhibition also includes photos of Alley's 60 years work in China, first for the Gung Ho cooperatives, then the Bailie Technical Schools, and finally for the NZ Peace Council and the global Peace Movement.
The collection has been collated by the Shanghai People's Friendship Association and the NZ-China Friendship Society.
Samples of Alley's writing, artefacts and personal memorabilia loaned by his family and friends is also on display and a documentary series of Alley's life made by the National Film Unit (NHNZ) and China Central Television will be screening at the exhibition.
Convener Jan McLeod will be on hand to answer questions and she asks that visitors encourage young people to check it out too.
The Rewi Alley Commemorative Exhibition is on at Heritage House, 136 St Hill Street from 10am-4pm Monday to Sunday, until May 19. Admission is free.