What are your links to Mercury Bay?
My father was the local policeman and then my parents owned ‘Snapper Jacks’ restaurant.
Where are you living now and how long have you been there?
I have been living in the middle of Washington State USA for seven years. I’ve lived in the USA since 1994.
What are some of the places you have been to in the USA?
I have travelled around a few states.
I started in Lake Havasu Arizona, and have been in California, Oregon, Washington State, Idaho, Montana, Colorado, Georgia, Mississippi and Florida.
Every state is a little bit different and there are definitely pros and cons to each.
Everywhere I’ve been, though, everyone knows New Zealand and all the people I’ve met who have visited, have great reviews for our country.
Personally I enjoy living in central Washington state.
Partly because I own a piece of it and I get lots of sunshine and warmer weather than Seattle. I get to enjoy snow sports during the winter. I’m only a three-hour drive west to Seattle and three hours east to Idaho.
When were you at MBAS?
I started in 1978 when the primary school was behind the Hopping’s campground. We then moved up to the current location and I finished my high school years there.
What have you been doing since leaving school?
The largest part of my working career has been in the building industry. I moved to America and built light-gauge steel mini storage buildings across several states. I moved into residential carpentry and built custom homes around a beautiful mountain lake for years. I’m currently a project manager for a restoration company that deals with fire, flood and insurance companies.
Most proudest achievement?
My son. Second would be becoming Chief of the county Fire Training programme.
Have you ever returned to Mercury Bay?
Not yet. It’s on the bucket list. It looks a lot different from the photos I see.
Fond memories of Mercury Bay?
So many! Swimming at the wharf, swimming at the 309 waterhole. Hot Water Beach! Just being part of a small town. So lucky to have had the opportunity to grow up in an environment that wanted you to be outside and explore.
What do you miss the most about growing up in Whitianga?
Growing up in Whitianga was the best. It’s hard to beat the beach lifestyle and barefooted adventures as a kid. I guess I miss that the most. Ocean air and the sound of the waves. I definitely miss fresh fish and chips!
I get care packages from home every so often with Marmite and Peanut slabs. So I get to share a little bit of the New Zealand lifestyle with American friends.
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