Peter regales us with stories of his life as a young boy and the family “crib” on the shores of Bremner Bay. He reflects on the building process over two decades, as well as championing the monitoring of the environment for future generations.

Susan describes childhood memories, fire brigade work, and early Treble Cone tow servicing. After high school, she developed her art and has been involved with the Wānaka Spinners and Weavers, the artisans’ co-op, the Sunday craft market, the Autumn Art School and Community Arts Council grants.

Don Robertson provides some background to the formation of the Guardians of Lake Wānaka, as well as discussing WAI Wānaka and Citizen Science. He is a keen observer of the lakes’ plant life and an advocate for preserving the quality of water for future generations. 

Dee Gordon reflects on her involvement in local community groups and events, such as Plunket, Pony Club, the A&P Show, and her later work in establishing Aspiring Retirement Village.

Graham has left his mark on the Wānaka community in a multitude of ways through his involvement in various community groups. He discusses the creation of seats, sculptures and even a windmill to commemorate our past.

Ethel discusses her life in Albert Town. She describes the changes in the area, from helping Grandma cater for the community, raising a family, community fundraising, and becoming involved in running the family ‘workshop’.

Diana talks about her childhood in Wānaka including tales of her family adventures, and her later experience as a working mother. She reflects on her many community contributions and learning te reo Māori.

Jan discusses her job as Radiographer and Practice Manager of the Wanaka Medical Centre, meanwhile juggling family and farming responsibilities.

Janet has fond memories of family holidays in Wānaka as a child. She discusses the Upper Clutha Community Arts Council and building a commercial building on the lakefront.

Beryl reflects on managing her home life with running a guiding business and recalls ‘small town’ Wānaka. She discusses the Plunket infant health system and the “PlayCentre” early education for young children.

In her interviews, Jenny Moss discusses education in Wānaka, including the subjects te reo Māori, outdoor education and computer learning.

Helen recalls her childhood on Bendigo Station, along with the challenges and joys of living in the Tarras community. She talks about the changes she has seen in Tarras and identifies changes to come.

Sally lived in Makarora in the 80s and 90s. She discusses tourism in the area and describes her vibrant life there, including re-establishing the Makarora Primary School, establishing a new community centre and improving road links to Wānaka.

Dr Dennis Pezaro was Wānaka’s sole GP for many years. In his 2023 interviews, Dennis covers many subjects, including his work as a GP, medical advancements, establishing medical services for ski fields, his time as Chair of the NZ Medical Association and the Wānaka Concert Society.

Graham Godby moved to Luggate in 1984, working for Upper Clutha Transport. He’s interested in music, rockhounding and jewellery-making. He was also involved in creating the Luggate Fishing Competition.

Carrick Jones recalls his time as a builder and retailer in Wānaka and his wide range of interests, including rugby, yachting, squash, PTA and theatre.

Phill Hunt recalls his childhood memories of helping his father on Fork Farm and taking over the farm as a young man. He also discusses his many volunteering roles in local community groups.

Elizabeth (Lizzie) Carruthers is a Maungawera valley based artist, and she discusses her process and exhibitions around Central Otago and beyond.

Bill Gibson was born into farming life at Malvern Downs, Tarras. He tells us about different breeds of sheep, artificial insemination and early Sheep Dog Trials.

Anne recalls her time volunteering at Warbirds Over Wānaka, the 1999 floods and her involvement in various community groups.