John Taylor
Topics: regional development, Lake Hāwea, schooling, farming, community and events
John Taylor’s parents established Taylors Garage in Hāwea Flat in 1949 and built Lake Hāwea Store in 1958.
He enjoyed the freedom of growing up in the area with three brothers and attending Hāwea Flat Primary School during a time of huge growth, especially during the Ministry of Works dam build. He went to boarding school and university in Christchurch, and in 1970 returned to work for the family business, Taylors Implements Ltd, servicing farm machinery during the time of government SMP (Supplementary Minimum Price) scheme to farmers, and later setting up Taylors’ Mowtown, in Wānaka, a small engines business.
Early involvement in the Upper Clutha Tramping Club, the Lake Hāwea volunteer fire brigade and Wānaka Search & Rescue began a commitment to community involvement. He tells of the impact of new lake levels and dust clouds, which led to the formation of Guardians of Lake Hāwea. He was also involved in the Lake Hāwea Community Association, creating early solutions to freedom camping, and later worked with the Lake Hāwea ANZAC Committee.
Interviewed by Heather Knox
Lake Hāwea Store, built by Hilary & Wattie Taylor 1958. Under construction. From left to right: Ron Thompson, Michael Taylor & Uncle Thompson.
Taylors Garage on Camphill Road, Hawea Flat, 1960s
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