Places

Date: 15 Nov 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Waiwai, Te Wiremu Ngahere Enoka, 1924-1998

Reference: OHInt-0003/30

Description: Bill Waiwai talks about origins of names; ancestors; some of his ancestors' history; reference to Waikaremoana; Waikato Land Wars; Horako; Ruatahuna; Te Kooti; grandfather, Enoka; Te Wiremu Ngahere of Ngati Manawa; Tengaroahiahi Tanaroa; father, Unuhia Ngahere; Murupara; the Tuhoe Tribes; Kahungungu; canoe Horouta. Describes family background; mother, Tengaroahiahi Tanaroa; father, Haami Enoka Waiwai; Maori language; seasonal work parents engaged upon; discipline; early memories of the building of Tuai Hydro Station; religion, Ringatu Church; contact with Pakeha; school at Kokako Native School; punishment for speaking Maori as school; cadet training; music; Tuhoe traditions, tribal folklore, Mataatua Canoe. Recalls first job at Cobb Power Scheme, Takaka, 1938; the hotels; details of sandblasting work; as linesman on Zig Zag Transmission Line, details of clearing bush between Canvastown and Nelson; work on an oil tanker for eight months to Santiago, South America; service for the Maori Battalion, 2nd NZEF during World War II in Middle East and Italy. Recalls working as labourer at the construction of the Kaitawa Hydro Station; overseer, Laurie Stevenson; training as a diver (problems with leaks at lake outlet); work at Kaituna Hydro Scheme; rigger / labourer at Mangakino, Waikato River Projects, 1949-1961; type of work as a rigger; describes Mangakino Camp; sly grogging at camp; gambling; reference to fights between Maori, Polynesians, Pakeha; headed Maori Wardens' Association in district, describes roles; politics on the marae; food at the camp; racial discrimination between Maori and Pakeha in relation to alcohol, Lodges. Discusses use of historic Maori land for hydro schemes; conflict over tangi leave; burial grounds under water; reference to construction superintendents, Bob Brown and Colin Lennon; engineers, Jim Macky and Colin McLeod; marriage; sport, especially golf; work as overseer at Matahina Hydro Project, 1960s; the dangers of tunnelling; reference to Bill Robins, Construction Superintendent, Jack Chesterman and Allan Howarth; work as overseer at Tongariro (Geothermal) Power Scheme; details of canals dug into Lake Rotoaira; environmental concerns about the scheme. Gives summary of career; discusses lack of Maori in senior positions; lack of opportunities given; work as overseer at New Plymouth Thermal Power Station; engineers and practical information and experience; work as Construction Superintendent at Ohaaki Geothermal Power Station, 1983-1988; the delegation of authority; hiring and firing; as active member of New Zealand Workers' Union (before going onto staff); reasons for early retirement. Access Contact - oral history librarian Venue - Cambridge Interviewer(s) - Hugo Manson Venue - Mr Waiwai's home at 85 Thompson Street, Cambridge Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001870 - OHC-001873 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 291. Search dates: 1924 - 1988 Processing information: Access conditions updated 16 November 2023.

Date: 15 Sep 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Wise, Henry Robert, 1899-1991

Reference: OHInt-0003/31

Description: Bob Wise describes family background; childhood; practical work at railway workshops during electrical engineering course; overcoming childhood stammer; struggle completing engineering degree at Canterbury; mentions 5-6 months at School of Mines; early interest in electricity and hydraulics; joining Asburton Electric Power Board as assistant engineer; basic training from Peter Kemp; meetings informing public of electric reticulation; meeting Christina Isabel Taylor in 1929 and marriage; background to getting position of engineer at Waitaki Electric Power Board, 1926-1933; reference Ken Spooner, Ike Dalmer, Norman Davidson; effect of influenza epidemic, 1918; differences between urban and rural reticulation; salary; recruiting people from Ashburton Electric Power Board; reference Paul Frebury. Discusses training linesmen; reference Clarrie Sullivan, Jack Merrick, Charlie Butcher; erecting poles; wiring poles; dispute with Robert Milligan, Chairman Waitaki Power Board; reasons for leaving and working for G T Gillies Limited, in Oamaru as engineer and later consulting engineer; backgrounds Gillies' personality and work; role as Deputy Chief Inspector of Munitions in army during World War II; the filling (munitions) factory at the Ford plant; reference Alan McClelland, first lieutenant; story relating to the high rejection rate of 11,000 volt insulators by National Electric in Temuka. Recalls work as consultant for rural water schemes for the Waitaki County Council, late 1950s; community scheme for improving irrigation at Oamaru; work as consultant engineer at the West Coast Power Schemes, 1955-1974; scheme for Harihari to produce own power; similar scheme for Whataroa; reference to Amethyst Power Co; worked with New Zealand Electricity Department to organise power for Haast; relationship with G T Gillies and consultancy work; work of the Rural Electricity Reticulation Council; put case to government for National Grid to be extended from Hokitika to Harihari; formation of Amethyst Electric Power Board. Describes work as member then chairman of the Waitaki Electric Power Board; moving from an operational role to a policy role; role of power board; politics involved; relationship between board and government; power cuts after World War II; advantages of having an engineering background on board; the fascination of electricity; alternating current versus direct current; future of electric power generation in New Zealand; nuclear power; reference to Duffill, Watt and King of Dunedin; enjoyment of work. Accompanying material - Copy of entry from 'Who's who' - 1979 (?), p 291 Venue - Oamaru Interviewer(s) - Hugo Manson Venue - Mr Wise's home at 8a Lune Street, Oamaru Quantity: 4 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3.30 Hours and minutes Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 292. Search dates: 1988

Date: 3 October 2011 - 03 Oct 2011

From: Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ) Engineering New Zealand oral history project

By: Hutching, Megan Alannah, 1957-; Butcher, Barry John, 1930-2020

Reference: OHInt-0965-08

Description: Interview with Barry Butcher, conducted 3 October 2011. Interview discusses family history, education, and his professional career as an engineer, including his experiences at a Ministry of Works camp at Lake Hawea. Also discusses Roxburgh hydro project, Benmore dam, Rarotonga airport in the Cook Islands, and other work projects. Abstracted by - Megan Hutching Interviewer(s) - Megan Hutching Quantity: 1 interview(s). 3 Electronic document(s) Microsoft Word files. 1 digital sound recording(s) digital sound recording(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 3.42 Hours and minutes Duration. Physical Description: Sound files - wave files; Textual files - Microsoft Word Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete. Search dates: 1900 - 2011 Number of interviews/events: 1

Date: 29 Apr, 6 May 2009 - 29 Apr 2009 - 06 May 2009

From: Honouring seniors oral history project

By: Gunson, Kenneth Desmond, 1926-

Reference: OHInt-0979-04

Description: Interview with Kenneth (Ken) Desmond Gunson, born in Purewa, Northland in 1926. Describes his early childhood, as the youngest of five children raised on a small farm adjacent to gumfields, by a father who was a grader driver for Whangarei County Council, and a mother who kept large gardens and maintained the family's self-sufficiency. Talks about his dislike of school, which he left at 14, and the variety of work he did from childhood, including cutting firewood, working as a farrier, blacksmith, grader driver, and sawmill worker. Talks about hunting for birds, pigs, rabbits and hares. Tells of meeting his wife at a dance in Frankton. Descibes his main job, working on county roads as a grader driver which included roadmaking and making airstrips in isolated back country of the district. Talks about his workmates, and their recreations: dancing, going to the pictures, and various sports. Discusses the family backgrounds of both parents, and their life stories. Talks about Maori history of the district, and lists names of pakeha families who settled there. Interviewer(s) - Patricia Cutforth Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHDL-001253 Quantity: 1 digital sound recording(s). 2 Electronic document(s) - abstract. 1 printed abstract(s). 1 digital photograph(s). 7 electronic scan(s) of original black and white photographic print(s). 2 electronic scan(s) of original colour photographic print(s). 1 interview(s) over 2 days. 1.43 Hours and minutes Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHDL-001262, OHA-7482. Digital photograph of Ken Gunson and family (2009). Scanned B&W or sepia photographs of: Lizzie cars gone to the beach; Ken and older brother ploughing for potatoes (1930); Gunson kids off to school on horseback (1934); Grace and Ken Gunson (1941); Ken Gunson (1949); Ken Gunson and new Whangarei District Council Cat grader (2 photos, 1965). Scanned colour photographs of: Ken Gunson - farrier demonstration (1974); Ken Gunson (2004) Search dates: 1926 - 2009

Date: 13 Apr 1999

From: Southland oral history project

By: McGilvray, Madeline, active 1998; Killeen, James Columbian, 1906-2000

Reference: OHInt-0464/11

Description: James Killeen was born in Galway, Ireland in 1906. Gives details of his parents' backgrounds, the village where he was born and why he came to New Zealand. Mentions the Black and Tans. Describes leaving Galway in 1929 and his impressions of Invercargill on arriving in 1930. Describes working at the Fortification sawmill before labouring on buildings in Invercargill. Mentions H and J Smiths. Describes working on the Te Anau to Milford highway in very difficult working and living conditions. Notes that three hundred men worked on the team. Describes work `stumping' (pulling out tree remainders). Talks about meeting his wife Kathleen Lardner in Riverton, their marriage and children. Describes joining the prison service in 1940 and working at Mount Crawford, Arohata and Invercargill. Mentions also working at the Ocean Beach Freezing Works and Kew Hospital. Interviewer(s) - Madeline McGilvray Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-008614 - OHC-008615 Quantity: 2 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 1.30 Hours and minutes Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - other brief abstract OHA-2688. Photo of James and Kathleen Killeen; photo of James Killeen possibly at the time of the interview

Date: 12 Oct 1983

From: Interviews about Rotorua by Don Stafford

By: Lord, George Oscar, 1903-1986

Reference: OHInt-0470/17

Description: Oscar Lord was born in Auckland in 1903. Describes leaving the family farm at Taneatua and becoming a ganger on the railway line between Te Puke and Taneatua. Focuses on working on the gang. Gives details of living and working conditions on his next job on the Rotorua-Taupo railway line in 1928. Notes that 150 men were employed and the project stopped abruptly. Describes how the men were transferred to other jobs and he went to a road-building job near Opoutama. Recalls returning to the farm at Taneatua, hard work on the farm and conflict over the division of the land. Talks about his subsequent work reclaiming land at Whakatane, managing a dairy farm at Otakiri and working for his brother Frank at Rotorua. Interviewer(s) - Don Stafford Quantity: 1 C60 cassette(s). 1 transcript(s). 1 interview(s). Finding Aids: Abstract Available - transcript(s) available OHA-2865.

Date: 30 Dec 1992 - 4 Jun 1994 - 04 Jun 1994

From: Memories of the Kaipara oral history project : Part one

By: Hooper, Phyllis May, 1903-2002

Reference: OHInt-0430/06

Description: Phyllis Hooper was born in Warkworth in 1903 and moved to Wayby with her family when she was three. Talks about deliveries of groceries and mail. Recalls a bad flood, basic living conditions and her family being given use of the shop behind the house in return for care of the shop and telephone. Describes how telegrams came through. Recalls the building of a store by the Civil brothers at Wellsford and the closure of the Wayby shop when the railway went through. Recalls problems stabilising banks for the railway. Describes large camps of workers associated with the railway construction. Recalls walking to school, jobs after school and various games. Describes problems with teachers at the school during World War I, going to Wellsford for proficiency and failing. Talks about resitting it and attending St Cuthberts as a weekly boarder. Describes being taught music in Wellsford by Connie Balance and at St Cuthberts by Mrs Archdale Tayler. Recalls how their family got a piano and an organ. Describes how school finished early in 1918 because of the flu epidemic and how some of the children were quarantined at school for six weeks. Mentions the announcement of the Armistice during the flu epidemic and the effect of celebrations on some flu victims. Talks about Dr Meinhold of Helensville and his knowledge of the `plague' (the flu) from Germany. Talks about beginning to teach music in 1920, teaching technique and her parents move to Tauhoa. Describes her weekly journeys between there and Helensville on a horse. Describes marrying in 1928, her husband's singing lessons and their nightly recitals. Recalls being in a singing group with the Women's Division Federated Farmers (WDFF) and playing the piano and organ for the church and Sunday school. Describes hearing visiting pianists Fritz Kreister and Paderewski. Interviewer(s) - Beverley Bennett Quantity: 2 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHA-3328.

Date: 08 Jun 2006 to 18 Sep 2006 - 08 Jun 2006 - 18 Sep 2006

By: Mackenzie Centre Community Trust; Foley, Jacqueline, 1951-

Reference: OHColl-0829

Description: Interviews with those who worked on the hydro electric dam projects in the Mackenzie Basin and residents in towns nearby. The hydro dam systems include the Upper Waitaki system and the Waitaki system. The interviewees are, Michael Higgins, Sid Hurst, Peter Law, Struan Munro, Barry Phibbs, Esta Phibbs, Marion Sheridan, Max Smith and Alistair Wills. Abstracted by - Jacquie Foley Interviewer(s) - Jacqui Foley Quantity: 15 C60 cassette(s). 9 printed abstract(s). 9 interview(s). Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete.

Date: 13 Sep 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Smith, Sydney Maxwell John, 1926-

Reference: OHInt-0003/29

Description: Max Smith describes family background; childhood in Christchurch during the depression (1930s); discipline; chores; religion; family's politics; music; drinking; education at Waddington Primary School, Christchurch; Christchurch Technical College; social stratification in schools; holiday jobs; academic qualifications; recalls first job as draughting cadet, Public Works Department, Napier, 1944; Bill Milne, the draughtsman in charge; learning to print; filing of plans; salary; social life within Department; Bob Milne's anti-establishment views; reference to Jack Durie, 'Laddie' Lodge, Alex Dingle, Don Croll, Gordon Redwood, Dorothy Pilson; shortage of males due to the war. Discusses aspects of the Waikaremoana Hydro Scheme, 1939-1945, primative technology in construction; at Whangarei as engineering cadet; draughting training in road and bridge design; lack of machinery used in construction; R C Lough, draughtsman in charge; describes role of Public Works Department after World War II; negative attitude to public servants by public; contact with Maori; learning surveying; reference to Les Bell, Les May, Bill McMeekin; transferred to Auckland in 1946; reference to Bob Semple and his ten year district plans; surveys for underground railways, motorways, harbour bridge in Auckland; worked on Tamaki Navy Training Base at Motuihi. Recalls work at Mangakino; miles of pipeline; investigation shafts; finding concrete aggregate supply; single men's camp; social life; differences between tunnellers and other workers; division of Ministry of Works into workers and staff; graduation from the Engineers' Institution Course, Canterbury University, 1950-1951; role as assistant engineer, Ministry of Works in Taranaki; responsibilities; roading work; radar station. Describes becoming Engineer, Ministry of Works, Ohakune, 1953; climate; soil conditions; details of equipment; reference to Reg Hackett, Bill O'Hara; describes scene of Tangiwai rail disaster, 1953; road building in Ohakune area; planning priorities; roadmen as a 'breed'; attitude to work; reference to Bill (?) Blythe, Tim Whale, John De Lambert; living conditions; transport; availability of alcohol; two years in Head Office, Wellington, mainly bridge design; worked as Engineer, Hydro Investigations on Kaituna River, Lake Tarawera, Lake Okataina, Rangitaiki River, Whakatane River, Waimana River, Motu River, Waioeka River; trouble with Matahina Dam. Discusses first big engineering task, building diversion culvert at Benmore Power Station, 1959-1962; man management talents; details of diverting river; gained Stevenson Award, overseas research trip to United States; explains fundamentals of earth dam; visited Canada, Scotland; details of responsibilities as resident engineer, Aviemore Hydro Scheme; problems involved especially flooding; the 'hype' of building a dam; power shortages; relations with union. Describes work in Waitaki Valley as project engineer; unofficial mayor of Twizel; management style; social hierarchy in Twizel; conflict with Ministry of Works leading to early retirement; reference to rowing course. Venue - Amberley Interviewer(s) - Hugo Manson Venue - Mr Smith's home at Sandhurst, RD 3, Amberley Accompanying material - Copies of newspaper articles as follows:- 'Breaking up a skilled workforce 'a disaster'', Evening Post, 28 Feb 1983; 'Staff dispersal seen as disaster', Dominion, 28 Feb 1983; 'Engineer sees policy as insult', Press (?) or Greymouth paper (?); 'Rundown of MWD a "national disaster"', PSA Journal, March 1983. Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001870 - OHC-001873 Quantity: 4 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3.30 Hours and minutes Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 290. Black and white photographs:-. Max Smith, 1988. Max Smith, Twizel, ca 1982 Search dates: 1926 - 1988

Date: 26 Nov 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Duggan, Daniel John, 1933-2015

Reference: OHInt-0003/22

Description: Dan Duggan outlines family background; early childhood spent on farm at Whangaehu; impact of involvement with union on his wife and children; Maori involvement with union; reference to Henry de Thierry, Peter Biddle, Morris (?) Meads, Diane Burns; education programmes in union; union membership of the New Zealand Workers' Union compared 1960s to 1980s; attitudes towards self-employed contractors, co-operatives; reference Forestry Corporation, Forestry Contractors' Association, New Zealand Timberlands Limited, State Services Commission; negotiations involving poultry industry and tobacco industry. Describes progress through union ranks; attitude to negotiations; details of education; work as shop assistant, apprentice painter, glazier, farmer; marriage to Patricia Frost; work as a male nurse, Lake Alice Hospital, 1965; reference to social work and Oakley Hospital; Harold Wright, head nurse; standing for parliament as Labour candidate in 1969, election campaign, result; background of appointment of organiser for the New Zealand Workers' Union in 1969; upheaval in union involving theft, abuse of privilege, violence; role in crisis; reference to Robert Muldoon, Bill Dempster, Trevor Campbell, Jimmy Hill, John Sylvester, Bill Anderson. Discusses the 1972 crisis in detail with reference to Norm Verrall, Sam Wilson, Des O'Regan, Jack Abbott, Ivan Reddish, Dan Long, Stan Rodger, Jim Knox, Norman Kirk, Tom Skinner, Harold Duncan, Harold Kelliher. Describes relationship between union and Ministry of Works; acting as an unofficial spokesman for Ministry of Works; compares it with private enterprise; recalls the cooperation of commissioners of works; system of local union secretaries on construction sites; reference to Jack Chesterman, Colin McLeod and Mike Williams; employment conditions in Ministry of Works; the Public Service Tribunal; reference to Harold Duncan, industrial lawyer; issues in 1970s, wage increases, back pay, allowances. Discusses the Works Corporation dismantling the system; problems that may be caused by change of Labour Relations Act, reference to Marsden Point, Kawerau, Cromwell, New Plymouth, New Zealand Steel; assessments of power requirements of future; environmental backlashes; attitude toward conservationists; creation of jobs; the infrastructure of small contractors; reference to membership on Landcorp Board; conflict between Labour Party and union; importance of labour laws; record of industrial disputes with Ministry of Works; politicians dealt with; dismissal procedures developed in union; major issue facing union members. Access Contact - See oral history librarian Venue - Wellington Interviewer(s) - Judith Fyfe Venue - Dan Duggan's home at 23 Wakely Road, Newlands, Wellington Accompanying material - Copy of two page information brochure from the New Zealand Workers' Union Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001847 - OHC-001849 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 283. Search dates: 1933 - 1988

Date: 22 May 1984

From: NZOHA New Zealand Computer Society Silver Jubilee Oral History Project

By: Robinson, John Vernon, 1926-2015

Reference: OHInt-0093/11

Description: John Robinson was born 31 Dec 1926 at Geraldine. Describes family background, childhood in South Canterbury, education, farming, university scholarship to Canterbury University. Discusses National Research Scholarship at the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, PhD in Structural Engineering; work at the DSIR Dominion Physical Laboratory, part of the Concrete Research Section. Talks about secondment to Ministry of Works, Roxburgh, for practical experience; 1956 Foreign Student Summer Fellowship, Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Discusses Ministry of Works, Central Experimental Laboratory, Gracefield, for practical engineering research using scale models. Describes first computer contact with the Whirlwind Computer at MIT, Ministry of Works close interest in the Treasury computer in 1959, involvement in development of government computing. Talks about advantages of computer for calculating and statistical work in traffic engineering, roading, other engineering applications. Recalls first programming course taken by IBM's Bruce Moon, computer as a tool in professional work. Speaks of first Treasury computer: how it worked, programming for it, shared use with other departments, need to use it profitably, long hours worked. Recalls 1963-1964 Harkness Fellowship at MIT to work on the application of computing to engineering, working with Charlie Miller. Returned to the new specialist Systems Section at the Ministry of Works, use of bureau machines, need to hire a complete machine and opposition to that. Talks about the New Zealand Computer Society, Gordon Oed, Errol Jones, first National Conference in Auckland, local manufacture of software and hardware, Progeni, competition between hardware suppliers. Explains different generations of computers, type of people suited to computing, computer industry and politicians, effects of computers on New Zealand society. Venue - Wellington Interviewer(s) - Hugo Manson Venue - Mr Robinson's home in Silverstream Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001570b/001571/001572/001573a Quantity: 4 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHA-0245. Xeroxed photo in project report folder Search dates: 1926 - 1984

Date: 25 Mar 1963

From: Open Country Sound Recordings

Reference: OHInt-0002/037

Description: A recording of the opening of a road from Ohakune to ski fields on Mount Ruapehu. Includes extracts of speeches by the Hon. Stanley Goosman, Minister of Works, N S Coad, Chairman of the Tongariro National Park Board, a descendant of Te Heu Heu, band music, the hangi and official dinner. Access Contact - see oral history librarian Venue - Ohakune Interviewer(s) - Jim Henderson, presenter Venue - NZBC Studios, Wellington, and Ohakune Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHT5-0037 Quantity: 1 5" reel(s). Finding Aids: Abstract Available - other no script available.

Date: 13 Sep 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: McLeod, Ella Margaret, 1921-2011; McLeod, Norman Colin, 1921-

Reference: OHInt-0003/26

Description: Ella Mcleod describes family background; childhood, particularly discipline, religion, education, alcohol, smoking, health; education at Karori Primary School and Wellington Girls College; employment, reference New Zealand Insurance Co; nursing training; nursing at Wellington Hospital; describes doing public speaking course - shyness; development of relationship with Colin. Colin McLeod recalls family background; father's work with the Public Works Department; childhood: discipline, religion, alcohol, smoking, music, reading, sport; education; enjoyment of school; memorable teachers at Canterbury University, Professor J E L Culls (?); practical work for degree; background to employment in design office of Public Works Department; service during World War II, work on coastal defences, army service in 6th Field Company ending war in Trieste, Italy, benefits of war experience, reaction to return to civilian life. Recalls work as engineer at Mangakino (1948 - 1960); salary at start; first house; J T Gilkison as project engineer; training; sense of community; describes Mangakino; workers' union; Householders' Association; reference to YMCA; Waikato Hydro Welfare Association; staff housing; social hierarchy; reference to Arnold Clark (?), Jim Macky, Bill Bell; first impressions; early feelings of Ella McLeod; importance of tunnellers; artificial nature of settlement; power shortages post World War II; shortage of labour; immigrant workers. Ella McLeod describes making own entertainment; harsh climate; cinema; babysitting system; clubs; community involvement; the infective hepatitis epidemic (1957); childbirth; lack of major health problems in community; few deaths; giving lectures to St John Ambulance, Red Cross. Colin Mcleod discusses worker turnover; single men's camps; strikes; the volunteer fire brigade; Maori integration and comparison of standards of living between Maori and Pakeha; details first strike before arrival; co-operative contracts for engineers; tactics of workers' union; details second strike in 1951; impact on women; fatal accident on Waipapa Dam and union reaction; union loyalties. Both discuss political feelings; Ella McLeod's membership of Wellington Hospital Board since 1974 and her public awards; her enjoyment of leadership roles; the effect of going to United States on both their lives; circumstances of Ella's appointment as JP in Mangakino. Colin Mcleod recalls trauma involved when Maraetai II was closed down in 1960; procedures for rendering site safe. Colin describes work as District Commissioner of Works, Hamilton (1964 - 1966); learning how the Department worked at district level; reference to P L Laing (Commissioner of Works, 1965 - 1969); involvement with local authorities; details of the Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship, 1966; work as Director, National Water and Soil Conservation Authority (1966 - 1971); reference to Water Polution Act, 1954; finding ways of issuing water rights; Water Allocation Council, reference to Chairman, Percy Allen; colleagues, Gordon Walker and Don McGill; work as Commissioner of Works (1973 - 1981); planning of Albany Development, Auckland; role; duties; ministers worked under; strain of job as Commissioner. Access Contact - see oral history librarian Venue - Wellington Interviewer(s) - Judith Fyfe Venue - Mr and Mrs McLeod's home at 8 Astor Street, Karori, Wellington Accompanying material - Copies of two brief typed CVs; Copy of brief biography of Colin McLeod in Notable New Zealanders, p 311; Copy of brief biography of Colin McLeod in Who's who, 1979, p 187. Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001859 - OHC-001862 Quantity: 4 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3.30 Hours and minutes Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 287. Black and white photographs of:-. Colin McLeod, 1988. Ella McLeod, 1988. Ella and Colin McLeod, Christmas 1964 Search dates: 1921 - 1988

Date: 5 Dec 1988 - 05 Dec 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Macky, James Henderson, 1913-2002

Reference: OHInt-0003/27

Description: Jim Macky describes family background; reference to 'The Macky Family in New Zealand'; childhood; practical work for civil engineering training; early interest in engineering; university training at Auckland and Canterbury Universities, early 1930s; reference to Professor Cull (?); role as engineer at Buller Gorge Railway, late 1930s, for Public Works Department; details of work of concrete technician; mentions 1938 election; reference overseers, Jim Delich, Bill Cadigon, Matt Heffernan; the compressed air operation in bridge construction; experience of the 'bends'; other major constructions; tunnelling; local rugby; reference to Mike Senior, Gordon Fraser, Archie Park. Recalls service in World War II, building railway depots in Italy and Middle East; methods of railway construction, especially completing railway between Beirut and Tripoli; sent to Turkey to plan bases for British army; malaria; marriage; role after the war as engineer at Kaitawa and Karapiro for Ministry of Works; penstock construction; reference district engineer Napier, Jack Gilkinson; role as mechanical engineer at Karapiro; describes Jack Gilkison; final quality of Karapiro job; lack of equipment; reference to Alan Scott, 'the best policeman in New Zealand'; labour mostly manpowered; conditions at camp; Jack Gilkinson's plans for Ministry of Works' camps; visit of Bob Semple and E R McKillop. Discusses reason for being sent to Maraetai as senior engineer in late 1940s; details of planning and mixing concrete; design of metal crushing plant for road metal; type of rock used; details of being in charge of the diversion tunnel; leakage problems due to ignimbrite; details of drilling and filling; Maori employees at Maraetai, reference Jack Judah (?), Mason McDonald, Kingi Taui, Fergie Ngatai, Joe Tairoa; problems with dam construction at Maraetai; establishment of Maraetai Scheme and village of Mangakino; dry summer of 1945 - 1946; trout fishing; the Mangakino community; how set up socially; reference to the Mangakino Hydro Welfare Association; social stratificaton. Recalls role as Resident Engineer at Maraetai; describes George Sherman, overseer; reference to Arnold Clark, Bob Brown, Sid Drinkrow; accidents; relationship with designers at head office; role as project engineer at Mangakino in late 1950s; trip to America to look at latest construction methods and equipment; repairing cracks at Whakamaru Dam; industrial relations; discusses Len Clapham and his effect on many building sites; reference Don Ross, Jock Barnes, Basil Jones; reference to Communists; reference to Sir Basil Arthur. Describes work as Inspecting Engineer in early sixties; work as Director of Roading; funding for Auckland motorway system; travelling; beautification of highways; describes ministers of works, Stan Goosman, Percy Allen, Hugh Watt; describes job as Commissioner of Works in early seventies; dealing with politicians; retirement; mentions being director at Tasman Pulp and Paper Co Limited. Access Contact - see oral history librarian Venue - Taupo Interviewer(s) - Hugo Manson Venue - Mr Macky's home at 55 Birch Street, Taupo Accompanying material - Copy of brief biography in Notable New Zealanders, date unknown, p 278; copy of entry in Who's who in New Zealand, 11th ed, 1978; copy of retirement notice in Personal column of New Zealand Engineering, 15 Oct 1973; copy of 'Commissioner farewelled' from Works News, Vol 4, No 3, Spring, 1973; copy of handwritten notes relating to career and aspects of work. Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001863 - OHC-001865 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 288. Black and white photographs:-. Jim and Jean Macky, 1988. Jim Macky, ca 1950 Search dates: 1913 - 1988

Date: 17 September 1989 - 17 Sep 1989

From: Massey University History Department. Students' Oral History Projects.

By: Barry, Michael, active 1989

Reference: OHInt-0151/36

Description: Michael Barry gives details of road work positions he has had in Kaioi and bridge building in the ParaPara Road area. Discusses his social life and importance of rugby in his life; the Depression and the system of working for the dole money. Recalls some of the old characters from hunting, the bush fire in 1918, the Tangiwai disaster and the Wanganui River and how life on the river has changed. Access Contact - see oral history librarian Venue - Wanganui Interviewer(s) - Michael Shenton Venue - 258 Somme Parade, Wanganui Relationship complexity - partial course requirement for oral history paper at Massey University Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-002201; OHLC-002261 Quantity: 1 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 45 Minutes Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB-0392.

Date: 30 Sept 1987 - 30 Sep 1987

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Fookes, Robert William John, 1919-1993

Reference: OHInt-0003/12

Description: Describes family background and childhood with reference to infantile paralysis, reading, religion, politics, alcohol and smoking. Recalls being taught at home and the courses available at Rotorua District High School in mid-thirties, the influence of the Meccano Magazine, the standard of training as a Clerical Cadet in the Public Works Office in Rotorua. Mentions serving overseas with the New Zealand Engineers in World War II, and studies at Canterbury University. Recalls work as a junior engineer at the Ministry of Works in Gisbourne and recalls the effort to catch up on building work disrupted by the war, the conditions of the East Coast highways, land and farming in the Gisbourne area, and heavy earthmoving at the Waioeka Gorge. Refers to job at Wairoa in 1952 where responsibilities were highway work, catchment work, public buildings and the winding up of hydro work at Lake Waikaremoana. Describes power design work, the complications, the relationship with architecture, communications systems, and the public interest in dams. Refers to move to Power Design Office, Ministry of Works and describes the amendments to design that occurs through the construction, the design of sub stations. Backgrounds the reason for Power Design Division being the responsibility of Ministry of Works rather than the New Zealand Electricity Department, the difficulties that the civil designers in Hydro Branch faced, and the attempts to move the Power Division back to the New Zealand Electricity Department. Discusses the planning of the hydroelectric schemes in the 1960s especially the investigations into the schemes, the collaborative system of consultation, the politics involved. Describes the P.A. Management Consultants investigation into the Ministry of Works in the 1960s, the reporting systems, the importance of freedom of action, the problems with 'prima donnas' and also mentions the staff assessment systems. Refers to staff numbers and stability in the Power Design Division over the years. Describes the issues of responsibility relating to being a Chief Design Engineer. Outlines the rules of design for a hydraulic structure, the qualities needed by designers, his experience in stilling basins. Also discusses near failures with design of hydroelectric schemes such as Mangahao, Arapuni, Waitaki, Waikaremoana, Pukari and Matahina. Discusses work as a consultant on a number of local body jobs and outlines the problems involved with consultancy. Access Contact - See oral history librarian Venue - Wellington : 1987 Interviewer(s) - Judith Fyfe Venue - Mr Fookes' home at 14 Cecil Road, Tawa, Wellington Accompanying material - Copy of article outlining appointment to Chief Design Engineer, from New Zealand Engineering, 15 June, 1971 Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001675, 001676, 001677 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 262. Black and white photographs:-. Bill Fookes, 1987. Bill Fookes, 1973. Bill Fookes, c1955. Bill Fookes, 1953. Bill Fookes and Nan Cotter plotting cross sections in the field, 1951 Search dates: 1919 - 1987

Date: 16 Sep 1988

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Lennon, Colin Frederick, 1931-1989

Reference: OHInt-0003/25

Description: Colin Lennon outlines family background; childhood; father, Frederick George Lennon worked for the Public Works Department; family constantly moving; describes Karapiro in 1940s; learning carpentry trade as apprentice at Karapiro and Mangakino for Ministry of Works and Development; single men's camps; wages; social life, rugby, pig hunting, reference Johnny Luckman, Norm Penwarden, Cyril Fisher, Bill Heath; development of Maori land into farms; views on J T Gilkison and Jim Macky; discipline in place for absence without leave; role as leading hand at Mangakino, Wairakei and Atiamuri; setting up of camps; types of immigrants; reference to Charlie Short and Bill Robins; meeting and marriage to Althea Vida Ellery, 1952. Describes Bill Robin's skills; management skills; atmosphere at Mangakino; staff turnover; role as construction superintendent, Ministry of Works and Development, Clutha Valley Development, 1980 - 1989; social problems; self taught personnel / industrial relations skills; how to manage; role as foreman carpenter at Ohakuri Power project in 1961; erection of structural steel and pre-cast slabs; explains 'off-set line'; comparision of accident numbers before and after 1960s; deaths at Karapiro; work pressures and stress. Describes role as overseer at Benmore Power Project, 1962 - 1966; long hours; delays; stress anchor; reference Alan Taylor and Graham Tait; disputes with unions; reference to Aviemore; working with engineers; reference to Max Smith, Resident Engineer at Aviemore; social distinctions; classes of housing relating to staff grading; use of funds raised by welfare society; describes working on Kapuni pipeline; Fletchers as contractors; difficulties with country; descriptions of different crews and functions; weather; problems with land owners. Recalls role as Inspector of Works, New Plymouth Power Project, 1969 - 1974; differences in construction between thermal and hydro construction; high turnover of workers; problems with having to refer to Head Office; role as Construction Superintendent at Huntly Power Project, 1974-1980; training of new workforce; staff turnovers; compares to the stability of workforce on hydro schemes; industrial unrest; role as Construction Superintendent at the Clutha Valley Development, 1980-; explains dam construction; objections to scheme; displacement of orchards and houses; management style; worker redundancy; reflects on career in construction work. Accompanying material - Copy of 'Experience work history of C F Lennon'; Copy of 'People' page from Work News, Vol 19, No 1 - 43; Copy of 'Clutha Valley development' from Works News, Vol 17, No 6 - 11; Copy of handwritten notes relating to responsibilities - 2 pages; Copy of 'Top power man dies', Peter Dobson, from Otago Daily Times, 17 Feb 1989; Copy of 'Notes about Colin Lennon' produced by Clutha Valley Development project office. Venue - Cromwell Interviewer(s) - Manson, Hugo Venue - Mr Lennon's home at 69 Antimony Crescent, Cromwell Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001856 - OHC-001858 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 286 AY=AB AR=286. Search dates: 1931 - 1988

Date: 17 Feb 1987

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Bambery, Colin McIntosh, 1915-2008

Reference: OHInt-0003/02

Description: Describes family background, father's working life, and childhood memories. Discusses attitudes to music, reading, sport, religion and politics. Outlines secondary education at Palmerston North Technical College which he left in the Depression because he had to start work. Recalls details of job as apprentice electrical fitter at Mangahao Power Station for the Public Works Department of the Ministry of Works, including the standard of training, the living conditions at Mangaore, the characters among the staff, apprenticeship details, the noise in power stations and staff and pay cutbacks (Depression). Recalls taking City & Guilds of London exam and the important influence of I.R. (Robbie) Robinson (District Electrical Engineer) on career. Recalls Maraetai II, Marsden B power stations, the decision to build as coal/oil fired stations, load curve considerations when building power stations, and planning for power stations. Discusses geothermal power, and the Manapouri Power Station especially in relation to the controversy of raising the lake. Recalls some of the general managers of New Zealand Electricity Department and State Hydro Department, such as E.B. MacKensie, F.T.M. Kissell, A.E. Davenport, P.W. Blakeley, K.D. McCool (This material is restricted by interviewee). Outlines working for General Electric Co., U.S.A. in 1937 and work during World War II in Royal Navy and New Zealand Navy. Discusses subsequent career from engineer at Palmerston North and Mangakino to Head Office in various roles culminating in retiring as Assistant General Manager in 1978. Access Contact - See oral history librarian Venue - Wellington Interviewer(s) - Judith Fyfe Venue - Mr Bambery's home at 5 Kinapori Terrace, Newlands, Wellington Accompanying material - Copy of "Mr Bambery retires", from ED Newsletter, No. 48, Sept 1978; Handwritten notes by Colin Bambery referring to family, schooling, apprenticeship, war service, various highlights, post-war work, retirement activities, Bill Phillips, Manapouri Lake raising controversy. Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001426 - OHC-001428 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHA-0217. Black and white photographs:-. Colin Bambery, 1987. Colin Bambery at retirement function, 1978. Copy of black and white photograph:-. Colin Bambery, 1964 Search dates: 1915 - 1987

Date: 13 Feb 1987

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Robins, William Mercer, 1912-1991

Reference: OHInt-0003/08

Description: Describes family background; father's personality and work as shoe maker, carpenter and bridge inspector; childhood with mention of politics, discipline, books, religion, contact with Maori. Discusses the employment of Maori, problems as Maori moved from pas into towns (Matahina) in the 1960s, Maori women gambling. Recalls education in Auckland especially discipline and lack of sex education. Describes apprenticeship at Fletcher Construction in Auckland from 1927 and backgrounds the firm itself, discusses the Fletchers:- Bill Fletcher, James Fletcher l, (Sir) James Fletcher ll; their way of doing business; the cost of house building. Refers to construction of Civic Theatre, Auckland and Station Hotel, Auckland. Mentions heart attack in 1934. Recalls religion and social life in Napier in 1931 and the aftermath of the earthquake. Describes being manpowered into Public Works Department during World War ll after being turned down for the Air Force. Recalls camp life as carpenter on the construction of Karapiro Power Station in 1945, labour problems, accommodation, social life, cost of living. Describes life at Mangakino Power Station construction project (Foreman Carpenter, 1947-50) including the specially built town, the tunnellers, prostitution and gambling. Mentions Empire Games rowing on Karapiro in 1950, organisational details of responsiblities as Overseer, Ministry of Works at Mangakino, Maraeti, Whakamaru, Atiamuri in the 1950s. Recalls Ministry of Works personalities such as C.W.O. Turner, Engineer in Chief; E.R. McKillop, Commissioner of Works (1946-55); F.M.H. Hanson, Commissioner of Works (1955-61); J.T. Gilkison, Commissioner of Works (1961-1965); S.J. Chesterman, Project Engineer. Discusses jobs as Construction Superintendent, Ministry of Works, for various schemes:- Hydro Scheme at Matahina, Hydro Scheme at Turangi, Thermal Power Station, New Plymouth. Refers to trade unions during this period and the Communist Party. Describes responsibilities; exacavation and construction of Huntly Thermal Power Station, 1973-77. Recalls clashes with engineers. Access Contact - See oral history librarian Venue - Hamilton Interviewer(s) - Hugo Manson Venue - Mr Robins' home at 62 Campbell St, Hamilton Accompanying material - Copy of article entitled "Huntly Power Project" by T.R. Johnston, from unknown source - retirement notice Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 223. Black and white photograph:-. Bill Robins, 1932. Copies of black and white photographs:-. Frances and Bill Robins, c1975. House at Karapiro being transferred to Mangakino, 1940s Search dates: 1912 - 1987

Date: 18 Feb 1987

From: NZOHA Electricity Centenary Oral History Project Stages I, II and III

By: Natusch, Gilbert Gardner, 1917-2005

Reference: OHInt-0003/03

Description: Describes family background, early childhood in which he describes reading, music, sport and religion. Mentions being brought up to enter family firm as an engineer but did not. Mentions Depression. Recalls early education at Eastern Hutt Primary School, and Hutt Valley High School. Refers to employment at Wellington Structural and Reinforcing Co. Ltd (Fletchers Steel) in mid 1930s before studying engineering at Canterbury University College, Christchurch and contrasts his course with that of present day. Discusses employment during World War II, first with the Civic Construction Unit, Fiji, then, as Engineer Assistant with the New Zealand Air Force in Fiji then New Zealand. Finished service in India and briefly worked in the U.K. before returning to New Zealand. Describes work as Engineer for the Power Design Office, Public Works Department (Ministry of Works) and outlines background to separation of the State Hydro electric Department (SHED) from Public Works Department (PDO). Describes the personalities of C.W.O. Turner, A.E. Davenport and Frank Askin. Discusses power planning decisions at this time, the relationship between PDO and SHED, and recalls C.W.O. Turner, Engineer in chief, 1951-62. Outlines the background to the Manapouri Power Station, and his (Gil Natusch's) involvement, and the controversy about the lake level. Recalls the Cromwell / Clutha river project. Discusses his work as an Investigations engineer at PDO, his involvement with Local Authorities Loans Board and the Committee on Local Authority Hydroelectric Development. Gives background to the development of the Ruahihi Dam and mentions low morale of the Investigations Office. Discusses future sources of power and government monopoly on power generation. Access Contact - See oral history librarian Venue - Wellington Interviewer(s) - Judith Fyfe Venue - Mr Natusch's home at 46 Ohiro Bay Parade, Ohiro Bay, Wellington Accompanying material - Copy of article about retirement, source:- ? Works News, p 33; another article about retirement from NZ Concrete Construction, Nov 1982 Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-001429 - OHC-001431 Quantity: 3 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 3 Hours Duration. Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete OHA-0218. Search dates: 1917 - 1987