Interview with John Buller

Born in England and in 1920 came with parents and three of his sisters to New Zealand on the Pakeha. John describes his father's mechanical models and caves for the DIC (Wanganui). Recalls his school days and mentions: Mrs Simpson (Headmistress); Mrs Cavill (Primer 1 teacher) and Mrs Stewart (Primer 3 teacher). John was apprenticed to the Engineering Works and worked there for 32 years, becoming foreman. Describes the part played when the Port Bowan ran aground and many of the other projects undertaken by the engineering works including the Cobham Bridge. Also describes his river-boat work, including his work on the 'Pat Byron' during its calamity for the Engineering works. Became engineer/technician for the Wanganui Chronicle, seeing them through the change from lead print to computerisation. He was a top rower, being involved in the building of an ergometer (a straight out rowing machine which picked out potential good rowers). He was also a pig-hunter and a dedicated fisherman.

Old vehicles he restored included; an old fire-engine - 1917 Tilly Stevens (belonged to Rod Sinclair who sold it to Southwood Museum) and a Puffing Billy (steam train), which was the first steam tram in Wanganui but had not been used for 30 years.

Abstracted by - Susan Hawes

Interviewer(s) - Susan Hawes

Recorded by - Susan Hawes

Venue - 8 Rimu Street, Wanganui

Accompanying material - Wanganui Chronicle article (30-11-1989) and photograph for John Buller's retirement from Wanganui Newspapers.

Arrangement: Tape numbers - OHC-006745

Tape numbers - OHC-006746

Quantity: 2 C60 cassette(s). 1 printed abstract(s). 1 interview(s). 2 Hours Duration.

Finding Aids: Abstract Available - abstracting complete AB 1528.

4 photographs - (1) Cover portrait of John Buller (2) Wanganui Rowing Club Lightweight Maiden Fours (1939-1940), (3) John Buller at Engineering Works, Wanganui, (1950), (4) Last vehicle to cross the town bridge, Wanganui prior to its demolition. John Buller driving a restored fire engine 1917 Tilly Stevens and (5) Day following John Buller's retirement after almost 18 years service at Wanganui Newspapers (30-11-1989). John Buller right, Phillip Meade, his successor, left.

Original recordings not available for playback. Surrogate copies will be provided.

Alternative form available:

Copies held at Whanganui Regional Museum