As a Child in the 1960s, My Home Was in Rotorua, New Zealand

 My Thoughts

!960's Rotorua

My earliest memories are hazy snapshots – the smell of freshly cut grass in Ohau, on my grandparents dairy farm, where I lived with my Mum and Dad. But by the age of four, my world shifted dramatically. My parents, Mum and Dad, packed up our lives – me, my two brothers, and all our belongings – and we moved

to Rotorua, New Zealand. Levin (near Ohau) in New Zealand, where I was born, a small rural town in the Horowhenua, faded into the background, replaced by the geothermal wonderland that would become my childhood home. My Dad, a skilled automotive mechanic, found work there, and my Mum, the heart of our family, became a full-time, stay-at-home Mum, her days filled with the comforting rhythm of homemaking.

An aerial view of Rotorua as it was then

School

Starting school in Rotorua was a significant milestone. I remember the first day like it was yesterday, the nervous excitement of meeting new classmates, and the slightly daunting size of the school building. It wasn't just the physical environment that was new; it was also the culture. Rotorua, even back then, had a unique atmosphere, a blend of Māori heritage and a vibrant, growing community. My school days were filled with the usual mix of playground scrapes, classroom learning, and the thrill of school trips. The natural beauty surrounding us was an integral part of our learning experiences, with frequent excursions to nearby forests and lakes. The teachers, many of whom were local, nurtured a sense of belonging and pride in our community.

Childhood

Life in Rotorua in the 1960s was idyllic. Our days were filled with the simple joys of childhood. Summer holidays were spent swimming in the cool waters of one of Rotorua’s local lakes, the steam rising from the geothermal vents adding a touch of magic to the landscape. We'd explore the local area, build makeshift dens in the backyard and imagine ourselves as intrepid explorers. Winter evenings were cozy, filled with the warmth of the fireplace and the comforting smells of Mum's cooking. The aroma of roasting meat and freshly baked bread lingers in my memory to this day.

The Old Bath House - Tudor Towers

We weren't wealthy, but we had everything we needed. We were a close-knit family, and our home, although modest, was filled with love and laughter. My brothers and I were incredibly close, often getting into mischief together and sharing in countless adventures. Our parents instilled in us strong values: the importance of family, hard work, and respect for others. It was a grounding experience, shaping the person I am today.

We were lucky enough to live within easy reach of the city center but also had the benefit of the quieter residential areas that bordered the outskirts of town. The sounds of nature were never far away – the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and even the high tree covered peak of Mount Ngongataha had animals creeping through the undergrowth. These sounds, combined with the friendly faces of our neighbors, created a sense of security and community that I rarely encountered elsewhere.

The Maori people of the area

My Mum and Dad were both incredibly patient and supportive. My Dad's mechanical skills extended beyond the garage, seamlessly fixing anything from our broken toys to leaky taps. His hands, calloused from years of working with engines, were always ready to offer a comforting touch and a helping hand. Mum, ever the homemaker, created a haven for us. Her love manifested itself in countless ways – from the delicious meals she prepared to the countless hours she spent mending our clothes and patching up our scrapes.

“The best things in life are not things.” This simple yet profound statement perfectly captures the essence of my childhood. While material possessions were scarce, our lives were rich in love, laughter, and unforgettable experiences.

Looking back, I realize how fortunate I was to grow up in Rotorua during that time. It was a period of simple pleasures, strong family bonds, and a deep connection to the natural world. The memories I carry are not just nostalgic, they are the foundation upon which my life has been built. More than just a place, Rotorua is a part of me, woven into the very fabric of who I am. The vibrant geothermal landscape, the comforting presence of my family, and the simple joys of childhood all converged to create a childhood that I will forever cherish.