Overview This interview covers Olive’s early life in Northern Southland, her attendances at Lumsden School and subsequent School Jubilees. She gives a description of rabbiting and talks of her work history, marriage, children and shop ownership with husband Jim. Has an explanation of RSA WELFARE in relation to life after husband’s death. Talks about life in small communities.

Overview Born 1945, Hugh Wilson's interview contains some family background, how Hugh came to write Field Guides and his fascination with nature from young age. He describes trips to Stewart Island, University experiences, study on Stewart Island, study on Mount Cook, and putting together his books.

Overview This interview covers Bob’s working life at the Flax Mill where he grew up in Redan, Eastern Southland. Detailed accounts of the working of the mill including a description of the dam and water race – turbines. Also some discussion of farming and contracting.

Overview In this interview Betty talks of her early life and education at Glenham and Wyndham, of learning to play the piano and later becoming a piano teacher in the district. In 1950 Betty joined a women’s choir and she talks of her involvement with this group and their achievements for 25 years.

Overview This interview covers Joyce’s early life and family history farming at Dipton, her education and employment history. Gives an overview of the war years after which she married and shifted to Gummies Bush. She talks of this time, her husband, children and extended family. Joyce was very involved in the community e.g. Plunket, Anglican Church Thornbury, Southland Regional Council, Rural Women NZ (WDFF) etc. In 1993 she was awarded the National Bank Women’s Suffrage Award.

Overview In this interview Claire discusses her families association with Stewart Island, their careers and interests. She includes a description of traveling from Wellington to Stewart via ferry and train. She also covers her career choices training first as a nurse then as a kindergarten teacher, her marriage and children and her husband’s career in medicine, his life works and death.