A twinkle in his eye

When Maurice Hale picks up his accordion, a twinkle appears in his eye and it becomes apparent that he is in his happy place, playing tunes both familiar and traditional.

Maurice was born in 1928 and grew up in Owaka, a beautiful spot in the Catlins. One of six children, (three brothers and two sisters), Maurice was expected to do his bit at home, be a good school student and listen to his teachers.

Once he left school, he worked in the outdoors in the bush, felling trees that would be taken by truck (with Maurice driving) to a local timber mill.

“I was happy working in the bush,” says Maurice. “Even when the weather wasn’t so nice, there was always the bush to protect you.”

Like many of his contemporaries, Maurice went to local dances, and it was there that he met his future wife, Shona.

The couple married in Dunedin at First Church of Otago, had five children – Margaret, Denise, Trevor, Bruce and Lindsay – and built a life for themselves in Owaka.

As our conversation continued, Maurice hinted at a lifelong interest - wood turning and boat building.

With a little more probing, Maurice talked about the three boats he built, one that would eventually take him and his family to Stewart Island!

“It was wooden with plenty of room, including two bunks, about 20 feet in length. It took about 12 months to build, and I launched it at Waihola.”

The incredible part of the story is that Maurice is self-taught. While his father was a carpenter, Maurice had to teach himself how to build the boat.

“I read books and knew that measurements had to be exact to make sure the boat was safe and seaworthy.”

There were also trips out to sea to catch Blue Cod (a favourite of his).

Maurice is now living at Holmdene in Balclutha and is safely ensconced in his room with special mementoes around him. Hobbies, special interests and activities are all encouraged at Holmdene.

“We’re well treated here and couldn’t ask for more. The staff look after us well.”

It is towards the end of the visit that Maurice proudly talks about buying his accordion when he was a young lad and, again, is self-taught. The beautiful instrument is about 90 years old and Maurice has deft hands, bringing it to life with some wonderful tunes, all with a twinkle in his eye.

Images: Holmdene resident Maurice Hale 

Download a PDF of our People Magazine - 8MB