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This entrepreneur extraordinary started from a base at Mt Albert Grammar School and a degree in Forestry at Canterbury. Finding no work in forestry thanks to Roger Douglas's reorganisation of the economy but energised by reading, "The Magic of Thinking Big", he bought a million dollar farm with an outlay of $10,000. By subdividing and selling parts before mortgage payments fell due he was able to end up with a 350-acre farm and some capital. He subsequently bought a village and Tawa Shopping Mall.
After a visit to Ohura he saw the possibilities of an abandoned railway line, loss maker for NZR. He took out a 30-year lease, acquired some second hand golf carts and adapted them to run on railway lines. The Forgotten World Railway from Whangamonama to Taumaranui was born. From 2500 passengers in its first year it has grown to 9800 passengers in 2019. The railway has had a major impact on the area: the famed hotel has increased its staff from 3 to 18 and his Adventure Company employs 35 people on the Railway. Scholarships for local children and donations to local charities have helped the area revive, leading to a relative boom in the real estate.
Ian stressed that "Tourism is about story telling" and he entertained us with anecdotes about the Railway and his career. Far from satisfied with that success he now has a helicopter company and a jet boat company as well. Just back from a trip to Mongolia (advice - do not drink fermented mares 'milk) he has retaken management of the Adventure Company and sees enormous possibilities as a route for cycle touring.
Parting Thought:
"That awkward moment when someone yells at you for clicking your pen; but you have to click it one more time to use it!"
What do you call a Mexican whose car has been stolen? Carlos
Please study and plan ahead, especially if you are on duty to write a Bulletin Contribution. A reminder that it's also your responsibility to find a replacement if you are unable to fulfill your duty.
Steady Wins the Race: Pursuing some long-term foreign policy goals in France
James Kember is a retired NZ Foreign Affairs Ambassador. Dr Kember's most recent posting was in Paris. He is currently Chair of the NZIIA Research and Publications Committee.
* Upcoming Calendar: Take a look at what's coming up in the next few months. This website calendar is updated regularly, so it will help you be ahead, and keep track of our dates and events. It's easy so here's how....
Go to our Website first, then look at Calendar, you will see 3 options, "Speakers", "Events Calendar" and "Rotary Calendar". The latter is what's happening in the District, if you want to see this. However, go back to Events Calendar to see what's happening with us and you will see 3 options. These are: Calendar, Grid and List. Have a look at all three and pick the one that suits you best. I like List or Grid and you can print out the one that you like best.
If you still have a problem, please contact Brian or Des.
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