In this interview, Peter English Ryan shares an account of his family’s journey from Ireland to Central Otago, beginning with tales of goldfields, farming, and the early days of Alexandra. Peter reflects on growing up in a large family in Dunedin during the Depression, his varied jobs after leaving school, from plasterer to freezing worker, and memorable years running the Becks Hotel with his wife Mavis and their young children.
Peter discusses his move into the local grocery trade, starting with a Four Square store on Centennial Avenue and growing into several family-run New World supermarkets. Throughout, he touches on the strong family ties that have been nurtured through regular gatherings and stories passed down, as well as his own retirement years spent enjoying bowls, gardening, and the company of friends and relatives.
Interviewer: Sue MacKenzie
Interview Dates: August 2023
Peter in front of Bendigo Hotel
Larry Ryan and family at Bendigo Hotel c.1890
Peter's 1921 Model A Ford, with Peter and Mavis far right, Queenstown 1953
Becks Hotel - as it was when Peter owned it
White Horse Hotel - the original Becks Hotel
Bendigo Hotel Alexandra - painting by Doug Ayson
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