Preserving the history of New Zealand one rose at a time is Murray Radka’s passion—a dedication that has earned him international recognition.

A former Dunstan High School history and English teacher, as well as a guidance counsellor, Murray has established a rose museum on the outskirts of Clyde, where he collects and cultivates roses brought by early settlers.

Many of those who sailed to New Zealand from England knew they would likely never return. To keep a connection to home, they brought cuttings of cherished plants. Rose cuttings, often preserved by embedding them in potatoes for the long voyage, were planted upon arrival. At the time, a rose could cost the equivalent of a working man’s weekly wage.

Historic roses can still be found growing in former gold mining areas and around the ruins of old houses. Their presence reflects both the settlers’ emotional connection to them and the remarkable resilience of roses, which have survived in Central Otago’s harsh climate without irrigation or spraying.

Date: 6:30pm Wednesday 4th June
Venue: Clyde Museum
Guest Speaker : Murray Radka

Entry by koha-donation with proceeds going to Clyde Museum. BOOKING is essential