Audrey Cowie shares memories of life in Central Otago, offering a glimpse into the region’s farming, family, and community through much of the twentieth century.
Audrey begins by describing her childhood growing up on a small family farm in the 1930’s and attending school in Cromwell. She recalls her early responsibilities on the family farm, particularly after she left school at 14 to help her father with haymaking and their small herd of dairy cows. Audrey discusses the impact of the Depression and wartime rationing, when her family lived largely off the land, highlighting the resourcefulness that defined rural life. Social and community life features throughout the interview, with stories of dances at Lowburn Hall, crossing the river by punt, and the excitement of new bridges and local events.
Moving into adulthood, Audrey recounts marrying her husband, Matt, after he returned from the war, and life together on their mixed-crop and sheep farm at Tarras. She talks about her children, catering for farm workers, and adapting to changes such as irrigation and new technologies.
Audrey’s recollections are an authentic record of mid-20th century life in rural Central Otago, a time shaped by hard work, self-reliance and community spirit.
Interviewer: Jo Wilson
Interview Dates: August 2022
The abstract will help you identify what is being said during the interview.
Lowburn School. Audrey is at top right, 1936
Lowburn Ferry (with Peter Gray in charge), 1933
Wilson family haymaking, 1940's
Audrey Wilson aged 16
Wilson Family, undated
Audrey and Matt Cowie's wedding, 1950
Audrey and Matt Cowie with their children, undated
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