In this interview, Neville first describes his family’s involvement with the development of rowing on the Clutha River and later on Lake Dunstan, and then talks about the very early days of the Alexandra Blossom Festival and the amazing parade floats. He goes on to describe his experiences in rugby and harriers, his family life, and many different jobs and business ventures, including working as a driller on the Clyde Dam, and as a bailiff. Later, Neville talks about his bike and kayak shop and how this tied in with the beginning of Multisport events such as the Coast-to-Coast race. This led to him initiating and promoting the Goldrush multisport event. The opening of the Central Otago Rail Trail took Neville in yet another direction with Trail Journeys. This business was the first to provide rail trail cyclists with a complete package of bike hire, transport and accommodation. Years on and the popularity and accessibility of the rail trail goes from strength to strength, supported by pioneers like Neville and his partners.

Interviewer: Jo Wilson
Interview Dates:
March 2024

The abstract will help you identify what is being said during the interview.

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