Peter Wood was born on the 1st of July, 1942, in Greymouth, Though his roots began in Greymouth, Peter's story is largely shaped by his family’s move to Reefton when he was just five years old. This move marked the start of a rich and fulfilling life in a close-knit community where he would spend most of his formative years.

Peter’s father, Henry Wood, was a man well-known in the town of Reefton. Born in Reefton himself, Henry was a businessman who made his living working as a salesman for Rawleigh's products, a company that provided household remedies and healthcare goods, Henry also sold suits, likely visiting homes and local shops, making him a familiar face in the community. , a job that allowed him to connect with the community on a personal level. His role in the town’s commerce was pivotal in supporting the family. Peter’s mother, Margaret Pollock, hailed from North Canterbury and was a strong influence in the family, providing stability and care as Peter and his siblings grew up.

Peter had three siblings: his older brother Jim, born in 1940, and two sisters, Margaret and Shirley. The Wood family lived together at 1 Soldiers Road in Reefton, a home that became the backdrop of Peter’s childhood memories. Growing up in a house filled with siblings, there was no shortage of activity or companionship. The closeness of the family would later reflect in Peter’s strong sense of loyalty and community spirit.

Peter’s education began at Reefton District School, where he spent his early school days learning alongside children from the local area. Following that, he attended Reefton District High School, a period during which he developed lifelong friendships. His best friends at school were John Mulligan and Mike Andrews, and the trio was inseparable, sharing countless adventures in the small town. These friendships not only made Peter’s school years enjoyable but also solidified the importance of friendship and community in his life.

At a young age, Peter learned the value of hard work. Possum hunting, raising and selling fowl, selling them to a local, Bill Hunt, in exchange for food to feed his fowls, which became another way he supported himself and contributed to the community.After school, he took up a job at the Onlee Fruit Shop in Reefton, where he started out working part-time after school The fruit shop was a local staple, and Peter quickly proved himself reliable and responsible. He eventually took over the shop’s operations when the owner, Jimmy, went away,

Jimmy was so grateful for Peter's help and friendship that he later named his first born son after him.

His career later took him to the Reefton Post Office on Bridge Street, where he worked for a time before joining the New Zealand Forest Service.

While working for the Forest Service, Peter worked under two bosses, Ensor and later Harrison. This job offered him the chance to work in the great outdoors, something that aligned with his passion for adventure and nature.

Peter’s life took a pivotal turn when he met Elizabeth Butcher, a woman from Blacks Point, at a Workingmen’s Club dance in Reefton. Their connection quickly blossomed, and the couple married at Saint Stephens Church in Reefton. Together, they raised two children, Quintin and Karen.

Peter was an active member of the Reefton community. As a young man, he played a lot of rugby, a sport that fostered camaraderie and physical fitness. He was also involved in the local Search and Rescue team, where he demonstrated his bravery and commitment to helping others in need. One of the most significant events in Peter’s life was his involvement in the Lake Daniell rescue mission in April 1974, where three people tragically lost their lives. Peter played a key role in  bringing back the bodies to Reefton via helicopter. This event left a lasting impact on him, showing his dedication to both adventure and the well-being of others.

Now settled in Christchurch, Peter continues to embody the qualities that defined his earlier years. His life, shaped by the small town of Reefton.

Enter Text

   Scrapbook