David Reid

1954 to 1958

David has had a very interesting work life.  From his days at Matamata College where he gained School Certificate, played hockey in the 1st 11 and was a Sargent in the Military Training Corp, he went on to become a registered electrician.  Over the years he has had numerous interesting occupations.   David started as an electrical contractor.  Then he was employed by Air New Zealand as an electrical aircraft engineer.  He has done a stint as a manager of an aluminium joinery factory.  When the Kaimai tunnel was being built David worked as an electrician on that project.  At one stage he was the co-owner of the Opal Hot Springs.

David has been in the forefront of research and development into chemical free weed control.  He has designed and developed machines to accomplish this venture.  It has taken him to many countries (England, Holland, Denmark, Germany, USA and Canada) to successfully market his product.

Over the years he has also been involved with boat building with his father, he has built three houses and restored many cars and caravans.  (Never an idle moment).

Now retired and living in Whangamata (the home of the beach hop) David still pursues his hobby of building cars/hot rods, campervans and caravans.

His three children are all very successful in their careers.  His eldest son owns and operates a gym in Warkworth, middle daughter owns an accounting business in Auckland and the youngest is a partner in an electrical company Wellington.