Episode 5: John Riddell

Secretary of the Massey Birdwood Settlers Association and stalwart of the Massey community, John has been incredibly active on the local scene.

John first moved to West Auckland decades ago and sought to become as involved in the community as possible. He has also amassed an impressive volume of knowledge about the history of Massey and the surrounding suburbs. He credits the local people and impressive views with keeping him here.

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

My name is John Riddell. I've lived in Massey for a number of years now.

I'm the Secretary of the Massey Birdwood Settlers Association, and my actual job though is a Health and Safety Consultant.

So in 1987, I moved to Massey, and I suppose if we go back even further I moved out west in 1963 with my family.

So, I've had a long association - done a lot of things within Massey.

I just like the people, I suppose. Wherever I've lived I've wanted to become involved in the community.

I also like the area, I was going to say it's hilly, but it's got some fantastic views - of not only the Waitakere Ranges, but the Harbour as well.

In parts of Massey, you get brilliant views of the Harbour Bridge and Sky Tower, and some people can get panoramic views of the whole area.

We've got some fantastic organisations already established in Massey.

Few people realise we've got an Archery Club just up the road here in Red Hills Road, that have produced world champions, and New Zealand Champions.

We've got a Badminton Club and people from here have won medals at Commonwealth Games.

We've got a Rugby Club that has produced All Blacks.

Massey is a fantastic place and has produced some wonderful people that we can be proud of.