Boxes to Books

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 42, 7 April 1987, Page 2

Boxes to Books

Boyd's Bookshop in Seddon Street, Raetihi has recently changed hands after being managed for the last 16 years by Raetihi's Mayor, Garrick Workman. Neil and Margaret McLean officially took over the business on 1 April although Neil sold his carrying business at the end of February. Neil became familiar to many Waimarino residents through his parcel and goods carrying business which he operated successfully for 10 years. Margaret McLean will still be working as lawyers clerk for Godfrey Harvey and says she has no intention of leaving at the present time. Neil is a 'local', born and bred in Raetihi. Before his truck business he managed a farm for 13 years.

His latest venture will be something of a rest for him after nearly a lifetime of physically demanding work. Neil once estimated that he picked up and put down 15,000 tons of goods in a year of carrying. Neil said he is grateful for the good will he received from locals over the years and maintains he will endeavour to "make a go" of his new business. The bookshop will continue to trade under the name of Boyd's until a new name is decided upon — if and when that happens. Neil is enthusiastic about the business because it will enable him to spend more time with his family, including his two sons Glenn 12, and Shaun 9. H is other j ob as volunteer fireman will also get more attention now he is more central to town.