Five-decade service above self

Allan Hunter has been a testament to the Rotary motto ‘service above self’ for half a century.

Since 1974, he has volunteered with the Richmond branch of the international organisation, supporting a plethora of local events and organisations and contributing to projects in Rarotonga, Cambodia, and Afghanistan.

The 77-year-old says the fellowship and reputation that Rotary commands had kept his Rotary wheel turning.

“It was quite a desirable club to be part of, and it was looked up to a lot, and it still is,” he says.

“My father Max was an original member in 1956, and my uncle Ray was also in the Richmond Rotary Club, so it’s quite a family affair.”

Allan has presided on every Rotary Club of Richmond committee and has held its presidency twice.

His indelible memories include assisting in the renovation of the Rotoiti Lodge and the Aitutaki Hospital in Rarotonga, developing the Riding for the Disabled group, and the club’s charity golf tournaments and the now defunct Nelson Wine and Food Festival.

Allan has also helped fundraise for Rotary’s PolioPlus Programme which endeavours to decimate polio in affected countries like Afghanistan, this included a fundraising dinner in 1988 with America’s Cup icon Sir Michael Fay as the guest speaker.

He has also helped fundraise for wells in Cambodia to provide locals with fresh water, and presently edits a weekly Richmond Rotary bulletin, and directs traffic and takes photos at the annual Nelson Motorhome Caravan and Outdoor Show and the Top of the South Car Show.

Allan will continue his Rotary service in the years to come.

“I’ll look for the next milestone now,” he says.