How Well Do We Know People in Our Community?

Derek Stephens         RD 2 The White Rock Run

From one hemisphere to another, Derek Stephens, moved from Scotland, to England, then to Australia with his wife Karen, and finally to Martinborough.

On arrival and looking for a job he worked in the newly opened Mitre 10. Assembling BBQs was one of his first responsibilities. The day came when Mike Cutfield, the Manager, apprehended David Kershaw to ask when the new driver for timber deliveries, was to be appointed. David pointed to Derek and said he was already on board. “Oh,” replied Mike Cutfield “I thought he was the BBQ rep.” 

Derek worked for 7 years with Mitre 10. This was a time before Google, with limited maps and obscure local directions. Trying to find some of the addresses was problematic but it was a wonderful way of getting to know the district well.

When the downturn in the building industry impacted on deliveries, a lucky friendship with a golfing friend opened up another opportunity, the franchise for the Rural Mail Delivery out to White Rock. 

“I just love it,” says Derek. “It is a loop run of 200kms and every day is different. The weather changes can be dramatic, and the landscape is stunning. You never know what wildlife you are going to see. I remember once seeing a magnificent 20-point stag on the road during the roaring season. And then in heavy rain and high winds the road becomes a different challenge.

The morning begins with sorting the newspapers, fliers, and mail. Delivery orders are picked up from Pain and Kershaws, Wrightson’s and other providers. As the volume of mail has decreased, courier deliveries have grown. The Tora Walk has had a big influence in the area. I drop off the luggage for the walkers at each accommodation point and collect it again for the next venue.

There was one time when a group of naturists were walking the track. They were advised that they could be quite free, until they reached more populated areas. Then they had to be clothed. However, they arrived at the cottages au naturel. “I just didn’t know where to look,” said Derek. “I dropped off the luggage very quickly.” 

With so many kilometres to drive there is always the possibility of a mechanical mishap. I was coming back home when I heard a clunk on the right-hand side of my vehicle. As I pulled to the left, to my amazement I saw the tyre passing me and disappearing down the bank. I remember thinking that the tyre didn’t look flat. But it was worse than that. When I got out to look there was no hub. All the studs holding the wheel had snapped. It was pouring with rain and the long walk back to Riversdale Station was the only option. I managed to call Tom Wilson and arranged for the truck to be picked up. It was a long day. But all in a day’s work.

Three other RD contractors Alan Hore, Greg Woodhams and Brian Sugrue also distribute from Martinborough,  As well as these Ponatahi is covered from Carterton and Kahutara to the coast from Featherston. 

Lyle Griffiths