Henry helps out

Henry Nissen, 77, semi retired builder living in Opua. Member of the Paihia Volunteer Fire Brigade for the last 45 years.

What do you like about the Far North?

The people, the scenery the climate - pretty much everything.

How long have you lived here and where are you originally from?

I was born in the North of Germany and came to New Zealand in 1962. I came to The Bay Of Islands in 1963, when the then Waitangi Hotel was being built and I have lived here ever since.

What do you like least and how can we fix it?

Our road sides. Our beautiful environment is slowly getting overgrown with noxious weeds. Our council should make a concerted effort to keep these weeds under control.

What’s your favourite eatery?

The Legends Restaurant at the Paihia Ex Sevicemen’s Club.

Your highlight of the week?

Go down to The Paihia Volunteer Fire Brigade on training night to mix with the boys and give a hand with what I can.

Who is the Kiwi you most admire?

Anyone who will help his or her fellow man in times of trouble.

The spot in Northland I’d recommend is… Opua is the spot I would recommend people to come and enjoy.

If I were the Far North mayor I’d...

I would introduce robust long term by-laws that would protect our coastline for generations to come.

When I’ve got a few free hours I like to...

I enjoy sitting on our deck taking in the view

‘‘Our beautiful environment is slowly but surely getting overgrown with noxious weeds...our council should make a concerted effort to keep these weeds under control.’’

Henry Nissen

with my partner and friends enjoying a cold beer and a good yarn.