Historian Ron is leaving museum after 41 years

One of Taranaki’s top history buffs is now looking to the future as he finishes a career of recording Taranaki’s past.

Puke Ariki’s senior researcher Ron Lambert finishes up at the museum today after 41 years. The ongoing restructure within the New Plymouth District Council has resulted in the disestablishment of Lambert’s position, and he chose redundancy over reemployment.

Lambert, who insists he’s more of a zoologist than a history buff, says among his most memorable contributions are returning the five Motunui pataka panels to the museum and helping get the recognition of the maui’s dolphin as a subspecies. He grew up on an Inglewood dairy farm, obtained a natural science degree from Victoria University and after a few years away, returned to the North Island in 1972 - marking the start of his fascination with Taranaki history.

‘‘In 1975, I got directorship at the museum. When I first started, there were three staff members,’’ Lambert said.

In 1999, he became the collections manager before a swift transition to senior researcher in 2001. ‘‘They wanted me in that role because of my local knowledge,’’ he said.

Although he played an enormous role in piecing together the region’s history, he had a list of names he wanted to thank.

‘‘Audrey Gale, Harry Chapman, Marj Rau-Kupa, Te Ru Wharehoka, Murray Moorhead and Brian Scanlan all had a large contribution to this museum, which has grown into the library,’’ Lambert said. ‘‘People tend to forget those in the past who have helped shape today.’’

As for becoming forgotten himself, it seems staff won’t be getting rid of him any time soon.

‘‘Oh, I’m certainly going to keep coming back in here and asking those embarrassing questions.’’