History in auction of H&J store chattels
AN array of former Dunedin department store mannequins is sparking interest and stirring memories before a big auction of store chattels.
H&J Smith, which closed its store in the Meridian Mall last month, is holding an auction on Saturday.
Proctor Auctions manager Ronnie Proctor had ‘‘mixed feelings’’ about the biggest department store chattels and fittings auction the family firm had handled in 40plus years.
‘‘There’s a little bit of history involved here. You think, how many people have walked through this area?’’ he said, reflecting on the former H&J Smith cafe.
Before H&J bought the store in 2015, Arthur Barnett had operated for 112 years.
‘‘It’s a bit of an end of an era,’’ Mr Proctor said.
There was some sadness about that, but he was excited to run the auction, and buyers could snap up some good bargains among the 553 lots and more than 5000 items on sale.
H&J Smith chief executive John Green said the auction was ‘‘a wonderful opportunity for local business and people who are looking for something for the home’’.
Mr Proctor said the items were good quality, and the most striking single feature was the collection of about 100 male and female mannequins, the largest he had dealt with.