After 34 years of calling Helensville home, Grev and Maureen Walker have decided to move on, leaving behind a legacy that will forever be cherished by the community. Although they’ve relocated, the memories and impact of Helensville, Kaukapakapa, and the Kaipara River Valley will always hold a special place in their hearts.
A Lifetime of Commitment and Community
Grev and Maureen Walker’s journey in Helensville began in 1987 after spending a significant portion of their lives in the communities of Dairy Flat and Waimauku. The couple, along with their daughters Rachael and Natalie, found a sense of belonging and purpose in this vibrant South Kaipara region.
Grev reflects on the reasons behind their move to Helensville:
- Returning Home: For Maureen, moving to Helensville was a return to her roots. The couple cherished her Jones/Hooper family history in Kaukapakapa and Makarau.
- Education: Their daughters attended Kaipara College, benefiting from the school’s intimate setting and myriad of opportunities.
- Lifestyle: Grev and Maureen were drawn to the slower pace and outdoor activities, including golf, fishing, and exploring the Kaipara Harbour.
- Investment: They saw long-term investment potential in Helensville, leading them to purchase Progressive Buildings and start anew with the Southernwood family.
Building a Commercial Future
Upon settling in Helensville, Grev and Maureen quickly realised that the town’s commercial future hinged on two key objectives: establishing a sizeable supermarket and promoting Helensville and Parakai as tourism destinations.
Grev’s dedication to these goals saw them both take on various roles within the Business Association, including Chairman, Secretary, and Treasurer over 15 years. Despite numerous setbacks and challenges, their perseverance paid off with notable achievements:
1988 The Kaipara Dairy Co. closed with major loss of jobs
1989 Helensville Borough Council was replaced by Rodney District Council
1990 Walkers opened Screatons Family Outfitters and Helensville Information Centre
1992 Grev initiated meetings with major Supermarket chains incl. Woolworths
1996 The launch of many Tourist publications: Flyers, brochures, NZ Herald features per Grev’s Advertising Agency.
1998 The loss of the ANZ and BNZ threatened the prospects of a new Supermarket until ASB arrived with a mobile facility
2000 First stage of the Riverbank Walkway began. Completed in 2004.
Business Directories were produced annually and continued for the next 20 years.
WOOLWORTHS Supermarket Opened December 2000, later renamed Countdown.
Embracing a New Chapter
With the establishment of the Supermarket and the Riverbank Walkway, life in Helensville transformed. The Walkers enjoyed a balanced work-life routine, often retreating to their Kiwi bach at Birds Beach. Their leisure time was filled with excursions across New Zealand, dance band music, fellowship at the Masonic Lodge and All Saints Church in Kaukapakapa.
Grev’s contributions to the community extended to serving on the Rodney District Council for six years and becoming a Justice of the Peace in 2005. Both Grev and Maureen dedicated their time to the care and restoration of All Saints Kaukapakapa Cemetery, a role that they hope will be continued by new volunteers as Maureen approaches 77 and Grev 80.
A Fond Farewell
Now, the Walkers have moved from the Country back to the City (settling into a Retirement Village in Hobsonville), they reflect on their 53 years of marriage with the prime time being 34 years in Helensville.
Their departure marks the end of an era for Helensville, but their legacy of Community spirit and development will hopefully inspire future generations.
Progressive Buildings, Cnr. Rata Street
Woolworths December 2000
