Village News
Wine, knotted rugs and the best advice you’ll ever get!
13 August 2024
A resident biography series – Paul Eden, Springlands Lifestyle Village.
What was interesting about growing up?
I I was born in South London in 1939, just before the beginning of World War II. During the Blitz, my mother, brother, and I were evacuated to a small village called Saint Breward in Cornwall to seek refuge for the duration of the war. Living through the war years with Cornish families exerted a major influence on my view of life and the things I value. The freedom we had as children, the space around Bodmin Moor and St. Breward developed my love of independence, adventure, and open spaces.
How did you spend your life prior to retirement?
When I arrived in Wellington from England in 1962, I had one work contact through my father in the flooring business, so I spent most of my career in this industry. It required an enormous amount of travelling. I told myself when I turned 55, I would do something different. So, in 1996 my wife and I sold the business and started contract grape growing for wineries – predominantly Sauvignon Blanc. I still own Koronui Vineyard which is only a f ive-minute drive from Springlands. While I have leased out the grapevine side of the business, I still actively harvest 24 olive trees on the property and make my own olive oil. I enjoy getting up there to potter about in my shed and on the tractor. Favourite wine? Saint Clair Chardonnay.
What has been your favourite holiday place, and why?
Nepal. I have visited more than 15 times. I was there last year tramping with my daughter for two weeks. My wife and I spent a great deal of time in India and Nepal for work, as for 20 years we 26 imported hand-knotted floor rugs into New Zealand. We did lots of tramping in Nepal and were involved with village projects like putting in water schemes for schools. You can do an awful lot with very little money in this country. I think there’s similarities between Nepal and New Zealand in terms of outdoor exploration. It’s not dissimilar to the Southern Alps – just significantly bigger, with a different culture.
What book would you recommend to other residents?
Into Thin Air, by Jon Krakauer. He was part of a Mount Everest expedition whereby a number of people, many of them Kiwis, died. It’s a great read and all about decision making. We all make decisions in life – good and bad. It’s one of life’s biggest lessons.
What’s your favourite album or song? And why?
The Gadfly, by Russian Composer and Pianist, Dmitri Shostakovich. It’s the most romantic piece of music you’ll ever hear.
What advice would you give to your 20-year-old self?
Many opportunities will be offered to you throughout life. Always think of the reasons why you should, not the reasons you should not!