THE?PASSION a Royal Navy veteran from Petersfield holds for New Zealand has inspired him to write a wide ranging book about the country.
Dick Parsons, of Grenehurst Way, has made two trips to the land of the long white cloud, visiting both north and south islands.
He was so overwhelmed by the beauty and splendour he was inspired to write about it.
Called New Zealand: A Personal Discovery, it takes readers on a cultural and historical tour of New Zealand more than two centuries after British Captain James Cook first crossed paths with the country’s diverse people and captivating landscapes.
He looks at the archival significance, societal development and geographic formation of the country.
Dick (88) said: “After just two visits to New Zealand, I was fascinated by the country’s incredible volcanoes, mountains, glaciers, geysers, forests, lakes and unique flora and fauna.
“The mysterious coming and settlement of the Polynesians and later the Maoris in the ‘Land of the Long White Cloud’ fired my imagination and wonder.
“The warmth of New Zealand’s people only enhanced my zeal for the country – I really had no choice but to put pen to paper.
“I was full of admiration for the enterprising support.
“The people are very cheerful, and don’t have a chip on their shoulder.
“They are so friendly. We stayed at various sheep stations – we never stayed in a hotel, so we got to know them and they are lovely people.
“I have very happy memories of New Zealand.”
Dick spent 32 years in the Royal Navy before becoming an accountant.
But it is writing that has captured his imagination since retirement.
He added: “I had always wanted to write and I have now written four books. It’s in my blood.
“It’s wonderful.”