Gordon Paterson's return to Hawke's Bay this week helped him complete one of life's circles.
Forty-five years after being hosted as an exchange student the South African-born man returned to the school corridors that brought back many happy memories. He was hosted by Havelock North Rotary Club in 1970 as an exchange scholar and spent the year in 7th form (Year 13) at Hastings Boys' High School.
He used his time to immerse himself in the "New Zealand way" of life and made lasting friendships in the classroom and on the sportsfield.
"It was a defining year in my life."
It was his experience as a 17-year-old that influenced his decision to move his wife and family to the country many years later. He returned this week to gift copies of his new book to the school library.