His mother wanted to send him to Elam School of Fine Arts, but that wasn't what men did in those days, he says.
So instead he pursued a career in sheep and cattle farming.
"When we were farming it was a one man band. There wasn't much time to paint."
When his farming days wound down he re-established his interest in watercolour painting.
He and Judy travelled to Europe for two years and explored famous galleries.
Mr Smith was inspired by the narrow streets, colourful awnings and crowds of people.
Since then he's travelled to Europe again where he generates more ideas for paintings.
He uses large brushes and simplifies a scene to create his paintings.
"The trick is knowing what to leave out," he says. The self-taught artist has always loved watercolour.
"I thought I'd try something different once I'd mastered watercolour. But I've learnt that you never really master it."
He has set up a small gallery in his home at Highfield Estate and hopes to start art classes in Te Awamutu if there is enough interest.
"Art is something people can take up later in life."
His exhibition will feature at Sarnia Park, 151 Maungatautari Road, Cambridge, on Saturday, May 20, and Sunday, May 21, from 10am to 4pm.
Devonshire teas will be available for purchase.