When a young blacksmith and his friends spotted a pretty nurse at a dance, they dared each other to ask her out.
This week, the blacksmith and the nurse - now both 86 years old - are celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary with a series of family get-togethers.
Colin Hackett was at a dance with some friends when he met Doreen Wallace.
"She was very pretty and we all dared each other to ask her for a dance.
"She wouldn't dance with us, but I saw her there the next week and asked her to dance. And, as they say, the rest is history," Mr Hackett said.
The couple has eight children - five sons and three daughters - and numerous grandchildren.
Four children came to the party yesterday at Jane Winstone Retirement Village, where the couple lives, and another family gathering will happen next week when the rest of the family can make it home.
The date of their 65th anniversary was September 2, but the celebrations were delayed because Mr Hackett was ill.
Both Mr and Mrs Hackett have strong family ties to Wanganui. Hackett St in Wanganui East was named after Mr Hackett's family farm.
So what's the secret to 65 years of marriage?
"Marry young - and let all your arguments go," Mr Hackett said.