One thing George Nicolson was unlikely to pursue today was "a fuss".
Mr Nicolson turned 100 today, and when asked the question posed of all centenarians - what's the secret? - he simply said "simple living, keeping fit, working hard and avoiding a fuss."
He will be the centre of attention at
Gladys Mary Retirement Home in Napier today where staff planned a special afternoon tea which would include the reading of a congratulatory happy birthday message from the Queen.
His family, including nine great grandchildren, gathered over the weekend to mark the event, as did his parish family when his age milestone was acknowledged at Sunday Mass at St Patrick's Church.
Born at Hampden in North Otago, where members of his family are now fourth generation farmers, Mr Nicolson has lived in Hawke's Bay for the past 35 years.
He left farming in the early 1930s to become one of the country's first meat inspectors - a job he did for nearly 40 years and which took him all over the country.
Always a lover of the outdoors, and especially gardening, Mr Nicolson was well known for providing his neighbours and friends with surplus vegetables when he lived in Marewa.
He was always a good one for a walk as well.
Although he drove until he was 96, when failing eyesight prompted him to sell his car, he would more often than not leave the car at home and walk.
