News
Southland has farewelled several well-known and much-loved figures over recent months, each leaving behind a legacy woven into the fabric of our community. From broadcasting and the arts to retail, racing and grassroots industry, these individuals helped shape the character of Invercargill and the wider region.
JOHN HUSBAND
The most recent loss is that of legendary broadcaster, artist and arts curator John Husband, who passed away this past week aged 95.
John rose to prominence — and in some circles, a touch of infamy — through his Southland Talks Back show on Foveaux Radio. His programme was appointment listening, with John unafraid to say on air what many Southlanders were already thinking about local and national issues.
His passion for the arts ran just as deep. John’s works were widely sold and featured in the books he published over many years. He served as Gallery Director at Anderson Park for 34 years, influencing generations of Southland artists.
The Invercargill Public Art Gallery summed up his legacy perfectly, noting that “John leaves behind a remarkable body of work – a legacy of immense cultural value that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.” Many of his pieces remain in the gallery’s collection.
Alongside broadcasting and art, John was a gifted jazz drummer who played with many of the region’s talented musicians, particularly known for his delicate work with the brushes. A private cremation has been held.
ALLAN WHITE
Another notable loss is Alan White, whose name became synonymous with inner-city retail through Alan White Sports. For decades, Alan and his loyal team outfitted hundreds upon hundreds of Southlanders — from aspiring athletes chasing big dreams to families simply gearing up for the weekend’s game.
His death notice described him as an accomplished and highly respected sports dealer throughout New Zealand. The business continues to operate today on Esk Street, carrying on the legacy Alan helped build. Alan White passed away aged 97.
NOEL McINTYRE
Southland also farewelled Noel McIntyre, of Noel McIntyre Drainage Ltd — a man whose work helped shape and develop much of the region’s productive farmland.
Tributes describe Noel as someone who loved nothing more than a yarn and a hard day’s graft. He and his family were heavily involved in the Southland Competitions Society, as well as local motorsport, further cementing their place in the community. Noel passed away in August, with a large funeral held at Transport World.
TONY DENNIS
The racing community has also been mourning the loss of Tony Dennis, a stalwart of Southland and New Zealand thoroughbred racing. Tony was one of four brothers who established a highly successful training and breeding operation near Woodlands, which thrived for more than six decades.
Their operation produced some of the country’s best-known racehorses, including The Phantom, The Phantom Chance, The Jewel and The Chosen One, all of whom achieved success at the highest levels on both sides of the Tasman.
Tony passed away in August after a lengthy illness, aged 86, leaving behind a legacy deeply embedded in New Zealand racing history.
MURRAY BROWN
Earlier this year, well-known harness racing trainer Murray Brown also passed away. He enjoyed a long and successful career, training 551 winners, many of them on his home track at Ascot Park. His contribution to the region’s racing story will be remembered for years to come.
DAVID HUBBER
In recent days the city has also said goodbye to one of its great characters, David Hubber, the long-time owner of Hubbers Emporium — a shop unlike anything else in Invercargill.
David began the mid-city house of collectables many years ago after running a variety of businesses successfully. It has been reported that he bought the current building for 75 pounds decades ago. What the property, and the site itself, might be worth today is anyone’s guess.
David Hubber passed away peacefully earlier this month aged 84, leaving behind a business and a legacy remembered fondly by generations of locals.
