Having brought up five boys and five girls, Gisborne’s Wendy and Les Kays are used to being busy.
Being active is something that’s continued well into their retirement, with lawn bowls, water aerobics classes and social appointments just part of their regular schedule.
The Gisborne couple, who have lived in the area their entire married life, will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Thursday.
‘‘We can’t remember very much of it,’’ said Mrs Kays with a laugh of the long journey.
With 10 kids and Les having to run his own petrol distribution business, we just kind of got on with things.’’
Twenty-six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren continue to ensure they have lots to do.
Like many couples of their era, the Kays met at a country dance. But the tale of their engagement is rather less conventional.
‘‘We were on our way to Yea and the car broke down,’’ Mrs Kays says.
‘‘We spent all this time waiting and Les said, ‘Well, I think we ought to get married’.
‘‘It was no great romantic proposal. But then, we knew it was going to work.’’
As to what advice they would offer to young couples, the Kays are big advocates for healthy communication.
‘‘Don’t let problems continue and have everything go out the window with it,’’ Mrs Kays says.
Mr and Mrs Kays will hold a large celebration with family and friends on Sunday.
