Five things I'll be doing on holiday: Clark Kirkwood

Clark Kirkwood. Photo by James Beech.

1. My son Todd (15) and I run a mini-stock car at Cromwell Motor Speedway and they have a meeting on December 30 [called] War of the Wings and the New Year Grand Prix on January 1.

Todd drives in the junior race and I drive in the adult.

Eight laps per race and it can be up to 15 [cars] on the track at once for the children and a few less for the adults.

2. New Zealand is a young country and a lot of history comes from the gold-rush days.

It's enjoyable going down to the Arrow River panning for small pieces and looking for the large nugget.

It's quiet and I enjoy the exploration.

3. We have to keep the maintenance up on the house and painting is quite enjoyable.

Just being outside and watching the world go by as you're painting.

You get a level of satisfaction when you're finished.

4. We usually get together with family in Invercargill for Christmas and in the past we've had the usual roast turkey meal and, on occasion, a barbecue.

I do the spuds; that's the morning ritual!

5. I'll be working here between Christmas and New Year to help any new or existing clients with their vehicle needs.

There are occasions when we've had to supply a new car and deliver it to their home as a Christmas present for their partner.