Mr Smith said he retired from a long career working with the National Airways Corporation. He had since had several strokes which had left him in a wheelchair, deaf in one ear and with very little sight in his right eye.
Rather than live out his days in peace, the 84-year-old has become a regular presenter on The Fulton Home Residents' Show on Otago Access Radio.
In fact, he has been there since it was first broadcast in 2003.
''It was a funny thing, really. I had no experience whatsoever in radio.
''One of the staff here [at Radius Fulton Care Centre] persuaded the home to start a radio programme and she said I had the voice to do radio.''
And with a little help from some radio engineers, a new career was launched.
During the past decade, the show has featured several co-hosts, but Mr Smith has been a constant presence, introducing a half-hour selection of nostalgic music, dedications and feature interviews.
He celebrated the 10th anniversary of the programme this week by tuning in to the pre-recorded Anzac Day-themed show with fellow residents at the care centre.
''It has been a quick 10 years, as far as I'm concerned. But it has been most interesting and enjoyable.''
One of the unexpected highlights of being on the show was that he had become something of a ''minor celebrity''.
''Yes, in a way, I am a celebrity. But I don't let it become anything much because I know I'm no Bryan Crump or Neil Collins.''
While he never lets his local fame go to his head, Mr Smith said he does enjoy it when residents knock on his door and make requests for him to play certain songs on his next show.
For that reason, he said he had no immediate plans to sign off.
''I enjoy it - it keeps me young.
''So I will continue to do it as long as I can.''
