Miss Dyer, who competed in Masters Games walking races in Dunedin in her early 90s, was not sure what all the fuss was about.
''I thought lots of people lived to 100,'' said Miss Dyer, who had lived independently in her own home until late last year.
Born in Dunedin, Miss Dyer was a studious girl, attending Forbury School where she was dux.
She was a pupil at Otago Girls' High School before attending Dunedin Technical College for secretarial training.
''I spent most of my working life as secretary at Dunedin Plunket Society ... I heard a lot of crying,'' Miss Dyer said, laughing.
Although never married, she had many relatives as well as a large extended family of friends and international university students she had hosted
over the years.
She was a member of the Business Professional Women's club which led to travel around the world.
Most prominently, she was one of the first woman elders at the First Church of Otago.
Miss Dyer said that the secret to living to 100 was as simple as being healthy.
''Well I have been very healthy ... and I still enjoy all my friends,''
she said.
As for the celebration, the Home of St Barnabas trust in St Clair put on a special afternoon tea for her yesterday. A big party with all her friends and family is scheduled for this weekend.
Although she had not heard from the Queen yet, there was a pile of cards they were saving to open at the party.
When asked what was her greatest achievement, she was coy. ''My greatest achievement? ... dear, I do not know.''
Then confidently she said: ''The friends I have made''.
-By Fleur Mealing
