Mary Mathis turns 100 with wise words and red wheels

Katikati-area centenarian Mary Mathis marked her 100th birthday this month at Athenree Life, celebrating with family and close friends over an afternoon tea complete with cake, nibbles, speeches and a slideshow spanning her remarkable life. When asked the secret to her longevity, Mary's answer was characteristically direct: "Don't spend all your time trying to make other people happy."

Born in Te Aroha on 10 January 1925, of Swiss heritage, Mary was the youngest of eight children. She spent most of her life with her husband Lou and son Murray on a dairy farm outside Waihi, and is known for her outstanding cooking — including a talent for sneaking vegetables into meals disguised with plenty of butter and sugar. She maintained her garden and mowed lawns until the age of 90.

Mary was well known around Waihi for getting about in her shiny red Mitsubishi Galant, and later a shiny red mobility scooter. She loved Swiss music, yodelling and accordion playing, and was fond of teaching people a bit of German on her outings. She has two grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

On her big day Mary received letters from the King, the Prime Minister and the Mayor, which were presented by grandson Cory Mathis. True to form, she greeted her centenary with characteristic spirit: "I'm 100, but I feel 21!" The family later moved the celebration to the Talisman Hotel.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).