Open/Close Toolbox
Format: Photograph
Linked To
Location (city or town)
Comments
AddBy: Brian Kerr22nd Apr 2017 7:41PMMervs milk bar was a great place to meet I still remember catching up with friends on a regular basis back in the mid 60s
Menu
Merv..from Mervs Milk Bar, and his wife Ang at his 80th Birthday.2016.
Expand/collapse
About this image
DescriptionMerv...from Mervs Milk Bar, and his wife Ang at his 80th Birthday.2016.Date of Photo2016Map[1] ContributorMichelle Griffin
Shown in this image
Category Information
Category TagFood
From Facebook
Date Created2017-04-22CommentsChris Verstappen He hasn't changed a bit :)
Don Hutton Great photo!
Malcolm Howell Great photo. Merv was part of our growing up as kids. He has my congratulations and blessings.
Kayla Hibbs Michelle Griffin
Julie Ann White Ageless
Mike Tyree Merv is what great people are known for what they do for others, just a top chap.
Rob Collins Great photo spent alot of time in Mervs drinking Rum and coke
Gill Paul George I remember Merve's Bar ... Thank you Merve. Good to remember the happier times... Gill Dallas
Rebekah Fairhurst Geer Great pic indeed, lovely couple
Brendon Barrow Hi Merv.
Lois Watts Thank you Merv for not telling on us when we wagged school at your milk bar.
Warren Parkin Lots of memories of merv, push biking in to get an ice, Jim mackintosh sitting outside with devil(a lovely German shepherd, the site of my bridie) sharing an ice cream, Jim holding it of course...
Bob Jamieson Hi. Merv, remember me, I designed your
Catherine Moffitt Rowlands Hi Bob, I used t work for you and Russell. Such a long time ago now.
Bob Jamieson They were good times Catherine.
Geoffrey King really I thought Russell King did lol
Bob Jamieson No, Russel was always to busy with the hotel. You should know that.
Like · Reply · Yesterday at 6:32pm
Geoffrey King
Geoffrey King so u fronted up to the hearings with the council / courts re the roof lining or were u absolved from that. and at that time he was not involved with the hotel get the facts straight please
Bob Jamieson there is nothing wrong with my facts, I designed Merv's shop. The ceiling linings ( NOT roof) court matters were held AFTER I left the practise. If you wish to carry on this in a public forum., go ahead.
Like · Reply · 3 · Yesterday at 6:50pm
Geoffrey King Bob Jamieson oh dear feathers ruffled i apologise
Raewyne Whitcombe Walker Really Mr King, not the place for that
Bob Jamieson thank you Geoffrey.
Geoffrey King Bob Jamieson lol
Peter Edwards Hi Catherine I can remember you running around the desk during the earthquake.
Catherine Moffitt Rowlands And my short skirts I expect.
Catherine Moffitt Rowlands I loved working there, I still love drawing but not typing. Those specifications took ages and six copies at once using carbon paper. And the smell of the ammonia when printing plans is something I won't forget.
L
Bob Jamieson Yes Catherine, lots of memories ( and smells... ammonia fumes.)
Rodney Harold Jellyman Enjoy your self Merv from the then Police Sargeant who caught the arsonist who broke in to your joint and several others over a period of time and your,s luckily had its fire put out before it could get hold.
Michelle Griffin Yes, remember that. It was a lucky save. You were there at the right time.
Heather Newby Hi Merv,, I remember your milkshakes
Kenny Williams Awesome people all the best.
Geoffrey King hasnt changed on bit
Carla Segaram My hubby was from Cobden Greymouth and says Merv use to make the best hamburgers
Debbie Halliwell Happy birthday Merv u still like the same after all those years your dairy was the best
Stephen Roberts Spent all my pocket money in that shop.Were great times
Heather Newby aniseed wheels
Marie Bone Wow still looking good
Jocelyn Hector You still look the same Merv always happyx
Raewyne Whitcombe Walker Happy birthday Merv, like all the others on here , loved your dairy,, I once tried to pinch a buzz bar, you caught me and slapped my hand. Taught me a lesson and took me months to come back, was so shamed.. You are one of Greymouths special icons...
Michelle Griffin Imagine if he did that now. Slapped your hand. He would be in big trouble.
Raewyne Whitcombe Walker Yea, and now Doing that I would of had a ride in police car and fingerprints and photo.. Your dad was very special to all the kids in town..
Elizabeth Betty Woods Grew up in Murray Street, spent a lot of time biking to Merv's!
Don Hutton Merv & Ang were Mum's excellent next door neighbours at 2 Ida St for many years. Their son mowed her lawns in her later years.
Michelle Griffin We loved her gardens so many beautiful Dalihas. Such a lovely lady. :)
Leonie Roberts Happy birthday Merv. Best dairy ever and best memories growing up. Thank you :)
Don Hutton Michelle Griffin I have some national certificates she won. Amazing considering the soil and climate she had to contend with!
Michelle Griffin Yes, they were perfection. I can still see her in her large garden with all the flowers blooming. It was nice to look at out my bedroom window.
Joy Devereux remember him well
Kaye Marinan Happy birthday Mervyn from Kaye and Bryon Marinan.
Kevin Bannan Great meeting place
Colleen Cochrane Well done Merv enjoy your day
Deb Woolhouse Merv was the best.. happy birthday and what an awesome family ..great job done
Michelle Griffin Merv is humbled by all the lovely comments. He had worked in the saw mills and brought his 1st shop from Mrs Johnson back in 1960. He enjoyed his working life at the shop, long hours but having so many loyal customers who he got to know so well made it worth while. Those were wonderful times back then. So many stories.
Jeanne Thomson Hi Mervyn George and I looked after the shop while you were on your honeymoon.
Alister Annear Such a special part of our Greymouth years and such a gentleman. Do recall a story that a child of the family got hit by a car at 5 years old. Michelle, recall our brief time together a couple of times when I came over there from Christchurch.
Michelle Griffin Yes I do. And yes my brother Darrell was hit by a car. He wanted to see his Dad. He just took off. Sad time. He was 4.
Tracy Halpin My lovely Uncle Merv xx
Brenda Crooks Merv was always a happy chappy. Was always a treat to drive over from Cobden for an ice cream from Merv's and then watch the water fountain lights change colour.
Barry Kennedy If it wasn't turned off because someone had put washing powder in the water
Sheryl Iraia Saw a lot of Nerve. Great guy.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · Yesterday at 8:14pm
Sandra Case
Sandra Case top chap
Roger Howell Merv and his wife were great people! Great service, honest pricing, and quality milkshakes and ice creams! Good luck to you both for long and happy lives together!
Dave Howell I used to look forward to having a lime milkshake every Saturday while mum and dad were playing bowls, they were sooo good I would have been 10 I think
David Mulloy good on you merv love that little milk bar and you brought some of your goods from griffin and smiths were i use to work so hope you enjoyed the rainy days of the west coast were you get wet inside and out cheers
Graham Hutton Happy Birthday Merv a real gentleman & a wonderful neighbour Love to you both.....
Megan Anne Good Selena Parker, Cecily O'Connell... brown derbys tripple scoop and large Jaffas! Happy birthday merv
Nancye Mahuika Happy birthday Merv , spent a lot of time in your shop when I was at Brown Walters
Patricia Heveldt Happy Birthday Merv. Thank you for all the amazing years you gave to Greymouth, with your Shop. I still to this day, think of it as Merv's Milk Bar
Glenice Hansen lovel
y couple still look the same mum rented the house before it was converted into the shop good memories
Stephen Hunter thanks for the good memories Merv loved your custom all those years
Sonya Stewart Always remember fondly u patiently waiting while trying to chose the right ice cream Thx Merv
Sandra Case thanks for the good times merv richard
Unlike · Reply · 2 · 14 hrs
Jason Warren
Jason Warren Hi Merv , hope you had a great birthday . When I stayed at my grandparents ( Margaret & Dutchy Gillman ) , in the early 1980s, who lived at 31 High St I used like putting a few 20c in my pocket and then heading for Dixion Park .Where I'd keep walking t...See More
Sandra Cudmore Happy Birthday Merv a real gentleman lots of memories do mer so milk bar Mike Roberts Damn! Merv still looks the same! Heather Newby thats what i reckon too!!
Barbara Fitzsimmons He was the best .so good to all us kids .loved going there .every week .6 ice cream. I'd lick them all on the way home .lmao .those boys
Heather Newby he was kind to kids... i remember that.. and I loved the Blue Lagoon milkshakes.
Sandra Geddes Yip great fellaon McCann Goes back a long way our Merv,Coast legendBarbara Fitzsimmons Ron McCann he wouldn't know you were in the shop .ti short lol
Ron McCann Barbara Fitzsimmons made enough noise Barb he new alrightRaewyne Whitcombe Walker Awesome man.. And I agree , Merv still looks the same... Happy birthday Merv.Alan N Barb Cochrane I went to merv's every day when i was expecting donna for a milk shake only to throw it up on my way home(made great milke shakes)Heather Newby ha ha ha...
Cherie Cochrane Them or you lol
Ann-Maree Duncan Fond memories of lovely people
Stephen Hunter Use to stop everyday to play the spaces at merv,s milkbar awesome people
Joy Devereux Remember him well from when I went to greymain
Sandy Smith So kind to young and old. Used to love ducking over to Merv's for a morning treat and chat when worked across the road many years ago.
Anne Miller Mcmillan Loved mervs milk bar.such a patient guy while we chose our treats. Thanx merv. Also hi ron mccann. Anne mcmillan here. How are u. Us thomson st brats.Wendy McDiarmid Anne Miller Mcmillan My Nana lived at 17 Thompson St, stayed there most school holidays when I was a kid
Anne Miller Mcmillan Would that have been mrs weaver love. We were no 7
Anne Miller Mcmillan 17 was on same side as us. Who was your grandmother x
Ron McCann Anne Miller Mcmillan Hi Anne now I'm an Ikamatua brat see Gary now and then alls good take care chicAnne Miller Mcmillan
Anne Miller Mcmillan Ron McCann gary had told me that u were up there. Love to catch up sometime Ron. Hows margaret. Last i heard she got parkinsons. Is she on fbook or do u have a ph no for her please.
Manag
Sue Vaughan Hasn’t changed. Great shop and lovely owners
Shirley Michael Palmer Loved going into Mervs. Milk bar. Amazing Man. Xxxx
Murray Webber Spent a lot of time in his milkbar, awesome memories
Pauline Matene Always so pleasant to talk to
Barbara Fitzsimmons Pauline Matene you weren't in there pinching lollies lol
Pauline Matene No, never pinched lollies, especially
Owen Winstanley I can remember Merv even before the Milk Bar days, when he worked in the sawmill at Ruru.
Ben Jellie I can remember buying smokes for mum at Mervsmilk bar
Chris Munn Saw ceiling tiles like his a few days ago. Reminded me of the Merv vs health inspectors shit fight.Lorraine Lewer Great memories at that milkbar
Che Norris This is so so sweet!
Joy Cox Best milkshakes EVER!!! Helen Cain Beautiful couple
Mary Hopkins Happy 80th
Malcolm Howell Great guy. A real Greymouth personality.
Debbie Halliwell Happy birthday Merv the best dairy in greymouth Shirley Barrow Best in NZ. Loved calling in on my walk home from shopping. Had the biggest, best icecream, always a smile and a joke. Really missed him when we moved to Cobden, although sometimes I would take the kids to Dickson Park and call in on the way home.
Rodger Fredericks Good man merv
Sue Abbott Best ice creams ever and the best customer service. Such a lovely kind man
Happy Birthday Jeanne Thomson Best wishes Merv and Ang xx How many years is it since I looked after your milk bar while you went on your honeymoon ? Jeanne Thomson
Stephanie Keen He hasn't changed a bit since I bought my lolly mixture in the 1960s! I thought he was really neat even then.
Ed Dando Remember that faceGlenda O'Donnell omg I remember Mervyn I hope he had a good birthdayhristina Minamizawa As a kid I remember going up there !! Happy birthday !!
Bruce Knight I can recall when I was a teenage, Merv always had time for us and was interested in what we were doing, even when the shop was (usually) busy. He was one of those people that made the world a better place.
Valda May Pattinson Bruce Knight yes Merv always had a smile for you . A genuine nice man to all us younger ones. Very patient Dave Howell Was the best
David Carty Worked with Merv at the lake Brunner sawmill ruru in the late fifties, before I left the coast.a great work mate.allthe best for your birthday
Ron McCann David Carty gidday bro good to see ya haven't forgotten the coast,hope all is well
David Carty Ron McCann gday young fella, great to hear from you it's been along time.hope all's well.marg and I was just talking about you guys just the other day,we are all well down here ,I will never forget the west coast coz I have a piece of it along side of me every day.lol.we are all well down here,keep in touch young fella and give our love to Sandy!!
Ron McCann David Carty yip alls good girls grown up and one grandson he's a wee ripper,look after that piece of coast ya got and will keep in touch
David Carty Ron McCann cool says marg!!!Ella Hanify I remember Merv so well, and the taste of those Snowflake ice- creams. We all felt cool going to Merv's milk bar. Happy 80th birthday!
Pamela Jones Nice one
Simon Judy Acarapi Lovely memories of the warm service and yummy aromas of sweet milk drinks. Anne Miller Mcmillan I dont recall merv having staff in shop either apart from his mum and dad the odd time. Great shift put in merv. Rhonda Roberts Great photo of you both
Doug Griffin Great guy
Dianne Smith Used to shop with Merv when we lived in Murray Street. He was always cheerful.
Gloria Kerridge Happy birthday Merv from Gloria and Peter Kerridge
Lisa Molloy Oh so remember him for many years
Michelle Mclean Remember you well
I loved your lollie as a kid
Always plenty in a brown paper bag.
Dana Williams-Lemon Michelle Griffin Cory Lemon
Vikki Yeoman Great photo!Alison Syder lovely photo remember them well at the Milkbar (Alison Williams was married to Bryan)
Russell Knipe And he drove the fastest Milkbar in the West. (Apologies to Benny Hill)
Helen Green I'm in Australia now. I remember your face, Merv. You're looking good!
Andy Grigg Had my share of ice creams and milkshakes there as a kid!
Ivan Murray Wilson Doesn't look any different!
Craig Murphy Rochelle Rankin, Clinto looks like his dad.Ella Hanify I remember Merv so well, and the taste of those Snowflake ice- creams. We all felt cool going to Merv's milk bar. Happy 80th birthday!
Sharon Robertson
Sharon Robertson Best banana chip ice creams ever...happy birthday
Chris Moriarty Always a milkshake after footy practice.....
Peter Edwards Chris Moriarty I don’t remember too many milkshakes after footy practiceChris Moriarty Ikamatua days Chuckles.....young and pure then.....
s
Bernie Hines I loved merv’s milkbar
Toni Richards I wonder where Fay is his sister.
Robert Scott
Living out in Dobson, we never got to goto his shop often. When we did go, he was always well spoken and you felt good, even before you had the milk shake.
Heather Newby
Robert Scott exactly
Rob Collins
Non alcoholic Rum and coke and Methol cigarettes can't beat it those were the days . Merv is a legend.
Brent David
Absolutely rolled gold, diamond encrusted friends of my parents…
Ann-Maree Duncan
Awesome people
Kerry Molloy
One of Greymouths enduring characters was Merv. agree with Rob-those rum& cokes often emulated but never beaten!
Sue Berry
Beautiful family, and legends of our time.in the community. Milkshakes were the best!
Anne Miller Mcmillan
Those were the days!. loved goin to Mervs as a kid . lovely couple merry xmas to u both
Karen Blanchfield
As kids, it was the best shop in the world….. well possibly second to Blanchfields Bakery. Merv worked incredibly long hours. So good to see them both so well.
Gareth And-Gill Davies
Great memories.merv was the best of all times.
Lois Tombs
Mervs shop was just the best. He treated everyone with respect
Robyn Edwards
Great memories! And all the very best to you both. Cheers, Robyn Guiney.
Ivan Murray Wilson
Never changed - always greeted you properly and was warm & friendly. A great example of how to do customer service.
Mary Edwards
We rented the flat behind the shop in 1970. He was always so cheerful.
Diane Burling
Grayson . Lovely photo of your parents
Robin Donaldson
Hardest working man in history!
Brendon Pongia
Robin Donaldson definitely. Hope you are well
Mate. See your daughter often at the gym.
Robin Donaldson
Brendon Pongia dont think Beth Donaldson would be as fit as you son!
Brendon Pongia
Robin Donaldson she is pretty fit along with that man of hers
Tony Pascoe
Great people to work for. Enjoyed my time there and basically grew up in that shop
Paul Kitto
Seeing this photo immediately put a smile on my face.
Mark Muir
Remember sitting in there reading all the comics .Meriv never told us of .or said youll have to buy that now .plus playing on that penny bunker game.top bloke .
Elleyna Rennie
Most beautiful couple, absolutely awesome, brings back many memories when with nana n grandad walking up the hill for grandad to get his paper every day, always made delicious milkshakes and wee Lollie scramble packs
Teresa McLaughlin
Angelina was mums cousin
June Briggs
Lovely man. Never raised his voice to anyone
Joy Devereux
Loved going in there , they were really nice people
Brendon Pongia
They were our neighbours opposite us on Ida Street
Rob Davis
Omg. Haven’t had a blue lagoon milkshake for decades.
Anna Goldie
Absolutely loved Mervs Milkbar Merv was always so kind.
Kathy Duthie
well goodness me, a greymouth icon, gee he hasent changed
Linda Calder
Everyone in town knew merves milk bar made the best icecreams
Trish Griffin
Loved the chocolate dip icecreams
Ange Beck
I still call it Merv’s… can’t get scooped ice cream there like you used to ?
Kelvin Henham
Wonderful guy and family use to hang out there or about most weekends in the early days
Murray Saunders
Always had a smile. As did anyone behind the counter.
And here’s the kicker.
Always open.
Happy born day legend
6h
Carole Holley
He was a special person, i lived in Murray street& was at him shop most days.
Aaron Green
My amazing Uncle Merv!! A hard worker, great family man and a very cool dude ?.
Plus my lovely Aunty Ang - a wonderful couple x
Martin Burt
Hasnt aged...
Shirley Michael Palmer
Birthday Celebrate Sticker by juliechicago
Shirley Michael Palmer
Happy Birthday Merv. You are amazing.
Delwyn Hughes
Great memories of Mervs Milkbar
Jill Ranger
lol I loved Mervs milk bar
The little shop crammed full of delicious lollies.
The new shop was fantastic even if the roof caused a few headaches.
Best ice creams. snowflake.
Best service
Mum or Mrs Stew as Merv called her bought ice blocks
by the dozen.
Great people very fond memories
Happy birthday
Justin Peat
Saturday nite ice creams from mervs were the go back in the day
Robin Donaldson
The hardest worker the world will ever see .bloody legend and the ice creams so great!!
Sharon Burrell
Fantastic brown derby ice creams ?
Stephen Lucas
I remember Merv in the 1960s
Bazza Morland
Nice photo of a. lovely couple.
Deb Murphy
Happy birthday Merv
Linda Winchester
Amazing people ❤️
Vicki Molloy
Happy birthday ?
Michele Buchanan
Lovely man lovely couple Happy birthday
Murray Hay
Kept his buzz bars in the chiller
Mmm mmm mmm
Kathy Duthie
great memories of this fine man
Alan Pegley
Absolute legend thank you guys
Mike Roberts
Top bloke....he had thousands of kids!! And the patience of a saint with us all ?
Esta Richardson
Happy Birthday from the Olsen's Pharmacy girls,have a great birthday Merv
Kerry Molloy
one of greymouths most unsung heroes was merv .
Edwin Lord
A Great Guy
Malcolm Howell
We all grew up with Merv as his business was our favourite Milk Bar. He knew all of us by name and always greeted us with a smile. He was always interested in what was happening in our lives. In later years while in uniform, I got to know Merv well. One Sunday my father went to Mervs to get the usual bottle of Cream and heard the shop attendant out the back calling for "help". My father rushed out the back to find a North Island woman struggling with the terrified attendant. My father soon put a stop to that and the woman fled the shop and hurriedly drove away in a "stolen" Car. Dad had foiled a robbery !!! The offender was soon apprehended and charged. She was no stranger to the Police or the Courts. Memories !!! Happy Birthday Merv !!! ???
I hope you and your wife are well Merv. You were simply the best !!!!
Grant Richardson
Great photo that
Colin Pearce
Loved Mervs..short walk up Tainui for my brother to trade coke bottles for lollies lol
Brenda Brown
Happy Birthday Merv
Kim Blanchfield
Happy Birthday Mr
Merv. SO Many Memories from lollies to chocolate coated ice creams Michelle Griffin and Wagging School
Richard Leach
Thanks chum Many happy hours in your establishment
Tarshia Soster-Lambert
Always the best selection of lollies! And the choc coated ice creams were the best!
Laurie Anisy
A great team.Both very hard workers .
Mary Hopkins
Great picture ❤️
Marion Mundie
I remember mervs shop still there different y owners
Glenda O'Donnell
I remember them so well
Denise Hassall
What a beautiful photo best shop and Greymouth lovely people Happy Birthday Merv nice to see you both happy and smiling
Heather Reid
so lovely to see them both happy birthday Mev???
Kenny Williams
Beautiful people of Greymouth
Lizzie McGrath
My lovely neighbours
Trish Rennie
This photo brings back lovely memories…awesome people whom served Greymouth so well ?
Bill Mcdonald
Good shop in it day
Trish Rennie
Love It Heart Sticker by ClaireaBella
Vern Pattinson
Good old Merv
Colin Skates
great couple, shopkeepers the way they were meant to be. Wonderful
Robin Whyte
Dad used to help in the shop many moons ago especially when merv wanted time of or was busy
Barbara Fitzsimmons
Always gave me a bigger scoop of icecream. And a few more lollies .wonderful days . Take me back .?
Anne McMillan Miller
Lovely couple. Both still looking great ?
Lyn Whittle
Choccy dipped ice creams
Frank Neame
Happy Brithday Merv delivered many a case of soft drinks to you can remember after the EQ helped you clean up the mess good to see news of you
Sheryl Iraia
Hi Merv. I was a frequent visitor to your shop. I lived in Kilgour Road. Always felt welcome. Good service and conversation. Hope you had a grand birthday
Julie Brown
As a kid I remember one of our treats was a Sunday drive calling into Mervs for a chocolate derby. An icon!
Donna Mackett
Merv made the best milkshakes
Rob Lunn
Great scouts ,Merv was still driving recently
Don Hutton Great photo!
Malcolm Howell Great photo. Merv was part of our growing up as kids. He has my congratulations and blessings.
Kayla Hibbs Michelle Griffin
Julie Ann White Ageless
Mike Tyree Merv is what great people are known for what they do for others, just a top chap.
Rob Collins Great photo spent alot of time in Mervs drinking Rum and coke
Gill Paul George I remember Merve's Bar ... Thank you Merve. Good to remember the happier times... Gill Dallas
Rebekah Fairhurst Geer Great pic indeed, lovely couple
Brendon Barrow Hi Merv.
Lois Watts Thank you Merv for not telling on us when we wagged school at your milk bar.
Warren Parkin Lots of memories of merv, push biking in to get an ice, Jim mackintosh sitting outside with devil(a lovely German shepherd, the site of my bridie) sharing an ice cream, Jim holding it of course...
Bob Jamieson Hi. Merv, remember me, I designed your
Catherine Moffitt Rowlands Hi Bob, I used t work for you and Russell. Such a long time ago now.
Bob Jamieson They were good times Catherine.
Geoffrey King really I thought Russell King did lol
Bob Jamieson No, Russel was always to busy with the hotel. You should know that.
Like · Reply · Yesterday at 6:32pm
Geoffrey King
Geoffrey King so u fronted up to the hearings with the council / courts re the roof lining or were u absolved from that. and at that time he was not involved with the hotel get the facts straight please
Bob Jamieson there is nothing wrong with my facts, I designed Merv's shop. The ceiling linings ( NOT roof) court matters were held AFTER I left the practise. If you wish to carry on this in a public forum., go ahead.
Like · Reply · 3 · Yesterday at 6:50pm
Geoffrey King Bob Jamieson oh dear feathers ruffled i apologise
Raewyne Whitcombe Walker Really Mr King, not the place for that
Bob Jamieson thank you Geoffrey.
Geoffrey King Bob Jamieson lol
Peter Edwards Hi Catherine I can remember you running around the desk during the earthquake.
Catherine Moffitt Rowlands And my short skirts I expect.
Catherine Moffitt Rowlands I loved working there, I still love drawing but not typing. Those specifications took ages and six copies at once using carbon paper. And the smell of the ammonia when printing plans is something I won't forget.
L
Bob Jamieson Yes Catherine, lots of memories ( and smells... ammonia fumes.)
Rodney Harold Jellyman Enjoy your self Merv from the then Police Sargeant who caught the arsonist who broke in to your joint and several others over a period of time and your,s luckily had its fire put out before it could get hold.
Michelle Griffin Yes, remember that. It was a lucky save. You were there at the right time.
Heather Newby Hi Merv,, I remember your milkshakes
Kenny Williams Awesome people all the best.
Geoffrey King hasnt changed on bit
Carla Segaram My hubby was from Cobden Greymouth and says Merv use to make the best hamburgers
Debbie Halliwell Happy birthday Merv u still like the same after all those years your dairy was the best
Stephen Roberts Spent all my pocket money in that shop.Were great times
Heather Newby aniseed wheels
Marie Bone Wow still looking good
Jocelyn Hector You still look the same Merv always happyx
Raewyne Whitcombe Walker Happy birthday Merv, like all the others on here , loved your dairy,, I once tried to pinch a buzz bar, you caught me and slapped my hand. Taught me a lesson and took me months to come back, was so shamed.. You are one of Greymouths special icons...
Michelle Griffin Imagine if he did that now. Slapped your hand. He would be in big trouble.
Raewyne Whitcombe Walker Yea, and now Doing that I would of had a ride in police car and fingerprints and photo.. Your dad was very special to all the kids in town..
Elizabeth Betty Woods Grew up in Murray Street, spent a lot of time biking to Merv's!
Don Hutton Merv & Ang were Mum's excellent next door neighbours at 2 Ida St for many years. Their son mowed her lawns in her later years.
Michelle Griffin We loved her gardens so many beautiful Dalihas. Such a lovely lady. :)
Leonie Roberts Happy birthday Merv. Best dairy ever and best memories growing up. Thank you :)
Don Hutton Michelle Griffin I have some national certificates she won. Amazing considering the soil and climate she had to contend with!
Michelle Griffin Yes, they were perfection. I can still see her in her large garden with all the flowers blooming. It was nice to look at out my bedroom window.
Joy Devereux remember him well
Kaye Marinan Happy birthday Mervyn from Kaye and Bryon Marinan.
Kevin Bannan Great meeting place
Colleen Cochrane Well done Merv enjoy your day
Deb Woolhouse Merv was the best.. happy birthday and what an awesome family ..great job done
Michelle Griffin Merv is humbled by all the lovely comments. He had worked in the saw mills and brought his 1st shop from Mrs Johnson back in 1960. He enjoyed his working life at the shop, long hours but having so many loyal customers who he got to know so well made it worth while. Those were wonderful times back then. So many stories.
Jeanne Thomson Hi Mervyn George and I looked after the shop while you were on your honeymoon.
Alister Annear Such a special part of our Greymouth years and such a gentleman. Do recall a story that a child of the family got hit by a car at 5 years old. Michelle, recall our brief time together a couple of times when I came over there from Christchurch.
Michelle Griffin Yes I do. And yes my brother Darrell was hit by a car. He wanted to see his Dad. He just took off. Sad time. He was 4.
Tracy Halpin My lovely Uncle Merv xx
Brenda Crooks Merv was always a happy chappy. Was always a treat to drive over from Cobden for an ice cream from Merv's and then watch the water fountain lights change colour.
Barry Kennedy If it wasn't turned off because someone had put washing powder in the water
Sheryl Iraia Saw a lot of Nerve. Great guy.
Unlike · Reply · 1 · Yesterday at 8:14pm
Sandra Case
Sandra Case top chap
Roger Howell Merv and his wife were great people! Great service, honest pricing, and quality milkshakes and ice creams! Good luck to you both for long and happy lives together!
Dave Howell I used to look forward to having a lime milkshake every Saturday while mum and dad were playing bowls, they were sooo good I would have been 10 I think
David Mulloy good on you merv love that little milk bar and you brought some of your goods from griffin and smiths were i use to work so hope you enjoyed the rainy days of the west coast were you get wet inside and out cheers
Graham Hutton Happy Birthday Merv a real gentleman & a wonderful neighbour Love to you both.....
Megan Anne Good Selena Parker, Cecily O'Connell... brown derbys tripple scoop and large Jaffas! Happy birthday merv
Nancye Mahuika Happy birthday Merv , spent a lot of time in your shop when I was at Brown Walters
Patricia Heveldt Happy Birthday Merv. Thank you for all the amazing years you gave to Greymouth, with your Shop. I still to this day, think of it as Merv's Milk Bar
Glenice Hansen lovel
y couple still look the same mum rented the house before it was converted into the shop good memories
Stephen Hunter thanks for the good memories Merv loved your custom all those years
Sonya Stewart Always remember fondly u patiently waiting while trying to chose the right ice cream Thx Merv
Sandra Case thanks for the good times merv richard
Unlike · Reply · 2 · 14 hrs
Jason Warren
Jason Warren Hi Merv , hope you had a great birthday . When I stayed at my grandparents ( Margaret & Dutchy Gillman ) , in the early 1980s, who lived at 31 High St I used like putting a few 20c in my pocket and then heading for Dixion Park .Where I'd keep walking t...See More
Sandra Cudmore Happy Birthday Merv a real gentleman lots of memories do mer so milk bar Mike Roberts Damn! Merv still looks the same! Heather Newby thats what i reckon too!!
Barbara Fitzsimmons He was the best .so good to all us kids .loved going there .every week .6 ice cream. I'd lick them all on the way home .lmao .those boys
Heather Newby he was kind to kids... i remember that.. and I loved the Blue Lagoon milkshakes.
Sandra Geddes Yip great fellaon McCann Goes back a long way our Merv,Coast legendBarbara Fitzsimmons Ron McCann he wouldn't know you were in the shop .ti short lol
Ron McCann Barbara Fitzsimmons made enough noise Barb he new alrightRaewyne Whitcombe Walker Awesome man.. And I agree , Merv still looks the same... Happy birthday Merv.Alan N Barb Cochrane I went to merv's every day when i was expecting donna for a milk shake only to throw it up on my way home(made great milke shakes)Heather Newby ha ha ha...
Cherie Cochrane Them or you lol
Ann-Maree Duncan Fond memories of lovely people
Stephen Hunter Use to stop everyday to play the spaces at merv,s milkbar awesome people
Joy Devereux Remember him well from when I went to greymain
Sandy Smith So kind to young and old. Used to love ducking over to Merv's for a morning treat and chat when worked across the road many years ago.
Anne Miller Mcmillan Loved mervs milk bar.such a patient guy while we chose our treats. Thanx merv. Also hi ron mccann. Anne mcmillan here. How are u. Us thomson st brats.Wendy McDiarmid Anne Miller Mcmillan My Nana lived at 17 Thompson St, stayed there most school holidays when I was a kid
Anne Miller Mcmillan Would that have been mrs weaver love. We were no 7
Anne Miller Mcmillan 17 was on same side as us. Who was your grandmother x
Ron McCann Anne Miller Mcmillan Hi Anne now I'm an Ikamatua brat see Gary now and then alls good take care chicAnne Miller Mcmillan
Anne Miller Mcmillan Ron McCann gary had told me that u were up there. Love to catch up sometime Ron. Hows margaret. Last i heard she got parkinsons. Is she on fbook or do u have a ph no for her please.
Manag
Sue Vaughan Hasn’t changed. Great shop and lovely owners
Shirley Michael Palmer Loved going into Mervs. Milk bar. Amazing Man. Xxxx
Murray Webber Spent a lot of time in his milkbar, awesome memories
Pauline Matene Always so pleasant to talk to
Barbara Fitzsimmons Pauline Matene you weren't in there pinching lollies lol
Pauline Matene No, never pinched lollies, especially
Owen Winstanley I can remember Merv even before the Milk Bar days, when he worked in the sawmill at Ruru.
Ben Jellie I can remember buying smokes for mum at Mervsmilk bar
Chris Munn Saw ceiling tiles like his a few days ago. Reminded me of the Merv vs health inspectors shit fight.Lorraine Lewer Great memories at that milkbar
Che Norris This is so so sweet!
Joy Cox Best milkshakes EVER!!! Helen Cain Beautiful couple
Mary Hopkins Happy 80th
Malcolm Howell Great guy. A real Greymouth personality.
Debbie Halliwell Happy birthday Merv the best dairy in greymouth Shirley Barrow Best in NZ. Loved calling in on my walk home from shopping. Had the biggest, best icecream, always a smile and a joke. Really missed him when we moved to Cobden, although sometimes I would take the kids to Dickson Park and call in on the way home.
Rodger Fredericks Good man merv
Sue Abbott Best ice creams ever and the best customer service. Such a lovely kind man
Happy Birthday Jeanne Thomson Best wishes Merv and Ang xx How many years is it since I looked after your milk bar while you went on your honeymoon ? Jeanne Thomson
Stephanie Keen He hasn't changed a bit since I bought my lolly mixture in the 1960s! I thought he was really neat even then.
Ed Dando Remember that faceGlenda O'Donnell omg I remember Mervyn I hope he had a good birthdayhristina Minamizawa As a kid I remember going up there !! Happy birthday !!
Bruce Knight I can recall when I was a teenage, Merv always had time for us and was interested in what we were doing, even when the shop was (usually) busy. He was one of those people that made the world a better place.
Valda May Pattinson Bruce Knight yes Merv always had a smile for you . A genuine nice man to all us younger ones. Very patient Dave Howell Was the best
David Carty Worked with Merv at the lake Brunner sawmill ruru in the late fifties, before I left the coast.a great work mate.allthe best for your birthday
Ron McCann David Carty gidday bro good to see ya haven't forgotten the coast,hope all is well
David Carty Ron McCann gday young fella, great to hear from you it's been along time.hope all's well.marg and I was just talking about you guys just the other day,we are all well down here ,I will never forget the west coast coz I have a piece of it along side of me every day.lol.we are all well down here,keep in touch young fella and give our love to Sandy!!
Ron McCann David Carty yip alls good girls grown up and one grandson he's a wee ripper,look after that piece of coast ya got and will keep in touch
David Carty Ron McCann cool says marg!!!Ella Hanify I remember Merv so well, and the taste of those Snowflake ice- creams. We all felt cool going to Merv's milk bar. Happy 80th birthday!
Pamela Jones Nice one
Simon Judy Acarapi Lovely memories of the warm service and yummy aromas of sweet milk drinks. Anne Miller Mcmillan I dont recall merv having staff in shop either apart from his mum and dad the odd time. Great shift put in merv. Rhonda Roberts Great photo of you both
Doug Griffin Great guy
Dianne Smith Used to shop with Merv when we lived in Murray Street. He was always cheerful.
Gloria Kerridge Happy birthday Merv from Gloria and Peter Kerridge
Lisa Molloy Oh so remember him for many years
Michelle Mclean Remember you well
I loved your lollie as a kid
Always plenty in a brown paper bag.
Dana Williams-Lemon Michelle Griffin Cory Lemon
Vikki Yeoman Great photo!Alison Syder lovely photo remember them well at the Milkbar (Alison Williams was married to Bryan)
Russell Knipe And he drove the fastest Milkbar in the West. (Apologies to Benny Hill)
Helen Green I'm in Australia now. I remember your face, Merv. You're looking good!
Andy Grigg Had my share of ice creams and milkshakes there as a kid!
Ivan Murray Wilson Doesn't look any different!
Craig Murphy Rochelle Rankin, Clinto looks like his dad.Ella Hanify I remember Merv so well, and the taste of those Snowflake ice- creams. We all felt cool going to Merv's milk bar. Happy 80th birthday!
Sharon Robertson
Sharon Robertson Best banana chip ice creams ever...happy birthday
Chris Moriarty Always a milkshake after footy practice.....
Peter Edwards Chris Moriarty I don’t remember too many milkshakes after footy practiceChris Moriarty Ikamatua days Chuckles.....young and pure then.....
s
Bernie Hines I loved merv’s milkbar
Toni Richards I wonder where Fay is his sister.
Robert Scott
Living out in Dobson, we never got to goto his shop often. When we did go, he was always well spoken and you felt good, even before you had the milk shake.
Heather Newby
Robert Scott exactly
Rob Collins
Non alcoholic Rum and coke and Methol cigarettes can't beat it those were the days . Merv is a legend.
Brent David
Absolutely rolled gold, diamond encrusted friends of my parents…
Ann-Maree Duncan
Awesome people
Kerry Molloy
One of Greymouths enduring characters was Merv. agree with Rob-those rum& cokes often emulated but never beaten!
Sue Berry
Beautiful family, and legends of our time.in the community. Milkshakes were the best!
Anne Miller Mcmillan
Those were the days!. loved goin to Mervs as a kid . lovely couple merry xmas to u both
Karen Blanchfield
As kids, it was the best shop in the world….. well possibly second to Blanchfields Bakery. Merv worked incredibly long hours. So good to see them both so well.
Gareth And-Gill Davies
Great memories.merv was the best of all times.
Lois Tombs
Mervs shop was just the best. He treated everyone with respect
Robyn Edwards
Great memories! And all the very best to you both. Cheers, Robyn Guiney.
Ivan Murray Wilson
Never changed - always greeted you properly and was warm & friendly. A great example of how to do customer service.
Mary Edwards
We rented the flat behind the shop in 1970. He was always so cheerful.
Diane Burling
Grayson . Lovely photo of your parents
Robin Donaldson
Hardest working man in history!
Brendon Pongia
Robin Donaldson definitely. Hope you are well
Mate. See your daughter often at the gym.
Robin Donaldson
Brendon Pongia dont think Beth Donaldson would be as fit as you son!
Brendon Pongia
Robin Donaldson she is pretty fit along with that man of hers
Tony Pascoe
Great people to work for. Enjoyed my time there and basically grew up in that shop
Paul Kitto
Seeing this photo immediately put a smile on my face.
Mark Muir
Remember sitting in there reading all the comics .Meriv never told us of .or said youll have to buy that now .plus playing on that penny bunker game.top bloke .
Elleyna Rennie
Most beautiful couple, absolutely awesome, brings back many memories when with nana n grandad walking up the hill for grandad to get his paper every day, always made delicious milkshakes and wee Lollie scramble packs
Teresa McLaughlin
Angelina was mums cousin
June Briggs
Lovely man. Never raised his voice to anyone
Joy Devereux
Loved going in there , they were really nice people
Brendon Pongia
They were our neighbours opposite us on Ida Street
Rob Davis
Omg. Haven’t had a blue lagoon milkshake for decades.
Anna Goldie
Absolutely loved Mervs Milkbar Merv was always so kind.
Kathy Duthie
well goodness me, a greymouth icon, gee he hasent changed
Linda Calder
Everyone in town knew merves milk bar made the best icecreams
Trish Griffin
Loved the chocolate dip icecreams
Ange Beck
I still call it Merv’s… can’t get scooped ice cream there like you used to ?
Kelvin Henham
Wonderful guy and family use to hang out there or about most weekends in the early days
Murray Saunders
Always had a smile. As did anyone behind the counter.
And here’s the kicker.
Always open.
Happy born day legend
6h
Carole Holley
He was a special person, i lived in Murray street& was at him shop most days.
Aaron Green
My amazing Uncle Merv!! A hard worker, great family man and a very cool dude ?.
Plus my lovely Aunty Ang - a wonderful couple x
Martin Burt
Hasnt aged...
Shirley Michael Palmer
Birthday Celebrate Sticker by juliechicago
Shirley Michael Palmer
Happy Birthday Merv. You are amazing.
Delwyn Hughes
Great memories of Mervs Milkbar
Jill Ranger
lol I loved Mervs milk bar
The little shop crammed full of delicious lollies.
The new shop was fantastic even if the roof caused a few headaches.
Best ice creams. snowflake.
Best service
Mum or Mrs Stew as Merv called her bought ice blocks
by the dozen.
Great people very fond memories
Happy birthday
Justin Peat
Saturday nite ice creams from mervs were the go back in the day
Robin Donaldson
The hardest worker the world will ever see .bloody legend and the ice creams so great!!
Sharon Burrell
Fantastic brown derby ice creams ?
Stephen Lucas
I remember Merv in the 1960s
Bazza Morland
Nice photo of a. lovely couple.
Deb Murphy
Happy birthday Merv
Linda Winchester
Amazing people ❤️
Vicki Molloy
Happy birthday ?
Michele Buchanan
Lovely man lovely couple Happy birthday
Murray Hay
Kept his buzz bars in the chiller
Mmm mmm mmm
Kathy Duthie
great memories of this fine man
Alan Pegley
Absolute legend thank you guys
Mike Roberts
Top bloke....he had thousands of kids!! And the patience of a saint with us all ?
Esta Richardson
Happy Birthday from the Olsen's Pharmacy girls,have a great birthday Merv
Kerry Molloy
one of greymouths most unsung heroes was merv .
Edwin Lord
A Great Guy
Malcolm Howell
We all grew up with Merv as his business was our favourite Milk Bar. He knew all of us by name and always greeted us with a smile. He was always interested in what was happening in our lives. In later years while in uniform, I got to know Merv well. One Sunday my father went to Mervs to get the usual bottle of Cream and heard the shop attendant out the back calling for "help". My father rushed out the back to find a North Island woman struggling with the terrified attendant. My father soon put a stop to that and the woman fled the shop and hurriedly drove away in a "stolen" Car. Dad had foiled a robbery !!! The offender was soon apprehended and charged. She was no stranger to the Police or the Courts. Memories !!! Happy Birthday Merv !!! ???
I hope you and your wife are well Merv. You were simply the best !!!!
Grant Richardson
Great photo that
Colin Pearce
Loved Mervs..short walk up Tainui for my brother to trade coke bottles for lollies lol
Brenda Brown
Happy Birthday Merv
Kim Blanchfield
Happy Birthday Mr
Merv. SO Many Memories from lollies to chocolate coated ice creams Michelle Griffin and Wagging School
Richard Leach
Thanks chum Many happy hours in your establishment
Tarshia Soster-Lambert
Always the best selection of lollies! And the choc coated ice creams were the best!
Laurie Anisy
A great team.Both very hard workers .
Mary Hopkins
Great picture ❤️
Marion Mundie
I remember mervs shop still there different y owners
Glenda O'Donnell
I remember them so well
Denise Hassall
What a beautiful photo best shop and Greymouth lovely people Happy Birthday Merv nice to see you both happy and smiling
Heather Reid
so lovely to see them both happy birthday Mev???
Kenny Williams
Beautiful people of Greymouth
Lizzie McGrath
My lovely neighbours
Trish Rennie
This photo brings back lovely memories…awesome people whom served Greymouth so well ?
Bill Mcdonald
Good shop in it day
Trish Rennie
Love It Heart Sticker by ClaireaBella
Vern Pattinson
Good old Merv
Colin Skates
great couple, shopkeepers the way they were meant to be. Wonderful
Robin Whyte
Dad used to help in the shop many moons ago especially when merv wanted time of or was busy
Barbara Fitzsimmons
Always gave me a bigger scoop of icecream. And a few more lollies .wonderful days . Take me back .?
Anne McMillan Miller
Lovely couple. Both still looking great ?
Lyn Whittle
Choccy dipped ice creams
Frank Neame
Happy Brithday Merv delivered many a case of soft drinks to you can remember after the EQ helped you clean up the mess good to see news of you
Sheryl Iraia
Hi Merv. I was a frequent visitor to your shop. I lived in Kilgour Road. Always felt welcome. Good service and conversation. Hope you had a grand birthday
Julie Brown
As a kid I remember one of our treats was a Sunday drive calling into Mervs for a chocolate derby. An icon!
Donna Mackett
Merv made the best milkshakes
Rob Lunn
Great scouts ,Merv was still driving recently
Editing is temporarily disabled
Cancel EditClick on the image to add
a tag or press ESC to cancel
a tag or press ESC to cancel
West Coast New Zealand History (3rd Oct 2025). Merv..from Mervs Milk Bar, and his wife Ang at his 80th Birthday.2016.. In Website West Coast New Zealand History. Retrieved 4th Apr 2026 10:27, from https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/19943