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AddBy: Helen Stowell 11th Mar 2021 10:31AMHelen Stowell (Hamilton) I forgive you for missing me out John. I worked with Colleen Collie. Amazing that you’re now working on my Granddaughter. Lovely to catch up again.
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Dentist John Burford, and Dental Assistant Jackie Mundy.1964.
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Descriptionwith Jackie Mundy, my first dental assistant. Then there were Diane MeLellan, Colleen Collie, Olene Ellen, Patsy Farmer, Maria Davies, Trish Briggs, Jo Duffy, Jill Ranger, Ruth Tinnelly, Jeanette Buchanan, Leanne Burrell, and Merle Anderson. All excellent ladies and good friends during 28 years of great times on the Coast. Who have I forgotten? And where are they now? Date of Photo1964Map[1] ContributorJohn Burford
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Location (city or town)GreymouthPersonJackie Mundy Jill Ranger Ruth TinnellyLeanne Burrell Merle AndersonPatsy Farmer, Maria DaviesTrish Briggs Jo DuffyJeanette Buchanan Diane MeLellanColleen CollieOlene EllenEventDentistry in Greymouth 1964
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Date Created26th July 2020CommentsDan Mckinley I'll never forget or forgive nurse Harris at grey main
Maria Delury Smith I feel your pain, school dentists certainly did a lot of damage back in the day.
Gavin Davy The murder house. Everyone dreaded going.
Dave Lyes He did my braces as a kid.
Sandra Arnott Good dentist!
Robin Whyte The best greymouth ever had my teeth were not straight so one day asked John bout braces the answer I got was you don't need them looked at him strangely he told me your teeth will straighten by themselves and how right he was saved me all the hassle of having braces many thanks john
Elverie Burford Robin Whyte Thanks Robin. I have finally decided to retire after 28 years in Greymouth then 30 years in Auckland.
But I will always consider myself as a West Coaster.
John
Robin Whyte Born on the coast you will be always a coaster got a few more years before I retire but enjoying life on the coast as long as I have a job here hopefully retire here although things aren't like they use to be now the the gangs have moved in and all the p addicts
Debz Turner Ruth Tinnelly is married and living somewhere in Australia.
Marion E Mundy Where is Jackie mundy
Alex McDougall I remember it well
Lynne Brown I worked Nicholls north Nicholls just across the same floor above ford motors. Remember you both very well. I also remember you putting teeth into a mould and putting them on my counter John burford this was early days. Good days though.
Heather Gaulter A good dentist - a great guy
Heather Newby great dentist.. he restored my trust in dentistry
Pauline Schafer He looked after my teeth from the age of 12 when I broke my two front ones, and was so good. When he left town I didn't know who else I could go to, so I didn't go at all for 8 years! When I moved to Aussie my flatmate talked me into going to his dentist, and I had 8 fillings. Then they started quoting me to get a lot of crowns done as my teeth were fairly rotten and full of fillings. I was quoted $19,000 for 12 teeth, so I actually went to Thailand and got them done over there, and the $19,000 covered all my top teeth being crowned as well as the double teeth on the bottom. I regularly go to the dentist every 6 months to a different dentist on the Gold Coast for a clean and he keeps an eye on me and is very good. My younger daughter works for him as a dental assistant.
Lorraine Greenfield
Lorraine Greenfield He was a marvellous dentist for me. I was in getting teeth done and had to have a porcelain tooth put in the front there was a car accident where my baby son was injured while I was at the dental surgery he was in Grey h ospital they rang John who said he needed to inject more medication to deaden the pain but in actual fact it was so I could cope when I went floated to the hospital. Good man.
Fiona Bisphan A great dentist for me as a kid. Saved my parents thousands for braces by just removing a couple of teeth and they all moved into place. He also did my gold cap as a 13 year old.
Tara Pittams Fixed my teeth as well
Judy Bagnall I was one of the first patients in the new clinic in Albert mall. Had to get a tooth fixed that the dental nurse ruined!
Geoffrey King Oh Jeanette Buchanan well we wont go there!Anne Miller Mcmillan Geoffrey King Sorry Geoffrey . Normally i wouldnt butt in. But that is totally uncalled for.
Jeanette Sands And I loved you Geoffrey
Doreen Wallis I love that he names all his Dental Assistant
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould Fantastic boss will never forget my days working for John at the other clinic by the Railway station
Clarice Hutt We need more dentists, I tried to get an appointment last week as I’d broken a tooth and I couldn’t get one till October!
Kate Hamilton try coast smiles dental spa
Barb Rodway Mine as well Heather,John B was a great dentist.
Sue Vaughan The best dentist ever.Helen McEwen I remember getting my braces done by him
Pauline Schafer My dentist is fully booked for 2-3 months on the Gold Coast. They’re busier than pre-COVID!
Karen Annette Gardiner Hi John,My teeth you did 36 years ago are still great. Thankyou.
Elizabeth Betty Woods Cheryl McMaster did Donna work for John Burford. I can recall an image of her in one of his Coast books!
Karen Perryman got miy teeth from john burford 46- 47 years ago still doing well no problems not like how you have to get one set then a yr later have to get another set waste of money better the way john did them
Kyle Webster Bought a copy of John's book The Coast & the Coaster's in the second hand shop last week-bargain
Karen Lawson He was a much better dentist than the one we had in Hokitika at the same time. Charles Dickens I think his surname was. Man he was rough.
Manage
Jeanette Sands And Elaine back in the 80s on the front desk.
Chris Verstappen I used to work for you sometimes in the school holidays.as all I wanted to be was a school dental nurse which I achieved and was proud to be one ...John believed in me and gave me an insight ...
I also babysat his children which was an honour ..they were so well behaved
So now as time goes on I am now working for the NMDHB as a dental assistant at Wairau Hospital ...so lovely to have had this fantastic journey in Dentistry in my life
Chris Verstappen nee Ferguson ..a West Coaster
Trish Briggs You were a fantastic dentist John and a great boss.
Robin Peterson
Robin Peterson I remember being a patient listening to Gregorian chants
Neroli Liddell He took all my wisdom teeth out
Kathy Duthie i was put of because some one said burford the butcher. not true
Stacey Mather - Clouston Best dentist ever
Jeanette Sands No he wasn't a butcher, but he was way before his time, and not really fully appreciated until he moved to auckland. That is when he really showed his amazing knowledge of head neck and face, not just teeth. John is, and was, a genius in his field. Only we who worked with him would fully appreciate that\
Lexine M Riley
Cheryl Cain.
Margaret river
Elverie Burford
Are you saying Cheryl is living in Margaret River WA?
Lexine M Riley
Elverie Burford yes.
Trish Briggs
You were a fantastic dentist John and a great boss.
Robin Peterson
I remember being a patient listening to Gregorian chants
Neroli Liddell
He took all my wisdom teeth out
Kathy Duthie
i was put of because some one said burford the butcher. not true
Stacey Mather - Clouston
Best dentist ever
Jeanette Sands
No he wasn't a butcher, but he was way before his time, and not really fully appreciated until he moved to auckland. That is when he really showed his amazing knowledge of head neck and face, not just teeth. John is, and was, a genius in his field. Onl… See More
Laura Mills Detlaff
Lexine M Riley
Cheryl Cain.
Margaret river
Elverie Burford
Are you saying Cheryl is living in Margaret River WA?
Lexine M Riley
Elverie Burford yes. Lexine M Riley
Cheryl CallardChristine Rose Ashdown
wow John was my dentist for year until 1969 when i left for Dunedin maiden name Briggs
Elverie Burford
John here again! Well Jeanette, its not often I am lost for words! you are very kind to an old man. Actually you usually only get to hear nice things about yourself if you attend your own funeral. And it's not easy to do that. Take care. JohnJeanette Sands
Thought you should hear it before a funeral. Lol. Come to think of it, I've never seen you lost for words either. But it's the truth as I saw it. All the best to you and elv.
Jeanette Sands
Hey John...Gina here.... I've been meaning to message you. Everything mum said is totally true.... And working in the surgery etc was one the best experiences of my life... And I never really thanked you for everything... So thank you John.... Also, I… See More
Brian Beban
Gidday John. You were a good neighbour too. Cheers.
Pauline Burrows
Plus a good Photographer..and good at Basketball ..
A great Neighbour to us (Bebans).
Hi John...
eanne Burrell Great photo John! Thanks for sharing this. You taught me so much in the time I worked with you, and I’m truly grateful for the knowledge you passed on to me. I’m still in dentistry and enjoying every minute. I wish you the best in retirement… however, I have a feeling I’ll see you at an NZDA conference again soon!!Debz Turner
Ruth Tinnelly lives in Australia.
Pam Englefield-Absolum
Debz Turner taught Ruth.
Reply
2h
Debz Turner
Pam Englefield-Absolum Ruth and I grew up n Boddytown.
Ann-Maree Duncan
John took my second row of tèeth out when I was about 11 years old.
No idea why I had extra
Marilyn Ramsay
I use to go to John Burford
Heather Newby
Marilyn Ramsay me too.. what a relief after the school dental clinic!!
Stephen Lucas
Also great photographer I have his book
Jakie Mundie miss West Coast
Cathie Pengelly
Was he above where Olsons is now
Karen Perryman
Cathie Pengelly when i went to him he was in Albert street new where dr dallas was
Marilyn Ramsay
Cathie Pengelly yes he was
Cathie Pengelly
Marilyn Ramsay I remember being 6. My teacher took me there as I chipped my front tooth at Runanga school
Marilyn Ramsay
Cathie PengellyCathie Pengelly yes I hated going to the dentist every time I had to have something done
Elizabeth Ann Beech
John pulled my first wisdom tooth out. Fortunately I've still got a couple left!!
Vern Pattinson
Thank you for sharing this!
Christine Rose Ashdown
I remember Jacki as well John was my dentist and also pulled out the 2nd row of teeth
Margaret Crowley
went there as well
Ferilyth Brady
Loved working for you all those years ago
Diane Mclellan
My first job after leaving school - just loved it.
Mari Walsh
He was my dentist... was just fantastic
Pauline Schafer
He was my dentist from when I was 12 and broke my two front teeth. Very gentle and a good dentist.
Sheryl Iraia
He's had his hands in my mouth. lol
Dean Mundy
Tony Mundy relation?
Lyn Whittle
I worked with Ian Hamilton , now I’m a Dental Hygienist currently practicing in Christchurch , in the industry for 26 years now
Gail Bradley
Lyn Whittle Ian Hamilton was a great Dentist but also a real nice Guy.
Marie Grgic
I have to say in my life he was the only person i hated to see.
Geoffrey King
Oh I think he married with Jeannette Buchanan
Yvonne Lawson
My dentist too. Remember Jackie too
Paula Bruce
Is that really you John? Looks a Lot like Spock actually
Kay Brewer
Does any one know what happened to Jackie
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Ferilyth Brady and I worked for John he was a good boss I worked at Railway station one and Feriylth at the other good times
Lyn Whittle
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould I worked with the beautiful Ferylith up until she retired. She’s a gem
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Lyn Whittle my best friend still
Shazza Ian
Stacia your aunty O
Sharon Burrell
Have you seen this Leanne Burrell and you're still in the industry
Trish Briggs
Yes I saw it this morning. Great boss
Kathryn Ward
Merle Mason, this was a few years ago.
Alison Newland
I was in the chair when the alarm sounded for the Strongman Mine disaster.
Helen Burns
Great dentist !!
Jeanne McEwen
Brilliant dentist
Geoff Roberts
As a West coast dentist....did you ever know of a Ron Taylor....our family dentist in 50s an 60s....He used to come shooting on our Maruia farm in those days...
Jill Wilson
A wonderful dentist. I hope he is happy and living a good life in Auckland
Ingrid Ferguson
He married Jeanette Garderner from Hokitika, she was his dental assistist. Mayby they are still together.
Helen Nolan
Ingrid Ferguson no they’re not
Ingrid Ferguson
His first wife Clare had to have total bed rest during her pregnacey for all of their children. in the early days.
Anne Hines
I remember his book of coast pics……
Helen O'Dea
Anne Hines I’m in that book along with others from Stillwater School
Helen Nolan
Brilliant dentist!! Ruth Tinnelly was receptionist when I was going there … way back in the 80’s
Wayne Diedrichs
Great dentist still wearing the same false teeth forty years later after getting all my teeth pulled out in the eighty’s
Chris Verstappen
I used to work for John during school holidays ...and babysat their beautiful children...
I always wanted to be a school dental nurse which I achieved... finally for the last 7 years I worked for NMDHB as a dental assistant and have just retired gracefully...a fantastic personal journey
Maiden name Ferguson....John was the best Dentist
Lexine M Riley
Cheryl Callard Margaret river
Cheryl Callard
I was John chaiside assistant for many years (Cheryl Riley/Cain)with Alaine at Reception.. remember us guys
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Cheryl Callard I do
Do you mean Alayn McRoberts
Ivan Murray Wilson
Can't recall any others John but I'm still "partially" happy!
Ivan Murray Wilson
Memories of The Baron Knights song - you'll recall the one.
Robert John Mallinson
Dont know about this lot , but remember the Travelling dentist which came to the Haast school , WITH a Treadle drill set up in 64 , got bogged in my tooth = lotsa pulling to get it out = Avoided dentists to this day
Heather Newby
Author
Admin
Robert John Mallinson i remember the pedal treadle drill too.. got bogged in my tooth too. i avoid dentists too.
Lesley Thomas
Reg can remember him coming to Jaycees and giving a talk on his travels to Alaska
Geoffrey King
Lesley Thomas Was Bob Jamieson the President then?
Neroli Liddell
Took all my wisdom teeth out
Geoffrey King
Neroli Liddell so is that the problem
Geoffrey King
Neroli Liddell sorry just my sense of humour.
Christopher Morresey
I still have fillings that John put in 60 years ago
Jane Clayton
John Burford you used a fluoride treatment on my teeth in the 70s and I still have no fillings!
Reply
1d
Kerry Keating
Jane Clayton Me too Jane. No fillings for a little over 50 years. O th taken back then. Gouged the centre of my teeth opening bottles of beer with them.
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Who remembers the day some one put a cow skull on the door in Albert street with a cigarette hanging from it mouth and no teeth
It had a sign on it saying saying I have my own teeth and I don’t smoke .
This was because the job add asked fir a non smoker and the applicant must have their own teeth .
I got that job and I still have never smoked and I have my own teeth lolKeith Williams
I used to go from Otago University for holidays,get any dental work done,and John would alwyays wait until I'd left town again,before sending the bill,(to my parents).
Jill Ranger
Hi John fond memories. Lot of water under the bridge. Allan and I still in Timaru.
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
He was my boss in the early days I remember when he advertised for the job you had to have your own teeth and didnt smoke then the skull of a cow was hung on his door with a note and a smoke hanging out of his mouth say "I have my own teeth and don't smoke lol that was the job I got.
John you were an awesome person boss they were the best of times in my life.
Geoff Roberts
1964...Was Ron Taylor still working as dentist then or had he retired....??? Wonder what became of him after returning from Albaina with eldest daughter...???
Dave Lyes
He did my braces for what seems like my entire childhood ? hated the damn things.
Ed Dando
Went to him ?
Marie Grgic
I remember you, I had a filling and injection, my dad had teeth pulled out. We went home to Runanga by bus. Me tears running down my face dad holding hanky on his mouth and not worried at all.
Linda Chandler
Mine too!!
Ivan Murray Wilson
Still sporting your highly skilled work, John. Remember the Barron Knights? "There's a dentist in Birmingham...."
Lynn Tacon
Sorry those two worked for Ian Hamilton, apologies for wrong comment.
Lynn Tacon
Trisha mcinroe and Margaret shand.
Tania Tones Lawrence
Me too, went to school with his son Christopher
Elizabeth Ann Beech
John took a wisdom tooth out for me sometime in the mid '70's
Ria King
Greymouth murder house,, lol ?
Mari Walsh
I was a patient of Johns... fantastic dentist!
Jill Truman
John was my dentist from 1961- 1968
Lesley Oakley
Yes I have sat in that chair. John was my dentist up above Ford Motors.
Jack Tehan
Not quite. He was very good. So we’re his assistants. Last had him with his tools in my gob in Auckland
Kerry Kerr
The murder house ?
Kim Lewis
Very good dentist !!
M An R Murrell
The ol murder house lol ?
Jennie Scott
Cant remember who I went to as a teenager in 70s, only remember the primary school dentist (as would we all - right?)
Steve Best
Those side arms on the Chairs must had alot of Finger and Nail Indentation,
Lynn Turnbull
Merle Mason your on johns list x
Stephen Lucas
John my High School dentist. Jackie miss West Coast.
I have John's book of amazing West Coast photos
Lynne Brown
Worked at Nicholls north Nicholls upstairs first motors alongside John Burford. He would just appear at reception and say got a cancellation I want you and would point to someone in the office. No time to think about it. One time he placed on the counter beside me a big spider he had put into clear denture material !!!! Nice man knew Jackie very well.
Kay Brewer
Would love to know were Jackie is now.
Alan Perrin
My dentist.
Jean Wells
Wonderful dentist...
Barbara Markland
Helen Hamilton
Geoffrey Collis
Boarded with Trish Briggs mum Pat when I was doing my apprentiship at Ford Motors, a top lady.
Chris Verstappen
I used to work for him in the school holidays, developing xrays etc before I went to St Margaret's boarding, and then became a Dental Nurse...??? Chris nee Ferguson
Vern Pattinson
Was she miss west coast one time
Christine Farrell
Was his patient
Ferilyth Brady
Me I was a receptionist, best job ever, loved working for you John, great memories
Pauline Schafer
I went to John when I was 11 and broke my two front teeth at school. He was very good and gave me a half gold tooth on one and a plastic cap on the other. When I was 18 I got them replaced with 2 crowns (caps). When John left town I didn’t know who to go to so I didn’t go to the dentist for 8 years. When I moved to Aussie 20 years ago my flatmate talked me into going to his dentist. I got a few fillings. 12 years ago they quoted me $12,000 to crown 5 teeth. My daughter suggested I go to Thailand and get them done there. So I went over for a month and got all the top ones and bottom double teeth crowned, for $19,000. I’ve been going to a local dentist since then every 6 months and he gives them a good clean and check. Hopefully they’ll last a lot of years yet. John’s wife Clare was a very good leader when I was in the ranger guides when I was about 14, and I remember one Friday night we all went to their home and sat around the lounge listening to Jesus Christ Superstar LP. They were good community people. I was at a market day once in Broadbeach, Gold Coast, and browsing through some books and found John’s book on the West Coast. It’s so nice to have that, lots of nice scenes to remind me of home and to know the author feels special.
Ray Aynsley
One of the best I’ve ever had!!
Suzanne Hall
Huge respect, incredibly hard.intense Job ??
Linda Chandler
Mine too!!
Murray Saunders
Another patient here for my Grey High years.
John was in Albert street.
He told me “you will have your teeth all your life”
Think it was due to the fact we used to have Fluoride added to the drinking water in Wellington.
?
Scott Titheridge
I loved it best when the power went off and they wheeled out the pedal powered drill. No anesthetics for the kids. That ground tooth smell/taste though!
Colin Skates
Major Burford, our Company Commander, Alpha Company (west Coast) TF A good leader was John as well as a great dentist
Bruce Watson
I lived in Reefton and refused to go to the primary school dental nurse when I got to form one. I ended up going to John and it was so painless compared to those bloody dental nurses.
Stephen Lucas
John my High School dentist. Jackie miss West Coast.
I have John's book of amazing West Coast photos
Geoff Roberts
1964...Was Ron Taylor still working as dentist then or had he retired....??? Wonder what became of him after returning from Albaina with eldest daughter...???Steve Best
Those side arms on the Chairs must had alot of Finger and Nail Indentation,
2w
Reply
Christine Adamson
Steve Best Yeah, some of them were mine ??
1w
Reply
Geoff Roberts
1964...Was Ron Taylor still working as dentist then or had he retired....??? Wonder what became of him after returning from Albaina with eldest daughter...???
Paula McGeady
Yes he was still working in 1964 as I was his nurse not sure what happened after returning from Albania.
Jamie King
Paula McGeady Hi Paula, I tried to send you a direct message, but your privacy settings don't allow me to, nor add you as a contact. Would be very interested in speaking with you about Ron (on behalf of a family member). Would be great if you could message me. Thanks!
Geoff Roberts
Mary Moffitt last I knew of Ron was his 2nd marriage an was living down by the Grey river at Taylorville... you can still see the house from main Rd...that was early 60s..
Mary Moffitt
Geoff Roberts He married a beautiful girl whose brother lived in Stillwater.
Geoff Roberts
Paula McGeady Thanks
..must be some his family still in NZ...He was a interesting man.. although I was only a kid when we went to him
Kerry Kerr
The murder house
Lynn Turnbull
Merle Mason your on johns list x
Stephen Lucas
John my High School dentist. Jackie miss West Coast.
I have John's book of amazing West Coast photos
Lynne Brown
Worked at Nicholls north Nicholls upstairs first motors alongside John Burford. He would just appear at reception and say got a cancellation I want you and would point to someone in the office. No time to think about it. One time he placed on the counter beside me a big spider he had put into clear denture material !!!! Nice man knew Jackie very well.
Reply
Alan Perrin
My dentist.
Geoffrey Collis
Boarded with Trish Briggs mum Pat when I was doing my apprentiship at Ford Motors, a top lady.
Chris Verstappen
I used to work for him in the school holidays, developing xrays etc before I went to St Margaret's boarding, and then became a Dental Nurse...??? Chris nee Ferguson
Kay Brewer
Would love to know were Jackie is now.
Megan Smith
Jill Ranger
Vern Pattinson
Was she miss west coast one time
Maria Delury Smith I feel your pain, school dentists certainly did a lot of damage back in the day.
Gavin Davy The murder house. Everyone dreaded going.
Dave Lyes He did my braces as a kid.
Sandra Arnott Good dentist!
Robin Whyte The best greymouth ever had my teeth were not straight so one day asked John bout braces the answer I got was you don't need them looked at him strangely he told me your teeth will straighten by themselves and how right he was saved me all the hassle of having braces many thanks john
Elverie Burford Robin Whyte Thanks Robin. I have finally decided to retire after 28 years in Greymouth then 30 years in Auckland.
But I will always consider myself as a West Coaster.
John
Robin Whyte Born on the coast you will be always a coaster got a few more years before I retire but enjoying life on the coast as long as I have a job here hopefully retire here although things aren't like they use to be now the the gangs have moved in and all the p addicts
Debz Turner Ruth Tinnelly is married and living somewhere in Australia.
Marion E Mundy Where is Jackie mundy
Alex McDougall I remember it well
Lynne Brown I worked Nicholls north Nicholls just across the same floor above ford motors. Remember you both very well. I also remember you putting teeth into a mould and putting them on my counter John burford this was early days. Good days though.
Heather Gaulter A good dentist - a great guy
Heather Newby great dentist.. he restored my trust in dentistry
Pauline Schafer He looked after my teeth from the age of 12 when I broke my two front ones, and was so good. When he left town I didn't know who else I could go to, so I didn't go at all for 8 years! When I moved to Aussie my flatmate talked me into going to his dentist, and I had 8 fillings. Then they started quoting me to get a lot of crowns done as my teeth were fairly rotten and full of fillings. I was quoted $19,000 for 12 teeth, so I actually went to Thailand and got them done over there, and the $19,000 covered all my top teeth being crowned as well as the double teeth on the bottom. I regularly go to the dentist every 6 months to a different dentist on the Gold Coast for a clean and he keeps an eye on me and is very good. My younger daughter works for him as a dental assistant.
Lorraine Greenfield
Lorraine Greenfield He was a marvellous dentist for me. I was in getting teeth done and had to have a porcelain tooth put in the front there was a car accident where my baby son was injured while I was at the dental surgery he was in Grey h ospital they rang John who said he needed to inject more medication to deaden the pain but in actual fact it was so I could cope when I went floated to the hospital. Good man.
Fiona Bisphan A great dentist for me as a kid. Saved my parents thousands for braces by just removing a couple of teeth and they all moved into place. He also did my gold cap as a 13 year old.
Tara Pittams Fixed my teeth as well
Judy Bagnall I was one of the first patients in the new clinic in Albert mall. Had to get a tooth fixed that the dental nurse ruined!
Geoffrey King Oh Jeanette Buchanan well we wont go there!Anne Miller Mcmillan Geoffrey King Sorry Geoffrey . Normally i wouldnt butt in. But that is totally uncalled for.
Jeanette Sands And I loved you Geoffrey
Doreen Wallis I love that he names all his Dental Assistant
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould Fantastic boss will never forget my days working for John at the other clinic by the Railway station
Clarice Hutt We need more dentists, I tried to get an appointment last week as I’d broken a tooth and I couldn’t get one till October!
Kate Hamilton try coast smiles dental spa
Barb Rodway Mine as well Heather,John B was a great dentist.
Sue Vaughan The best dentist ever.Helen McEwen I remember getting my braces done by him
Pauline Schafer My dentist is fully booked for 2-3 months on the Gold Coast. They’re busier than pre-COVID!
Karen Annette Gardiner Hi John,My teeth you did 36 years ago are still great. Thankyou.
Elizabeth Betty Woods Cheryl McMaster did Donna work for John Burford. I can recall an image of her in one of his Coast books!
Karen Perryman got miy teeth from john burford 46- 47 years ago still doing well no problems not like how you have to get one set then a yr later have to get another set waste of money better the way john did them
Kyle Webster Bought a copy of John's book The Coast & the Coaster's in the second hand shop last week-bargain
Karen Lawson He was a much better dentist than the one we had in Hokitika at the same time. Charles Dickens I think his surname was. Man he was rough.
Manage
Jeanette Sands And Elaine back in the 80s on the front desk.
Chris Verstappen I used to work for you sometimes in the school holidays.as all I wanted to be was a school dental nurse which I achieved and was proud to be one ...John believed in me and gave me an insight ...
I also babysat his children which was an honour ..they were so well behaved
So now as time goes on I am now working for the NMDHB as a dental assistant at Wairau Hospital ...so lovely to have had this fantastic journey in Dentistry in my life
Chris Verstappen nee Ferguson ..a West Coaster
Trish Briggs You were a fantastic dentist John and a great boss.
Robin Peterson
Robin Peterson I remember being a patient listening to Gregorian chants
Neroli Liddell He took all my wisdom teeth out
Kathy Duthie i was put of because some one said burford the butcher. not true
Stacey Mather - Clouston Best dentist ever
Jeanette Sands No he wasn't a butcher, but he was way before his time, and not really fully appreciated until he moved to auckland. That is when he really showed his amazing knowledge of head neck and face, not just teeth. John is, and was, a genius in his field. Only we who worked with him would fully appreciate that\
Lexine M Riley
Cheryl Cain.
Margaret river
Elverie Burford
Are you saying Cheryl is living in Margaret River WA?
Lexine M Riley
Elverie Burford yes.
Trish Briggs
You were a fantastic dentist John and a great boss.
Robin Peterson
I remember being a patient listening to Gregorian chants
Neroli Liddell
He took all my wisdom teeth out
Kathy Duthie
i was put of because some one said burford the butcher. not true
Stacey Mather - Clouston
Best dentist ever
Jeanette Sands
No he wasn't a butcher, but he was way before his time, and not really fully appreciated until he moved to auckland. That is when he really showed his amazing knowledge of head neck and face, not just teeth. John is, and was, a genius in his field. Onl… See More
Laura Mills Detlaff
Lexine M Riley
Cheryl Cain.
Margaret river
Elverie Burford
Are you saying Cheryl is living in Margaret River WA?
Lexine M Riley
Elverie Burford yes. Lexine M Riley
Cheryl CallardChristine Rose Ashdown
wow John was my dentist for year until 1969 when i left for Dunedin maiden name Briggs
Elverie Burford
John here again! Well Jeanette, its not often I am lost for words! you are very kind to an old man. Actually you usually only get to hear nice things about yourself if you attend your own funeral. And it's not easy to do that. Take care. JohnJeanette Sands
Thought you should hear it before a funeral. Lol. Come to think of it, I've never seen you lost for words either. But it's the truth as I saw it. All the best to you and elv.
Jeanette Sands
Hey John...Gina here.... I've been meaning to message you. Everything mum said is totally true.... And working in the surgery etc was one the best experiences of my life... And I never really thanked you for everything... So thank you John.... Also, I… See More
Brian Beban
Gidday John. You were a good neighbour too. Cheers.
Pauline Burrows
Plus a good Photographer..and good at Basketball ..
A great Neighbour to us (Bebans).
Hi John...
eanne Burrell Great photo John! Thanks for sharing this. You taught me so much in the time I worked with you, and I’m truly grateful for the knowledge you passed on to me. I’m still in dentistry and enjoying every minute. I wish you the best in retirement… however, I have a feeling I’ll see you at an NZDA conference again soon!!Debz Turner
Ruth Tinnelly lives in Australia.
Pam Englefield-Absolum
Debz Turner taught Ruth.
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2h
Debz Turner
Pam Englefield-Absolum Ruth and I grew up n Boddytown.
Ann-Maree Duncan
John took my second row of tèeth out when I was about 11 years old.
No idea why I had extra
Marilyn Ramsay
I use to go to John Burford
Heather Newby
Marilyn Ramsay me too.. what a relief after the school dental clinic!!
Stephen Lucas
Also great photographer I have his book
Jakie Mundie miss West Coast
Cathie Pengelly
Was he above where Olsons is now
Karen Perryman
Cathie Pengelly when i went to him he was in Albert street new where dr dallas was
Marilyn Ramsay
Cathie Pengelly yes he was
Cathie Pengelly
Marilyn Ramsay I remember being 6. My teacher took me there as I chipped my front tooth at Runanga school
Marilyn Ramsay
Cathie PengellyCathie Pengelly yes I hated going to the dentist every time I had to have something done
Elizabeth Ann Beech
John pulled my first wisdom tooth out. Fortunately I've still got a couple left!!
Vern Pattinson
Thank you for sharing this!
Christine Rose Ashdown
I remember Jacki as well John was my dentist and also pulled out the 2nd row of teeth
Margaret Crowley
went there as well
Ferilyth Brady
Loved working for you all those years ago
Diane Mclellan
My first job after leaving school - just loved it.
Mari Walsh
He was my dentist... was just fantastic
Pauline Schafer
He was my dentist from when I was 12 and broke my two front teeth. Very gentle and a good dentist.
Sheryl Iraia
He's had his hands in my mouth. lol
Dean Mundy
Tony Mundy relation?
Lyn Whittle
I worked with Ian Hamilton , now I’m a Dental Hygienist currently practicing in Christchurch , in the industry for 26 years now
Gail Bradley
Lyn Whittle Ian Hamilton was a great Dentist but also a real nice Guy.
Marie Grgic
I have to say in my life he was the only person i hated to see.
Geoffrey King
Oh I think he married with Jeannette Buchanan
Yvonne Lawson
My dentist too. Remember Jackie too
Paula Bruce
Is that really you John? Looks a Lot like Spock actually
Kay Brewer
Does any one know what happened to Jackie
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Ferilyth Brady and I worked for John he was a good boss I worked at Railway station one and Feriylth at the other good times
Lyn Whittle
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould I worked with the beautiful Ferylith up until she retired. She’s a gem
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Lyn Whittle my best friend still
Shazza Ian
Stacia your aunty O
Sharon Burrell
Have you seen this Leanne Burrell and you're still in the industry
Trish Briggs
Yes I saw it this morning. Great boss
Kathryn Ward
Merle Mason, this was a few years ago.
Alison Newland
I was in the chair when the alarm sounded for the Strongman Mine disaster.
Helen Burns
Great dentist !!
Jeanne McEwen
Brilliant dentist
Geoff Roberts
As a West coast dentist....did you ever know of a Ron Taylor....our family dentist in 50s an 60s....He used to come shooting on our Maruia farm in those days...
Jill Wilson
A wonderful dentist. I hope he is happy and living a good life in Auckland
Ingrid Ferguson
He married Jeanette Garderner from Hokitika, she was his dental assistist. Mayby they are still together.
Helen Nolan
Ingrid Ferguson no they’re not
Ingrid Ferguson
His first wife Clare had to have total bed rest during her pregnacey for all of their children. in the early days.
Anne Hines
I remember his book of coast pics……
Helen O'Dea
Anne Hines I’m in that book along with others from Stillwater School
Helen Nolan
Brilliant dentist!! Ruth Tinnelly was receptionist when I was going there … way back in the 80’s
Wayne Diedrichs
Great dentist still wearing the same false teeth forty years later after getting all my teeth pulled out in the eighty’s
Chris Verstappen
I used to work for John during school holidays ...and babysat their beautiful children...
I always wanted to be a school dental nurse which I achieved... finally for the last 7 years I worked for NMDHB as a dental assistant and have just retired gracefully...a fantastic personal journey
Maiden name Ferguson....John was the best Dentist
Lexine M Riley
Cheryl Callard Margaret river
Cheryl Callard
I was John chaiside assistant for many years (Cheryl Riley/Cain)with Alaine at Reception.. remember us guys
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Cheryl Callard I do
Do you mean Alayn McRoberts
Ivan Murray Wilson
Can't recall any others John but I'm still "partially" happy!
Ivan Murray Wilson
Memories of The Baron Knights song - you'll recall the one.
Robert John Mallinson
Dont know about this lot , but remember the Travelling dentist which came to the Haast school , WITH a Treadle drill set up in 64 , got bogged in my tooth = lotsa pulling to get it out = Avoided dentists to this day
Heather Newby
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Robert John Mallinson i remember the pedal treadle drill too.. got bogged in my tooth too. i avoid dentists too.
Lesley Thomas
Reg can remember him coming to Jaycees and giving a talk on his travels to Alaska
Geoffrey King
Lesley Thomas Was Bob Jamieson the President then?
Neroli Liddell
Took all my wisdom teeth out
Geoffrey King
Neroli Liddell so is that the problem
Geoffrey King
Neroli Liddell sorry just my sense of humour.
Christopher Morresey
I still have fillings that John put in 60 years ago
Jane Clayton
John Burford you used a fluoride treatment on my teeth in the 70s and I still have no fillings!
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Kerry Keating
Jane Clayton Me too Jane. No fillings for a little over 50 years. O th taken back then. Gouged the centre of my teeth opening bottles of beer with them.
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
Who remembers the day some one put a cow skull on the door in Albert street with a cigarette hanging from it mouth and no teeth
It had a sign on it saying saying I have my own teeth and I don’t smoke .
This was because the job add asked fir a non smoker and the applicant must have their own teeth .
I got that job and I still have never smoked and I have my own teeth lolKeith Williams
I used to go from Otago University for holidays,get any dental work done,and John would alwyays wait until I'd left town again,before sending the bill,(to my parents).
Jill Ranger
Hi John fond memories. Lot of water under the bridge. Allan and I still in Timaru.
Debora Tracey Pedersen-Gould
He was my boss in the early days I remember when he advertised for the job you had to have your own teeth and didnt smoke then the skull of a cow was hung on his door with a note and a smoke hanging out of his mouth say "I have my own teeth and don't smoke lol that was the job I got.
John you were an awesome person boss they were the best of times in my life.
Geoff Roberts
1964...Was Ron Taylor still working as dentist then or had he retired....??? Wonder what became of him after returning from Albaina with eldest daughter...???
Dave Lyes
He did my braces for what seems like my entire childhood ? hated the damn things.
Ed Dando
Went to him ?
Marie Grgic
I remember you, I had a filling and injection, my dad had teeth pulled out. We went home to Runanga by bus. Me tears running down my face dad holding hanky on his mouth and not worried at all.
Linda Chandler
Mine too!!
Ivan Murray Wilson
Still sporting your highly skilled work, John. Remember the Barron Knights? "There's a dentist in Birmingham...."
Lynn Tacon
Sorry those two worked for Ian Hamilton, apologies for wrong comment.
Lynn Tacon
Trisha mcinroe and Margaret shand.
Tania Tones Lawrence
Me too, went to school with his son Christopher
Elizabeth Ann Beech
John took a wisdom tooth out for me sometime in the mid '70's
Ria King
Greymouth murder house,, lol ?
Mari Walsh
I was a patient of Johns... fantastic dentist!
Jill Truman
John was my dentist from 1961- 1968
Lesley Oakley
Yes I have sat in that chair. John was my dentist up above Ford Motors.
Jack Tehan
Not quite. He was very good. So we’re his assistants. Last had him with his tools in my gob in Auckland
Kerry Kerr
The murder house ?
Kim Lewis
Very good dentist !!
M An R Murrell
The ol murder house lol ?
Jennie Scott
Cant remember who I went to as a teenager in 70s, only remember the primary school dentist (as would we all - right?)
Steve Best
Those side arms on the Chairs must had alot of Finger and Nail Indentation,
Lynn Turnbull
Merle Mason your on johns list x
Stephen Lucas
John my High School dentist. Jackie miss West Coast.
I have John's book of amazing West Coast photos
Lynne Brown
Worked at Nicholls north Nicholls upstairs first motors alongside John Burford. He would just appear at reception and say got a cancellation I want you and would point to someone in the office. No time to think about it. One time he placed on the counter beside me a big spider he had put into clear denture material !!!! Nice man knew Jackie very well.
Kay Brewer
Would love to know were Jackie is now.
Alan Perrin
My dentist.
Jean Wells
Wonderful dentist...
Barbara Markland
Helen Hamilton
Geoffrey Collis
Boarded with Trish Briggs mum Pat when I was doing my apprentiship at Ford Motors, a top lady.
Chris Verstappen
I used to work for him in the school holidays, developing xrays etc before I went to St Margaret's boarding, and then became a Dental Nurse...??? Chris nee Ferguson
Vern Pattinson
Was she miss west coast one time
Christine Farrell
Was his patient
Ferilyth Brady
Me I was a receptionist, best job ever, loved working for you John, great memories
Pauline Schafer
I went to John when I was 11 and broke my two front teeth at school. He was very good and gave me a half gold tooth on one and a plastic cap on the other. When I was 18 I got them replaced with 2 crowns (caps). When John left town I didn’t know who to go to so I didn’t go to the dentist for 8 years. When I moved to Aussie 20 years ago my flatmate talked me into going to his dentist. I got a few fillings. 12 years ago they quoted me $12,000 to crown 5 teeth. My daughter suggested I go to Thailand and get them done there. So I went over for a month and got all the top ones and bottom double teeth crowned, for $19,000. I’ve been going to a local dentist since then every 6 months and he gives them a good clean and check. Hopefully they’ll last a lot of years yet. John’s wife Clare was a very good leader when I was in the ranger guides when I was about 14, and I remember one Friday night we all went to their home and sat around the lounge listening to Jesus Christ Superstar LP. They were good community people. I was at a market day once in Broadbeach, Gold Coast, and browsing through some books and found John’s book on the West Coast. It’s so nice to have that, lots of nice scenes to remind me of home and to know the author feels special.
Ray Aynsley
One of the best I’ve ever had!!
Suzanne Hall
Huge respect, incredibly hard.intense Job ??
Linda Chandler
Mine too!!
Murray Saunders
Another patient here for my Grey High years.
John was in Albert street.
He told me “you will have your teeth all your life”
Think it was due to the fact we used to have Fluoride added to the drinking water in Wellington.
?
Scott Titheridge
I loved it best when the power went off and they wheeled out the pedal powered drill. No anesthetics for the kids. That ground tooth smell/taste though!
Colin Skates
Major Burford, our Company Commander, Alpha Company (west Coast) TF A good leader was John as well as a great dentist
Bruce Watson
I lived in Reefton and refused to go to the primary school dental nurse when I got to form one. I ended up going to John and it was so painless compared to those bloody dental nurses.
Stephen Lucas
John my High School dentist. Jackie miss West Coast.
I have John's book of amazing West Coast photos
Geoff Roberts
1964...Was Ron Taylor still working as dentist then or had he retired....??? Wonder what became of him after returning from Albaina with eldest daughter...???Steve Best
Those side arms on the Chairs must had alot of Finger and Nail Indentation,
2w
Reply
Christine Adamson
Steve Best Yeah, some of them were mine ??
1w
Reply
Geoff Roberts
1964...Was Ron Taylor still working as dentist then or had he retired....??? Wonder what became of him after returning from Albaina with eldest daughter...???
Paula McGeady
Yes he was still working in 1964 as I was his nurse not sure what happened after returning from Albania.
Jamie King
Paula McGeady Hi Paula, I tried to send you a direct message, but your privacy settings don't allow me to, nor add you as a contact. Would be very interested in speaking with you about Ron (on behalf of a family member). Would be great if you could message me. Thanks!
Geoff Roberts
Mary Moffitt last I knew of Ron was his 2nd marriage an was living down by the Grey river at Taylorville... you can still see the house from main Rd...that was early 60s..
Mary Moffitt
Geoff Roberts He married a beautiful girl whose brother lived in Stillwater.
Geoff Roberts
Paula McGeady Thanks
..must be some his family still in NZ...He was a interesting man.. although I was only a kid when we went to him
Kerry Kerr
The murder house
Lynn Turnbull
Merle Mason your on johns list x
Stephen Lucas
John my High School dentist. Jackie miss West Coast.
I have John's book of amazing West Coast photos
Lynne Brown
Worked at Nicholls north Nicholls upstairs first motors alongside John Burford. He would just appear at reception and say got a cancellation I want you and would point to someone in the office. No time to think about it. One time he placed on the counter beside me a big spider he had put into clear denture material !!!! Nice man knew Jackie very well.
Reply
Alan Perrin
My dentist.
Geoffrey Collis
Boarded with Trish Briggs mum Pat when I was doing my apprentiship at Ford Motors, a top lady.
Chris Verstappen
I used to work for him in the school holidays, developing xrays etc before I went to St Margaret's boarding, and then became a Dental Nurse...??? Chris nee Ferguson
Kay Brewer
Would love to know were Jackie is now.
Megan Smith
Jill Ranger
Vern Pattinson
Was she miss west coast one time
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West Coast New Zealand History (25th Nov 2025). Dentist John Burford, and Dental Assistant Jackie Mundy.1964.. In Website West Coast New Zealand History. Retrieved 14th Apr 2026 08:47, from https://westcoast.recollect.co.nz/nodes/view/28172