In memory of a pioneer
Horowhenua flower farmer G rowing lilies was what William Doreen wanted to do from a young age. From the time he studied horticulture at Massey Agricultural College as the 1940s drew to a close, William, known as Bill, was focused on the opportunities afforded by the striking yet delicate bloom. At the time Bill graduated with his horticulture diploma, New Zealand gardeners could only get two varieties of Lily -Christmas and Easter, so he bought some bulbs from his teacher and mentor Dr John Yeates, who he had also worked for during his study years. Bill bought four hectares of land on Fairfield Rd in Levin, met and married his wife Carol in 1953, then went on to become largest flower wholesaler and exporter of lilies in the country, through their business Lilies International. His most famous lily hybrid is called Casa Blanca, and is still widely available. The science behind the flowers became a big part of the business, and later, when the couple’s four children grew up to join their parents’ business, they set up a tissue culture lab, as well as giant freezers and cool stores, glasshouses and a state-of-the-art pack-house.
Bill and Carol retired from their business in 2002 and Bill decided to share his wealth of knowledge through book writing. His renowned book Lily Species throughout the World was launched in Christchurch in 2009, with the author saying his motivation had been not wanting the knowledge gained throughout 60 years of growing lilies to be lost. Bill had become a world-renowned authority on flower-growing and was internationally recognised for his
contribution to lily breeding, writing and lecturing globally. He was recognised locally for his achievements too and as having been a major employer in Levin during his time in business at Fairfield Rd. In 1997, he was named New Zealand Floriculturalist of the Year. Bill Doreen passed away in July 2018, but will always be fondly remembered for his contributions to both his community and the wider horticultural world.
Buying or Selling Property? Talk to me first!
Murray Doreen is extremely passionate about Horowhenua being Levin born and raised. With a Diploma in Horticulture, Murray went on to develop a globally successful floriculture business, Flowercorp Ltd. Employing hundreds of local Levin people, he recieved the 1996 Electra Business and Exporter of the Year award. Murray transferred his business competence and extensive knowledge of Horowhenua to a career in Real Estate 14 years ago. Since that time he has achieved sales of more than $100 million in property value in Horowhenua. Experience counts a lot when you are buying or selling property. Engage Murray Doreen and be confident you are working with a truly focussed professional.
Murray Doreen
Residential/Lifestyle/ Commercial Sales Consultant M 027 490 4773 P 06 366 0662 E murrayd@pb.co.nz
pb.co.nz Property Brokers Ltd Licensed REAA 2008
www.horowhenuachronicle.co.nz
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