| 5 REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT McPhail Sports As Andrew says, “We’re a boating family, and all of a sudden we find out we used to make boats. We really appreciate this piece of nostalgic history Gavin held on to and that will be on display in the new premises. Somebody is looking down on us.” The McPhail family’s ability over generations to combine work and play into a way of life stretches beyond sport to the arts. Andrew’s equally proud of the legacy left by his uncle Neil, rated as the fifth-greatest All Black coach in history from 1961-1965 (85% winning rate), as he is of another uncle, wellknown actor and comedian, David McPhail, who was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal and honoured as an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for his contribution to the arts and to the wider community. Their photos and achievements will sit alongside other family memorabilia in the new shop-come-museum where Andrew is looking forward to getting to know his customers just as his grandfather used to do. McPhail & Fisher will offer a glimpse of what one Canterbury family striving for excellence can achieve over four generations: from a band of three brothers, Neil, Clem, and John, who excelled on the rugby field and made a name for themselves in World War Two, through its multi-faceted retail history, into what good-quality retail can look like today designed with customer experience in mind. The McPhail family’s re-entry into Christchurch’s outdoor activities retail landscape starts with an opening factory sale to launch their latest venture and find out firstThe McPhail family legacy encompasses business, sport and the arts. Above, left Clem & Neil (NJ) McPhail, right David; below, Neil, coach on the 1967 All Blacks British Isles tour. Top, Andrew McPhail with an original Seawolf boat. McPhail & Fisher made the signature range of boats in 1963 in collaboration with Christchurch boat manufacturer Cresta Craft. hand what their customers want. With their part-museum, part-retail operation, and fully dedicated to the customer experience, the McPhail family looks forward to meeting you in their new premises at 1 Birmingham Drive.
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