Glenda.

Seven generations of Ussher descendants have lived in Piha since 1861. Glenda has been here for 45 of those years.

Glenda.

Glenda Northey is one of Piha's longest-standing residents — 45 years in the village, and a family lineage that stretches back seven generations to 1861. She has served as the village's librarian for over 35 years, is a Justice of the Peace, writes local history through Piha Press, and creates mosaics that she sells at the village market. We asked her five questions.

How long have you lived in Piha, and what first brought you here?

I've lived in Piha for about 45 years. Unlike many people, I wasn't first drawn here by the scenery or the surf — I was drawn here by a local man. When we started our family, we made Piha our home, and apart from a few brief periods away, mainly in Kenya, we've been here ever since.

Over the years, this place and its people have become a big part of who I am. Our family have been here since 1861, making seven generations of Ussher descendants to have lived here.

What do you do for work (or how do you spend your days)?

These days I serve as a Justice of the Peace, helping people with document certification, witnessing signatures, statutory declarations, and other official paperwork. It's a small way of giving back, and I enjoy being able to help people with tasks that are often important to them. I also volunteer at West Auckland Hospice.

I was the librarian at the Piha Library for over 35 years. I also write local books and create colourful mosaics which I sell at the local market. I have greatly enjoyed working on the Piha News over the years I have been here and meeting lots of locals in my column on the Good Folks of Piha.

What’s something about Piha that surprises people once they actually spend time here?

Many people see Piha as a beautiful beach destination, but those who spend time here soon discover it's much more than that. It's a genuine community. People look out for one another, stop for a chat, and are quick to lend a hand when needed. That sense of connection and belonging is something I think surprises many visitors.

What’s your favourite thing to do in Piha?

One of my favourite things is simply sitting quietly and taking in the sounds of the bird life. There is something grounding about being still and feeling the presence of those who have gone before us. Walking the beach or the tracks is also where I often go to clear my mind and sort through my thoughts.

What do you love most about living here?

It's hard to separate the place from the people. Piha's natural beauty is extraordinary, but what has kept me here for so many years is the community. There is a shared respect for this place and a genuine care for one another. For me, that combination of landscape, history, and community spirit is what makes Piha feel like home.

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Glenda serves as a Justice of the Peace in Piha, runs Piha Press and Piha Mosaics, and was the village librarian for over 35 years.