A self-confessed McDonald's nut, Alan Garthwaite has been collecting merchandise from the restaurant for more than 23 years, opening the "McEttrick Museum" at his Ettrick house on December 1 last year.
With hundreds of thousands of items on display, Mr Garthwaite fielded call after call from people wanting to see his collection.
"I think the locals were hoping it would put Ettrick on the map. But, in the end, I decided to pursue my dream, so I went to McDonald's in Dunedin and asked if they had any jobs."
It turned out the Dunedin George St branch was hiring, and in February the former orchard worker donned his first McDonald's uniform as an official employee.
His job is to look after customers, general cleaning duties and his favourite part of the job - handing out toys.
"I love seeing the expression on a kid's face when I give them a toy. They are budding collectors in the making. But, if a kid is mad enough to leave a toy behind from their Happy Meal, I will take it home," he said.
Mr Garthwaite would like to see his growing collection displayed in Dunedin so people could view his toys, clothing, burger boxes, jewellery and other items from the McDonald's merchandise menu.
The collection is valued at more than $100,000 and is believed to be the largest of its type in New Zealand, he said.
Needing 100sq m of space to house his collection, Mr Garthwaite is appealing for someone to come to his aid so he can open a museum in the city.
"My aim is to open a museum, charge a small entry fee and give the proceeds to Ronald McDonald House Charities."
Eventually, he would like to run the museum, but he is eying other management opportunities.
"My bosses have seen my potential and they have offered me a trainee management position, so it looks like I will be here for life."
Enjoying the perks of the job, such as sampling menu items for half price - not to mention the free toys - Mr Garthwaite hasn't stop saying the company's latest jingle since he started work.
"I am lovin' it", he said
