Mrs Black (83) takes pride in the daily ritual, and Mr Black (85) says, "Having a good cook is one of the secrets to a long and happy marriage."
But last night, the couple departed from their usual daily routine by having takeaways to celebrate their diamond wedding anniversary.
"I said I'd cook tea, but my daughter said no. So we're going to have takeaways for tea to celebrate," she said with a chuckle.
"We hardly ever have takeaways, so we don't have a favourite. We'll just wait and see what family brings."
Not having to cook for family meant Mrs Black (formerly Duncan) could spend much of the day with her husband, reminiscing and sorting through a large pile of cards from the Queen, the Prime Minister, the Governor-General, and family and friends - all wishing them a happy 60th wedding anniversary.
Ernie, a retired furniture maker, and Gwen, who had worked at DIC, Arthur Barnett and the Inland Revenue Department, met at the Waitati dances in the late 1940s and built up a friendship.
But it was about five years before the couple went on their first date together.
In 1951, they were married at Mornington Presbyterian Church in Dunedin, and three children followed soon after.
During the past week, they have had the opportunity to celebrate their diamond milestone with their children, five grandchildren and a great-grandchild.
Both agreed having an "easy-going nature", and "giving and taking" were important for a long friendship and marriage.
The couple said they had enjoyed each other's company, particularly on their annual camping trips.
However, age had caught up with them, and they now preferred the comforts of holidays in hotels or motels, Mr Black said.
Looking back over the past six decades, both were surprised at how quickly the time had passed.
"Sixty years - they've gone very quick. It doesn't seem like 60 years," Mrs Black said.
"They've gone too quick," Mr Black said.
