Ron Ikin says he was never one for impulsive moves, but when a beautiful woman caught his eye following a chance glance across the street, he couldn't help himself.
The 94-year-old said he was just 19 when he first saw Alice Ikin (nee Reeves).
He was an apprentice plasterer working in Crawford St, Dunedin, and she was a shorthand typist working in a building across the road.
''I looked up and she was on the top storey making a cup of tea.
''After work, I waited outside with my bicycle for her to finish work.
''I said: 'Gidday, how are you,' and then I walked her home.''
Little did he know she lived in Mornington, which was ''a really long way to walk''.
Fortunately, it gave them a long time to talk and they got to know each other quite well, he said.
The couple started dating, and just when it looked like they would get engaged, World War 2 broke out and he was shipped to Egypt.
''I spent two years in the Middle East before I got wounded. I was invalided home.''
His injuries were a blessing in disguise because he was reunited with Alice, and the two were married soon after.
Yesterday, the couple were celebrating their 70th wedding anniversary at their South Dunedin home, by reminiscing about days gone by.
''We cherish the memories of the time we have spent together over the years - especially our camping trips around the country,'' he said.
''We've been pretty happy together.''
Both agreed the success of their 70-year marriage had been because of their unconditional acceptance of each other.
''Give and take is the secret.''
Mr and Mrs Ikin's lounge was filled with flowers and cards, including cards from the Queen and Prime Minister John Key offering their congratulations.
Rather than have a large party to mark the milestone yesterday, they planned to wait until January next year when their four children and extended family from around the world were in Dunedin to celebrate Mrs Ikin's 94th birthday.
''We'll do it all at the same time,'' Mr Ikin said.
