Neil Boserio is well-known to those who’ve lived in the Whakatipu for a while.
Neil, a schizophrenic, moved here with sister, Karen, also known as Boz, 43 years ago when there were three pubs — including Eichardt’s, which he frequented — and a population of about 3000.
She recalls his standard greeting, "can I have $2 and a ciggie", being an absolute winner, with a 100% success rate.
"The ‘got a ciggie?’ approach with passing tourists usually scored him gobsmacked expressions and, more importantly to him, the whole packet."
Karen, 70, says her brother started showing signs of schizophrenia when he was in his late teens — as a result, he’s endured unimaginable mental health challenges.
She brought him with her to Queenstown from Methven, and believes that decision’s the primary reason he’s reached his milestone birthday.
"Many schizophrenics don’t make it to middle age," she says.
"However, when we were a smaller community, and local Queenstowners wrapped their care ... around Neil, it made all the difference to his sense of self-worth and belonging."
For many years Neil did odd jobs around town, in return for a meal and "maybe a beer", for example, stacking firewood at Chico’s.
"People got who he was — he’s a gentle soul, he wouldn’t hurt anybody, he was easy to like, so people were really good to him."
However, he’s becoming more reclusive as he ages, and while he is well-supported by an array of social service agencies in the resort, Karen’s looking for stories about Neil, or memories of him, to compile into a booklet for him.
"It’s a positive reminder for Neil that he belongs and he’s unique."
The booklet’s front cover will have a painting of him, created by local artist Mitch Watchorn, and she’s hoping it’ll "blow his socks off" when he realises the impact he’s had on people.
Anyone with a story or memory can email karenboserio@gmail.com or contact her via Facebook.
