In the 1960s, a Dutch migrant called Otto Groen fought and won a battle that was to have far-reaching effects on the way we live.
Groen was a restaurateur who could not abide the puritanical liquor licensing laws of the 1950s which prevented people from having wine with their meals.
It took him seven years to break down the resistance but eventually he succeeded and just before Christmas in 1961, diners were for the first time able legally to have a glass of wine with lunch or dinner at Groen's restaurant, The Gourmet in Shortland St.
Groen's name has long since been forgotten by most people but the city he made home has become an oasis of fine dining and great wine thanks partly to his determination.
In honour of his achievement he is our New Zealander of the Year for 1961.
Auckland gourmets should not forget to raise a glass to Otto Groen, the man who did so much to make their city what it is today.
