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Ron Blackman joined the New Zealand National Maritime Museum as a member in 1993, when it opened.
But his involvement stems from before that. Ron helped restore the museum's heritage sailing vessels, particularly the Ted Ashby, and served as the scow's master for three years.
Today's Unsung Hero nominee learned his boat-building skills during a career in the Merchant Navy, where he served as mate on cargo ships. When he came ashore, in 1957, he worked in the building trade.
Ron has used his knowledge to train fellow crew members on how to sail old boats, and written training manuals. Teamwork is the key, reckons Ron, and he has helped create a team-building programme for the museum. The Spirit of Adventure Trust has also been a beneficiary of Ron's expertise.
He has volunteered as a crew member on more than 30 10-day sail-training voyages, and spent many weekends fundraising for the trust. When his daughter Louise was diagnosed with breast cancer, he put his energies towards raising money for cancer research by organising an annual mid-winter ocean dip.
Getting the money is easy enough, he says. "You only have to mention breast cancer, and everyone dips into their pocket."
Ron and his mates have raised about $18,000 in three years.
"I have lots of friends, and they actually do the organising," he admits.
"I'm just the figurehead." Not bad for a bloke of 78. "I had a birthday a few days ago. I've only got another 22 years before I get my telegram from Camilla." The volunteer work will continue, especially with younger folk. "I just like seeing people grow."
