Nelson MP Dr Nick Smith welcomed the formal knighting of Sir Peter Talley in a ceremony at Government House in Wellington on Friday saying the region and nation needs to celebrate its successful entrepreneurs.
“The Talleys are an inspirational family that started out in the 1930s as immigrants from Yugoslavia with little. From a humble fish shop in Motueka they have grown a global food business employing over 5000 people and exporting to over 50 countries.
“It is easy for politicians and community leaders to talk about the importance of investment, jobs and exports, but it takes entrepreneurs like Sir Peter Talley to actually do it,” Nick says.
“The Nelson region has been a huge beneficiary of Talley’s growth and success. The reason there are 300 jobs in Motueka at the Talleys plant is not that the town is the best strategic location for processing fish, but it because it is home to the family.
“Today’s Knighthood also recognises the hundreds of charities, sports and individuals that the Talley family has quietly supported behind the scenes.
“It is incredible that a small town like Motueka has produced such nationally successful business people. The message to young New Zealanders from Sir Peter’s Knighthood is that global business success is possible from the smallest of towns and the humblest of beginnings.”
