by Roger Childs

Alan Tristram died on Saturday 3 May and the Kapiti Coast has lost a delightful, quirky and highly talented identity. My wife Pam and I knew Alan and his gentle, hospitable wife Helen from 2012. They were well known in the district as cyclists who would be out in all weathers with Alan leading and Helen gamely following as fast as she could. They were on real cycles, none of this electric bike nonsense!

The two of them ran the Greenhouse Bookshop in Paraparaumu Beach for many years and you could always find quality publications there. Paraparaumu College Librarians used to shop there regularly to obtain good books for the library.

After their book-selling years, Alan started the Kapiti Independent News e-zine, affectionately known as KIN. It was a dedicated watchdog of KCDC and the Permanent Staff, Mayor and Councillors were a frequent source of criticism. However, it covered a wide range of topics – overseas news, conservation, history, cultural events, book reviews, as well as Kapiti community issues and events.

I first submitted an article to Alan on Andy Murray winning his first grand slam in 2012, and gradually rose to become a regular contributor and eventually Associate Editor. We didn’t always agree, however, Alan was a good writer and editor, and was intensely interested in what his friends were doing. This online connection led to a close friendship with the Tristrams and we had many meals at each other’s homes and local cafés. 

Alan was widely known in the Kapiti area for his interest in community affairs, and for his articles in KIN on a wide range of issues. He was also a volunteer at Seven Oaks retirement village. He will be sorely missed. 

The funeral is at Kapiti Coast Funeral Home Chapel, 9-11 Hinemoa Street, Paraparaumu on Friday, 9 May at 10.00 am.