Johnny and Peter

In the Wellington-recorded podcast "Johnny and Peter," listeners are taken through the intimate story of Johnny Croskery and Peter Kooiman's relationship, spanning from their first meeting in the late 1950s to life's experiences throughout various decades until the 1990s. The conversation reveals the progression of their bond, the challenges they faced, and the joy that their shared life brought them. The couple reflects on their initial encounter, where Johnny made the bold move to approach Peter under the pretense of checking the window display of the DIC, where Johnny was employed as a window dresser. Peter, who worked at the Midland Hotel, initially did not notice Johnny on their first passing.

They share anecdotes about their life together, such as purchasing their first house and how they navigated others' perceptions of their relationship and appearance. The couple never concealed themselves, adopting an attitude of openness about who they were, which, over time, led their neighbors to grow accustomed to them. They remark on the changing landscape of their community, noting an increase in gay residents over their 37-year residence.

Deeply fond of pets, the couple tells tales of their Maltese dogs, starting with Mercy who had a back leg deformity but lived for 14 years. They mention inheriting more dogs from a friend, totaling seven pets. This multi-dog household painted a vivid picture of the couple's lives, filled with humor, compassion, and devotion. They humorously recount how the presence of their dogs deterred religious visitors, adding a touch of lightheartedness to their daily routine.

Johnny and Peter also ponder the realities of aging, considering the upkeep of their home and the serenity they found in a quieter lifestyle as they grew older. They reflect on the evolution of their social lives, comparing the desperation to go out on weekends in their youth to a more relaxed, stay-at-home preference with good books and music in later years.

As the couple reminisces, they express their enduring appreciation and love for each other. They touch on their distinct personalities and how they've influenced one another over time. Johnny describes Peter as obliging and sweet-natured, while Peter speaks of Johnny's captivating difference and the joy they find in one another's company.

This podcast recording not only captures their individual stories but also serves as an intimate oral history of a same-sex couple living openly in Aotearoa New Zealand through the latter half of the 20th century. Their dialogue navigates personal experiences against the backdrop of a societal evolution in attitudes toward the LGBTQ+ community.

The podcast concludes with heartfelt acknowledgments of mutual respect and affection, as Peter's feelings about initially being fascinated by Johnny's uniqueness evolve into a deeper appreciation for their life together. The account of Johnny and Peter's shared journey ends with Peter’s realization of the depth of their connection and the value of their partnership.

This summary is created using Generative AI. Although it is based on the recording's transcription, it may contain errors or omissions. Click here to learn more about how this summary was created.

Johnny Croskery Peter Kooiman

1960s, 1990s, aotearoa new zealand, drag, gay, johnny croskery, peter kooiman, programme, relationships, transgender, wellington

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