Elfleda was at college from 1979-1983 and a member of Green House. She was involved in netball, volleyball and athletics.

Amongst her most memorable moments was the thrill of developing her own photographs for her photography class.

Loyal to the end, she refuses to name friends she got into trouble with!

Her favourite teachers were Mr Lynn, Mr Faith and typing teacher Norma Tait, who helped her get her first job.

After school, Elfleda moved to Wellington and was a secretary in a travel agency. She became a travel consultant and account manager. She now manages Whitcoulls in Ashburton.

She says she would take studying more seriously if she could go back in time.

Elfleda and her husband Pat have two children, Josh and Shanaia, who have also attended college.