In this interview, Lois recalls her childhood in Tuturau, Dunedin, and later Tapanui during and after the Second World War. She describes family life, schooling, petrol rationing, and community activities, including correspondence schooling, walking long distances to school, and participation in singing and elocution lessons. After attending Gore High School, she worked in a lawyer’s office before training as a teacher in Dunedin. Thomson reflects on her recollections of Tapanui, including local businesses, dances, and strong community connections.