80yo Lorna King celebrates 46 years at New World

Lorna King (Newshub.)
Lorna King (Newshub.)

Lorna King, 80, has seen a lot of change at New World in Auckland's Green Bay.

She's been there since the day it opened way back in 1970, when she started out as a meat-packer.

"The meat was a lot cheaper - eye fillet steak was about $8.99 a kilo.  You could get mince for $1.99 and a whole side of lamb for about three or four dollars," she says.

Ms King, who looks much younger than 80, says her secret to staying young is working.

"It's working with the younger ones.  It's a different challenge. There's always something happening - no two days are the same."

She is now in charge of the bread and confectionery department but says she stays away from the sweets.

"It's not good for my figure," she says.

New World Green Bay owner/operator Clive Webber says it's a privilege having Ms King working for him.

"If we could clone her we'd clone her.  She's the most positive person you'll ever meet and she's an absolute pleasure to have in the store.  I always say don't ever tell me you're going to retire because the answer is no.  You're going to work forever."

He doesn't have to worry. Ms King has no retirement plans.

"They all know I won't retire - not until I'm carried out!"

Newshub.