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George Weigel — photography business based in New Regent Street, Christchurch
William George Weigel was a news and studio photographer for over 56 years, and died in Christchurch at the age of 82 in 1980. He began his career as a chauffeur, and by the time he was 26, a boyhood interest in photography had developed into a professional contract with the Freelance. His photographs also appeared in the Lyttelton Times although he continued working for both publications until they closed. In 1927, he covered the visit of the Duchess of York, who would become the Queen Mother, and since then he had photographed every Royal tour. On the Queen Mother's visit to New Zealand in 1958, Mr Weigel was granted an audience and the first visit was recalled. In 1936, he had left full-time news photography, and opened a studio in New Regent Street. He was one of the first photographers in Christchurch to specialise in outdoor wedding shots. The business was taken over by his son George Henry Weigel (also known as George) who ultimately passed away on November 19th, 2017. The studio was one of the first shops in the street, and the new businesses made use of Mr Weigel's craft, inviting him to place his work in their windows to drum up interest and trade.
Mr Weigel was noted for his aerial photography and was one of the Canterbury Aero Club's early members, flying frequently by himself while wielding a camera. He covered the tour of Kingsford-Smith in 1928, and he was also a keen jet-boater. Mr Weigel's other main interest was trotting — he had photographed every New Zealand Trotting Cup, for the last 60 years. At the end of 1979, he was presented with an award from the Standard Breeders’ Association for his picture of Lord Module. In hospital shortly before his death in 1980, he expressed concern that he would miss that year's Cup. Mr Weigel never officially retired, he merely eased off over the last few years, and was still taking photographs until close to his death. |
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