As a civil engineer for the Ministry of Works, Reginald Ernest Hermans was involved with many significant projects, including overseeing the completion of the Kaimai tunnel.

Reg began his career in 1936 as a drafting cadet. The following year he transferred to the Public Works Department where he was appointed to an engineering cadetship.

During World War II he served with the New Zealand Engineers, 6 Field Company. He attained the rank of Captain and was awarded the Military Cross.

After the war he studied at Canterbury University College, and in 1947 was appointed Engineer on the Mangakino hydro-electric project. He was promoted to Senior Engineer there in 1953 and Construction Engineer in 1960.

He became Resident Engineer, Whanganui, in 1962; District Civil Engineer, Hamilton in 1965 and District Commissioner of Works in Hamilton, 1968-1978.

Reg served as a member of the Planning Tribunal (later the Environment Court) between 1978-1986.

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This interview is held at the Alexander Turnbull Library. Contact the library for more information.

Date of Interview: 2009