Developing an abiding love for the natural and life sciences during two years of medical intermediate studies at Otago University in 1961 and 1962, Peter Peryer moved back to Auckland and finished his bachelor’s degree majoring in English and Education. His diploma from North Shore Teachers’ College prepared him for a career as teacher in primary schools, and in 1972 he completed a Master of Arts in Education while teaching. He also held a position lecturing in English at Auckland Teachers’ College for a short time. Acquiring his first camera in 1973 he learned how to develop prints through the Camera Club at Otahuhu Intermediate where he was relieving, and set up a darkroom in his Campbell’s Bay home. In January of 1974, he was accepted for a photographic workshop held at Elam School of Fine Arts with John B. Turner, Tom Hutchins and Larence Shustak. This was to be a turning point, and at age 34, Peter Peryer finally left the starting blocks as a photographer. Forty years later, he has produced a wealth of memorable imagery.
