It was a vast complex of buildings, once home to a church. Curious, I slipped inside and had a brief glance. What a massive palace of vehicles! I then looked at the front desk-receptionist. The young girl smiled in a way that was appealing. Inspired by her friendly gesture, I stepped in.
‘This was a church, as I recall. Is this a car yard now?’ I asked her.
‘Yes,’ she replied. ‘You’re right. This was once a church, but now a car yard. This is among New Zealand’s largest car yards,’ she said.
Well, that’s fascinating. Perhaps there’s a lengthy backstory to it? Is the owner here? I am from the Sri LankaNZ, a community newspaper in New Zealand.
‘From Sri LankaNZ? Great! Welcome. Please come inside.’
I was introduced to a staff member. ‘Please speak with him first,’ the counter girl asked me. ‘He is Akila, from Sri Lanka as well.’
My heart was touched by Akila’s broad Sri Lankan smile as his handshake gripped my hand.
