Steve Page
Westmeat has been a part of the Tasman community landscape for quite some time and is one of the busiest butcher shops and meat processers in the South Island. A big part of that team was its manager Kevin Krammer who has spent over 46 years in the butchery trade, the last 20 or so as manager for Westmeat.
Reluctant to chat about his retirement, nevertheless he will be missed as Kevin was always there for hundreds of fundraisers, helping sporting teams out with cheap BBQ sausages and always remained one of the more approachable businessmen in town. A recent illness with his wife Lianne has meant that he will now be taking things a little quieter, enjoying family time and concentrating on his fishing and a few hobbies around his lifestyle block in Hope.
Plus, daughter Brittany has started her new nursing career so things are busy for them all. When we spoke to him recently he said he was enjoying more than he thought the slower pace “but, after getting up so early every morning for over 45 years I still do that, strange, I thought I would sleep in but I don’t”.
As we walked around their farm we saw lots of firewood and bits and pieces that friends and family had “dropped off” and we know that they both appreciated the kindness shown by everyone. Kevin or “big Kev” as he is known, you’re a good bloke and all the best of luck on your new journey. Westmeat is in good hands with the new manager Chris Thorn.