When Hilary Timmins pops over to New Zealand for a visit from her home in the United Kingdom, she’ll often spot people looking at her as if to say, “You’re familiar… How do I know you?”
It usually dawns on them pretty quickly that Hilary, who has lived on the other side of the world for the past 12 years, was one of our best-known TV personalities for more than two decades.
And despite the fact she was the “Lotto Lady”, presenting the lottery draw on television for 15 years, often it’s as the co-host on It’s in the Bag that they remember her best.
“I still find it funny that people recognise me more for It’s in the Bag than Lotto,” muses Hilary on a Zoom call from her home near London. “It was the same when I first moved here and the ex-pat community would say they used to watch me on It’s in the Bag. New Zealanders have a real fondness for that show, even many years later.”
The iconic Kiwi programme began in 1954 as a radio show, hosted by Selwyn Toogood, before shifting to TV in 1973. After Selwyn retired, John Hawkesby took over as host in 1986 and Hilary got her big break as his sidekick.
Reflecting on the television show that changed her life, Hilary, 57, recalls how it felt surreal to be the newest host. Her predecessors, Heather Eggleton and Tineke Stephenson (née Bouchier), had become household names.
“I’d grown up watching it of course – I think everyone in New Zealand did – and stepping into their shoes was really quite something. I couldn’t believe it.”
This story is from the February 19, 2024 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 19, 2024 edition of New Zealand Woman's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
No-sew TASSEL CUSHION
Refresh your living space with this nifty number - no expertise required!
Ashia Singer's zingers! 'COOKING MAKES EVERYTHING BETTER'
The talented mum has the recipe for life’s ups and downs – and they’re all delicious
June to-do list FILL UP ON FRUIT
There’s still plenty to do outside – sett le in your citrus and plant up the pots!
Matt's healing journey 'I'M MY OWN CHEERLEADER NOW'
The radio star fought his way out of sadness and is now sharing his secrets
SLOW & steady
Let time be the secret ingredient with these melt-in-your-mouth meals
Rhino queen Jamie MARGOT MADE ME A WILD OFFER!
Hollywood has its sights set on the anti-poacher
FINAL FLING
Signs show the marriage is over
Royal rebels 'WE'RE DOING THINGS OUR WAY'
Zara and Mike are calling all the shots as they contemplate staying in the real world or helping out the House of Windsor
Dame Hinewehi Mohi 'I SEE MIRACLES EVERY DAY'
The singer looks back at her proudest moments and the girl who inspires it all
Wax lyrical SHINE BRIGHT
We're not blowing smoke! These easy projects will light up your rooms in a jiffy