Last night we had a leaving party where a bombshell was dropped. We knew we’d gathered to give a fitting farewell for a friend and colleague, but many of us had little idea about a name and concept this man had popularised several decades ago: Spaghetti Junction.

Everyone knows Spaghetti Junction, whether you’re an Aucklander or not. And while it’s true that worldwide there are other motorway junctions with this nickname, it wasn't until it popped into the head of Newstalk ZB’s Peter Everatt that it caught on in New Zealand. This was the late 70s and Peter was the country’s first celebrity traffic reporter as he delivered updates on the state of Auckland’s motorways from a tiny airplane, every morning and afternoon.

Spaghetti Junction; the name stuck and fast-forward to 2018, we are saying goodbye to Peter. When Newstalk ZB boss Jason Winstanley mentioned last night that Peter was the one that coined “Spaghetti Junction”, there were audible gasps. For radio geeks, it was like finding out he’d secretly written Hey Jude before humbly handing it on to Paul McCartney to take all the credit for. Then again, that would’ve been something Peter would do. Not that I know if Peter has any musical ability or not. I’ve never asked.

I wanted to mention Peter today because humility is so much a part of why he’s as widely beloved as any figure in New Zealand broadcasting. If I’d come up with Spaghetti Junction I’d make sure every new intern through the door knew about it! I’ve known Peter almost 20 years and last night was the first time I heard. I wasn’t the only one.

But there are other reasons it’s important to draw attention today to Peter Everatt. For 45 years he’s been at the upper echelon of Newstalk ZB’s on-air output as well as its behind the scenes decision-making. In an industry that can be cutthroat and brimming with as much ego as insecurity, Peter’s success and longevity is proof that nice guys can finish first.

If you went around the room last night and asked everyone what Peter meant to them, the word “kindness” is what you would have heard time and time again. Blessed with a calm and empathy that draws people to him, Peter’s years in management have meant he’s fostered the careers of literally dozens of broadcasters. The number of people last night who said, “He gave me my start!” was remarkable.

It’s not just career starts that Peter can take credit for, but careers being allowed to continue. In a crisis or time of doubt, Peter’s the one so many of us have turned to. The fact all that Yoda-like steadiness is balanced with a wicked sense of humour makes it all the better. Things were always better once you’d had a chat with Peter.

Next time you’re stuck in traffic in Spaghetti Junction, think of Peter! And be pleased that this deeply funny, compassionate and wise soul is off enjoying the wonderful retirement years he and his wife so deserve.

"45 years and all and I am remembered for is that silly name." Peter Everatt - September 28, 2018."

Tim Roxborogh hosts Newstalk ZB’s Weekend Collective and is filling-in for Andrew Dickens this week from 12pm-4pm.