The Four Fours


Tauranga’s top rock and roll band of the late 1950s and early 1960s was The Four Fours, who could be found at waterfront haunt the Inferno Coffee Lounge, run by drummer Trevor Spitz. For parents, the Inferno was the fiery pits. But for kids, the flame-walled club was the hottest spot in town.

Spitz was an original Four Four, and guitarist-singer Bill Ward an early recruit. Fellow guitarist Dave Hartstone joined soon after with bass player Frank Hay the final recruit.

Theme From An Empty Coffee Lounge
The Four Fours with Maurice Greer up front on the Upper Hutt Rugby Gym Stage, 1966
Photo credit: Photo by Revelle Jackson. Revelle Jackson Collection 1966, Upper Hutt , Rugby Gym. Upper Hutt City Library Heritage Collection
Frank Hay, Maurice Greer, Dave Hartstone and Bill Ward
Shirley Ryder Show - 2022 interview with Bill Ward
'One Track Mind' 1967
Maurice Greer with The Four Fours, Upper Hutt, 1966
Photo credit: Photo by Revelle Jackson. Revelle Jackson Collection 1966, Upper Hutt , Rugby Gym. Upper Hutt City Library Heritage Collection
Trivia:

Trevor Spitz became a leading New Zealand promoter and producer in Christchurch. He died in 2012.

Members:

Trevor Spitz - drums

Bill Ward - guitar, vocals

Dave Hartstone - guitar

Frank Hay - bass

Maurice Greer - drums

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