Maud Ruby Basham, always known as Daisy, was born in London but educated at New Plymouth Girls’ High School after her family migrated to New Zealand. From childhood she entered into everything - singing, acting, debating - with verve and enthusiasm, and with determination to strive for excellence. She trained as a teacher, winning the top marks in science. In 1904 she married, and while bringing up her children, taught singing and performed in many towns. In the early 1920s she took part in a broadcasting experiment, and by the end of the decade started writing and broadcasting programmes on the lives of composers, illustrated with songs.

During the Depression the family faced tough times when regular work became scarce, but Daisy continued to present musical and children’s sessions, and later developed her memorable daily morning broadcast, opening with the theme song of “Daisy, Daisy” and her hearty “Good morning, everybody”. A committed optimist, she talked - fast and positively and remarkably clearly - about household management, recipes, uplifting thoughts, economical shopping, and current concerns or events. Her books of recipes and of handy hints became essential references. During the war she visited military bases to report on how the women of the forces lived, and she helped with campaigns to bolster morale and the war effort. Aunt Daisy’s curiosity was underpinned by high intelligence, an excellent memory, and sound judgment. She conveyed values of honesty and integrity, and was a trusted daily guest in thousands of New Zealand homes.