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The Gisborne Photo News

 

44

New Courthouse Officially Opened

Gisborne's new ultra-modern courthouse in Reads Quay and Customhouse Street was officially opened by the Honourable J. R. Hanan, Minister of Justice and Attorney General.

The new building replaces the old wooden structure which was destroyed by fire on the same site five years ago.

Following the public opening ceremony, Mr Justice T. A. Gresson presided over the first sitting of the new court, which was crowded to capacity for the occasion.

The concrete and stone building is a prototype of models to be built in several other centres, and is the first new courthouse to be opened in the country for 23 years.

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Mr Hanan speaking at the opening ceremony. Above him is the large N.Z. Coat of Arms emblem which dominates the front of the building over the main entrance.

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The handsome new courthouse, with the official opening ceremony taking place in front of the main entrance. At right is the historic pohutukawa tree which remains on the site from the days of the earlier wooden building.

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Mr Hanan turning the key in the lock to officially open the building.

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A view of the courtroom prior to the first sitting

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The plaque in the foyer, which was unveiled by Mr Hanan.

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Gisborne's stipendiary magistrate, Mr L. N. Ritchie, was a member of the official party.

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Mr Justice T. A. Gresson, who presided over the first sitting of the court.

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Mr L. T. Burnard, senior member of the bar in Gisborne, and Mr W. C. kohn, listen attentively to the opening speeches.

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Gisborne barristers, Messrs A. J. Sheehan and R. A. Chrisp, were members of the audience...

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....as were Messrs D. R. Kohn and M. F. McIntyre