One Hundred Years of Education

Tokomaru Bay Primary School Centennial

The Tokomaru Bay Primary School celebrated 100 years of education on the East Coast this year. The celebrations took place over the weekend of January 29 and included a roll call, the cutting of a centenary cake, a garden tea party, a parade of floats and period costumes, and a centennial bail.

Guest speaker at the function was the Hon. D. McIntyre, Minister of Maori and Island Affairs. Other speakers also addressed the gathering, which returned to Tokomaru Bay from all parts of New Zealand for the celebrations.

The honour of cutting the centennial cake went to the two oldest ex-pupils attending the function. They were Mrs Caroline Bruce, who was at school in 1888, and Mr Jim Grant, who was at school in 1889.

Upon his arrival, Mr Mclntyre was challenged by Archie Kingi. The minister is escorted by Tokomaru Bay elder, Mr B. R. Pewhair-angi.

Master of Ceremonies Tom Edge

Calling the roll is Bob Rangiuaia

Extending the welcome is the Hoko Whitu Atu Group.

Other speakers were Bishop M. Bennett (Bishop of Aotearoa); senior Maori elder Tawhai Taraepo; school chairman, Mr T. Pewhairangi; district inspector of schools, Mr R. Dow; and, at right, Mr D. Kirkham, Hawkes Bay Board member.