Youth Hostel Opened

"Beacon Hostel" in Awapuni Road, completed after some months of "do-it-yourself" effort by members of the Gisborne Youth Hostel Association, was officially opened January 24 by the Prime Minister, Mr W. Nash. The day was fine and sunny, and reflected the good fortune of the Association in having been able to build their new hostel on a site so near to the beach at Midway.

The hostel, which comprises a common room with cooking facilities, a large bunkroom for each sex, shower-rooms and conveniences, and a large porch, is a major achievement for the local association. Members started by felling their own timber, and have carried the job to a most successful conclusion. They were warmly congratulated on their enterprise by Mr Nash (himself a life member of the New Zealand association), and by the Mayor, Mr H. H. Barker.

Taken during the opening ceremony, this picture shows the favourable situation of the new hostel, with the sea and the historic landmark of Young Nick's Head close at hand. At right is the harbour beacon from which the hostel takes its name.

The opening ceremony, with the Prime Minister at the microphone. Left to right, Mr John Hounslow (president, Gisborne Y.H.A.), Mr Nash, Mr and Mrs Barker, and Mr and Mrs A. Parker, Napier. Mr Parker is regional chairman of the Y.H.A.

After Mr Nash had cut the ribbon across the doorway of the new building, the official party entered and inspected the premises. Left to right, Mrs Barker, Mr and Mrs Parker, Mr Nash, Mr Hounslow, and Mr Barker.

A view of the building from the seaward side, and some of the spectators who attended the opening ceremony.

The Prime Minister entering his name in the Visitors' Book.

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The Gisborne Photo News

No 55 : February 5, 1959

Youth Hostel Opened