Maungaturoto's 50th Jubilee Celebrations 1914

MAUNGATUROTO'S JUBILEE

Tuesday was a red-letter day in the history of Maungaturoto, and the settlers of this new dairying centre met to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the arrival of the pioneers. The green outside the hall was the scene of many happy recognitions and many a hearty handshake.

A feature of the gathering, which numbered from 100 to 150, was the presence of quite a large proportion of the original settlers, many of whom had come from the furthest parts of the district, and some from Auckland, in order to take part in the festivities.

The evening's proceedings commenced with a musical programme in the hall, to which the following contributed enjoyable items : —Messrs Edith Hyland, Madge Cullen, McNab, Mrs McLean, Mr W. Hook, and a glee party. An address of welcome to visitors was given by Mr. Bailey.

The member for the district, Mr Mander, who presided, made a brief speech) in the course of which he said he was one who came to New Zealand a good many years ago, “without a stitch of clothes” (Laughter). Mr. Gordon Coates, M.P. for Kaipara, and the Hon. F. W. Lang also spoke briefly, the latter apologising for the absence of the Prime Ministor.

The day's festives were brought to a close by a dance, and the jubilee was further celebrated on Thursday by the holding of gatherings specially organised for the children.

Kaipara & Waitemata Echo 11 February 1914

The First Agricultural Show

Every year the annual Paparoa A &P Show is held. Once though, Maungaturoto had their own shows. The first show was held in a 'public room' on March 2nd 1870. The article below makes for fascinating reading:

MAUNGATUROTO, WAIRAU : AGRICULTURAL SHOW.

(FROM A CORRESPONDENT.)

The first exhibition of the recently-formed Agricultural Society of this district was held at the public room, on Wednesday, March 2.

The samples of produce, though limited in variety, spoke favourably as to the capabilities of the soil, and the care and industry of the settlers. A splendid show of choice and well-grown fruits of various kinds was furnished by Mr. Hurndall, of Wairau Creek Farm ; and Mr. Huband, of Aston House Farm, exhibited a basket of the best-flavoured peaches I have met with in this country.

Potatoes of fine growth were exhibited by several of the settlers ; other root crops, seeds, and cereals, together with dairy produce, did the exhibitors great credit.

The Rev. T. Booker and Mr Charles Hook were appointed judges, and awarded prizes as follows : — Peaches : First prize, Mr. Huband ; second prize, Mr. Hurndall. Red potatoes : First prize, Mr. Howard ; second prize, Mr. Rowsell. White potatoes : First prize, Mr. Howard ; second prize, Mr. E. Martin. Carrots : First prize, Mr.Hurndall ; second prize, Mr. Howard. Parsnips : First prize, Mr. Hnband ; second prize, Mr. Hurndall. Onions : First prize, Mr. Flower ; second prize, Mr. Mason. Rye grass seed : First prize, Mr. R. Marbin (a very clean and sound sample) ; second prize, Mr. Oldham. The judges commended some exhibits not under competition, especially a collection of fruit by Mr. Hurndall and a collection of flowers by Mr. Huband. Samples of wheat by Messrs. J. Rowsell and Oldham, and some well-grown cabbages by Mr. Mason, also deserved honourable mention. — A meeting was subsequently held, when' the rules suggested by the committee were amended and confirmed, and the meeting separated, with larger hopes for the coming year.

Daily Southern Cross 26 March 1870