Frasertown School 125 Years 1868-1993
Cover: Designed by James Morrell Jnr. a pupil at Frasertown 1981 – 1987. The meaning behind the design is: The Native trees a feature of the school at the top. Middle the school building as it is seen today. The river that runs in front of the school looking out to the Pakowhai Hills at the bottom. The Tui on the flax signifies the bird life in the area.
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FRASERTOWN SCHOOL
Designed by Gail Jenkins 1982
MISSION STATEMENT
(written in 1989 as part of the School Charter)
At Frasertown School we endeavour to prepare our children to the best of their ability, for the challenges that they will confront during their education and life, through programmes of work covering the requirements of the National Curriculum, provided by competent teachers taking into account the uniqueness of our community.
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FOREWORD
It is with great pleasure that I write the foreword to this History of Frasertown School. The concept of republishing the centenary history plus adding 25 years came from Mrs Michelle Brownlie, past chairman of the School’s first Board of Trustees. She not only came up with the idea, but has carried it through to fruition, chairing a special project committee made up of members of the Frasertown community. The committee has allowed the new Board of Trustees to carry on managing school affairs without the slightest worry as to the project’s outcome. The Board, the School and the community give a very special thanks to Mrs Brownlie and her committee: Mrs Pat Howard, Mr Ian McKinnon, Mrs Judy Johnston, Mr Alan Stuart, Mr Rohan Pattison and Mrs Mary Brownlie.
Thank you, too, to all those businesses and families who donated funds to make the project possible. And thank you to those who came forward with photos and remembrances.
It always strikes me as wonderful the loyalty people feel towards Frasertown School. If I mention in Wairoa that my daughter attends Frasertown School, I often get as a reply: “Oh, I went there. Best school I ever attended.” We hope this publication will give past, present and future pupils and their families something physical to treasure along with their memories of Frasertown.
Leslie Clague,
Chairman,
Frasertown School Board of Trustees,
September, 1993.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
It was decided last year one way to celebrate the 125th Anniversary of the School would be to reprint the very interesting Centenary booklet and update the last 25 years.
The “Anniversary Committee” got together at the beginning of the year to plan the format of the new book. The sponsorship of pages was extremely successful and a big thank-you to all businesses and families for their generous donations.
The task of going through minute books, log books etc. began, each of us taking home books and returning at the next meeting with notes. The history part has been mostly local knowledge. Some omissions and errors will surely occur and please accept our apologies for these.
A special thanks to my band of “happy helpers,” Pat Howard, Rohan Pattison, Ian McKinnon, Alan Stuart and Judy Johnston. Mary Brownlie who edited written work and Maureen Burton and Karen Howard who did all my typing. Andy Hardie and staff at the school for their help in filling in gaps and photocopying.
We hope you all enjoy this booklet and hopefully it will remind you of all the other happy times you and yours had at Frasertown School.
Michelle Brownlie,
Anniversary Committee,
Chairperson.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
An essential part of any School Jubilee celebrations is the compilation of a booklet outlining the history of the school. No such booklet would be complete moreover without some reference to the history of the district to which the school belongs. Thus the history of the Clydebank and Frasertown areas is, for your interest and amusement briefly outlined within the following pages. Some omissions and errors will surely manifest themselves, and for these please accept my respectful apologies.
In writing this story, l have borrowed much from two excellent books which outlined much of the early history of the Frasertown and Clydebank areas. These are “The Story of Old Wairoa” by T. Lambert and Isaac Kent’s “The East Coast Maori War” written under the pseudonym of “An Old Veteran.” To these two authors I acknowledge the debt I owe them. I acknowledge also the material I have taken from newspapers particularly the Hawke’s Bay Weekly Courier and the Hawke’s Bay Herald.
Special thanks are due also to the Alexander Turnbull Library, Mrs. H. Macaskill, and Mr. John Elmers who did much valuable research in the library, Mrs. Dave Unwin for research in the Napier Art Gallery and Museum, the Lands and Survey Dept., Gisborne, Bryan Taylor and the Clydebank C.W.I. for the Clydebank history, Bob and Ollie Phillips, Mrs. Cecil Chapman, Mrs. Neil Munro, Mr. Tom Carter, and Mere Karaka Tipoki.
I am indebted also to Sid Lambert, Mr. and Mrs. George Single, Mr. George Wilson, Mrs. A. H. H. Unwin, Arnie Beckett, Bernard Teague, Mrs. Lovie Hema, Mei Mei Edwards, Peter Pegram and Mrs Minnie Taylor.
Last but not least I express thanks to my wife, on whom I “tried out” my literary efforts and who later classified remaining material, and Mr. Bryce McPherson, who edited the work.
D. P. J. CROFSKEY,
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A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAIRMAN
I take this opportunity to welcome all past pupils, teachers, committee members, and Home and School Association officers to this function. I wish all a pleasant weekend and hope that the programme will be enjoyed by everyone.
I would also like to pay tribute to all those associated with the school in the past, who together with the teachers have given us a school of which we can be justifiably proud.
On your behalf I express sincere thanks to the centenary committee, especially our secretary, Mrs. Myrtle Stone, who have worked so very hard to make the function a complete success.
D. P. J. CROFSKEY,
Chairman, Frasertown and Clydebank Committee.
FROM CHAIRMAN H.B.E.B.
Congratulations to the Frasertown and Clydebank Schools on the celebration of their Centenary during the Labour Day weekend.
This is indeed a very worthy occasion when two adjacent schools combine to celebrate together.
Days that have passed will be recalled and memories of events and past occasions will be brought back to life in the happiness of the re-union.
Pupils of the past will be there, now grown much older, and possibly wiser with the years.
There will come to life many who have been forgotten in the intervening years and who now present themselves afresh.
Who will be the oldest at the re-union? These and other questions will remain unsettled until “we” get together.
I wish you all a very happy time with many pleasant memories of past days to talk over.
Chairman, H.B. Education Board.
L. R. LEWIS.
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FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, 1968.
Members of School Staff (S), Committee (SC), Home and School Assoc. (HS), and Jubilee Committee (JC)
Back Row (l. to r.). – B. Taylor (JC), S. Lambert (ASC, JC), H. Beckett (JC), F. Taylor (SC), R. Hill (JC), D. Wilson (JC), R. Trafford (JC).
Middle Row (l. to r.). – Mrs R. Wilson (SC), Mrs J. Brownlie (SC), D. Arundel (JC), R. Macdonald (S), T. King (S), Mrs. A. Unwin (HAS), Mrs M. Stewart (S).
Front Row (l. to r.). – Mrs. F. Evans (S), Mrs. M. Stone (JC Sec.), Mrs. J. Davey (SC Sec.), C. Browne (SC Chair.), Miss L. Anderson (S. HAS Sec), D. Crofskey (S Head Teacher, HAS, JC Chair.). Mrs D. Wilson (JC.
Absent. – B. McKinnon (HAS Chair., SC, JC), Mrs. J. Taylor (HSA).
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THE COMING OF THE MAORI
About 1350 the Takitimu canoe landed near North Cape, but was driven by a storm to Hokianga where Tamatea and his people stayed for some years. It later put to sea again and sailed to Whakatane where some of the crew settled. It continued its voyage to the Bay of Islands, and then to Waiapu on the East Coast, where more of Tamatea’s people settled. It is from these settlers that Ngati-Kahungunu, the principal tribe of the Wairoa people is derived. The tribal name for the Frasertown district is Ngai “Tamaterangi” which translated means “the tribe of Tamaterangi”. Ngai Tamaterangi is a sub-tribe of Ngati-Kahungunu and the ancestors of our modern Maori people probably settled in Frasertown some years after the arrival of the main body in Wairoa. In time Ngai Tamaterangi split up into several sub-tribes which retain their identities to this very day. Ngati-Makora is the tribe which occupies the Mill Pa. Ramoto and Pakowai were inhabited by the Ngati-Mihi tribe, and Hine-Pehinga is the name given to the tribe at Putahi. Another pa, Hiku-Koe-Koea, belonged to Tahito (Ruapani line) and was situated at the mouth of the Kahauroa creek on the western side. The longest front of the Pa has long since been washed into the Wairoa River.
Te Hata Tipoki, whose body lies in the Pakowhai burial ground, was the paramount chief of the Tamaterangi tribe. His son, Turi Tipoki, father of Mere Karaka Tipoki, is the present paramount chief. Other children of Hata Tipoki are Mrs. Tom Cooper, Joe Tipoki, Rehania Tipoki, and the late Pani Tipoki. Noted as a kind and generous leader, Te Hata Tipoki lived for a time at Pakowhai before transferring to live at Putahi. He is also a direct descendent of Pitihera Kopu, whose mana among all the East Coast Tribes is very great indeed.
If one could delve into a complete history of Ngai-Tamaterangi no doubt a most interesting story would result. Such a story, however, would require much more space than is possible to give, so we must be content with a few significant, relatively modern facts.
During the 1860s any peace which might have reigned in the area was suddenly shattered by the arrival, of Te Kooti and Hauhau emissaries from Taranaki, on the scene. Many of the people of Tamaterangi joined forces with this doughty old warrior, and, until the surrender of the rebels in 1866, the areas fringing Frasertown were witnesses to much slaughter and bitterness. One can cite many reasons for local sympathy for Te Kooti, all of which would be somewhere near the truth. Many, no doubt, had a sincere belief in Hauhauism, and coupled with their natural and strong devotion to the land they felt was slipping away from them, made one with this famous chief. That Te Kooti was unjustly treated in being imprisoned in the Chathams, and his great mana as chief and prophet, was probably another reason for the loyalty of his followers. A few also joined forces under compulsion. After long and protracted skirmishing with the European forces, under Colonel Fraser and others, and loyal Maoris under Kopu and Ihaka Whaanga, a peace was finally established at Ramoto in 1866 (see European Settlement).
Another famous line can be traced from the Rev. Tamihana Huata, the first Maori
Anglican Minister for Wairoa, and brother of Te Hapimana, a noted leader of the Maori people in Hauhau days. The Rev. Tamihana Huata was a close friend of Te Kooti’s who respected him so much that he declared the following words, “Te tara whanui ote whare kia koe te tara whaiti keaua” which, translated means, “The greater part of the house is to you, and the smaller part is to me.” At no time were the Maoris at Ramoto, Putahi, and the Mill in danger of attack from the Hauhaus since that period. From that time also, the link between the Ringatu church of Te Kooti and the Maori Anglican Church has been very close. Tamihana was the father of the Rev. Hemi Pereiha Huata, named after Colonel Fraser. Canon Wi Huata of Hamilton, Aussie Huata, and Mrs. Lovie Hema are children of the Rev. Hemi Huata. This gives the Huata family a record of over 110 years with the Maori Anglican Church.
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Any story of Maori occupation would not be complete, without mention of Pitihera Kopu, not a chief by descent, but known as a highly capable war lord and staunch friend of the white people. He married Mere Karaka of illustrious descent, was undoubtedly the leading Toa of Ngati-Kahungunu, and withal a remarkably generous, kind-hearted, man. With Ihaka Whaanga, he rendered signal aid to the Europeans and shared much responsibility in keeping Frasertown and Wairoa safe from Hauhau attack. A memorial to this great man stands on the bank of the Wairoa River, opposite the Wairoa Library.
FERRY CROSSING BEFORE THE BUILDING OF THE BRIDGE.
FRASERTOWN (TAMA-TE-RANGI) BRIDGE 1911.
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EUROPEAN SETTLEMENT
Unquestionably, organised European settlement of Frasertown began with arrival of military settlers in 1866. However there is much evidence to show some contact and settlement before that date. From 1829 whalers were very active along this coast, one of them, John Morrell, alias French John or “Johnny Wiwi” (corruption of the French “oui, oui”) being a grand ancestor to the Frasertown Morrells. He was supposed to have built the first boat in Wairoa. Flax and timber traders settled along the Wairoa River bank and journeyed up-river to trade with the Maoris. From 1841 missions also probably made contact with the native inhabitants, and introduced them to the growing of Governor Grey’s maize and wheat, with which crop the district abounded at the time of military settlement.
In the early 1850s a ketch, called the “Scamperdown,” was built at the mouth of the Kahauroa creek by a man called Norcross. She was sailed and owned by William and Thad Lewis and was perhaps the first wholly European built vessel launched in Wairoa. As early as 1857 she was carrying timber and shingles to Napier. Incidently, the appellation “Scamperdown” was given the Kahauroa creek, because a whale of that species wandered up-river to the mouth of that stream, was chased in and killed by the Maoris, who feasted royally for some days afterwards.
The local and numerous Maori population were notoriously reluctant to sell land. Hazards in plenty awaited those who attempted to squat. One Felix Goullett, from whom the Arundels, Becketts, Phillips and Singles can claim descent or connection, was perhaps one of the earliest of European settlers. At the death of his wife, a Maori maiden from Akaroa Felix emigrated to Frasertown and squatted on a piece of land up the Waiau River. He married a European woman and by 1869 had fathered six daughters, the eldest of whom was not more than eight years old. He had no title to the land but occupied it on the strength of his friendship with the Urewera tribes. Even when they carried off a few of his sheep that intrepid pioneer cared little. As he said, they had a perfect right, the land, after all being theirs. This friendship was later proved to be on rather shaky ground.
Later to take up a military section, a Mr. Jas. W. Witty was one of those early on the scene. A man of foresight, as early as 1860 he recommended that the government investigate Lake Waikaremoana as a power source for the North Island.
A detailed and interesting account of the exploits of one of the earliest military settlers, is told by Isaac Kent in “The East Coast Maori War,” written under the pseudonym of “An Old Veteran”. It will be worthwhile digressing here, for a piece as his story is of intimate interest to not a few present day Frasertown residents. Born in London in 1840 he made his first appearance in New Zealand on the Otago goldfields in the early 1860s. Prior to this he had served time as a seaman on an immigrant ship, been shipwrecked, and sailed with a whaler. When the gold fever passed, he decided on moving to Australia, but was persuaded to try his fortunes with the Hawke’s Bay military settlers,
FRASERTOWN PICNIC GROUP, 1914.
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arriving in Clive in 1865. He was one of fifty men sent to Waiapu with Colonel Fraser, thence to Wairoa which consisted on [of] one hotel, two stores, and a river bank lined with groves of cherry and apple trees. The force went to Frasertown “through hundreds of acres of maize and fruit trees”.
On Christmas Eve of that year the settlers marched to Marumaru where the rebels, under Te Waru, had a fortified pa. On Christmas Day fighting took place and Capt. Hussey was shot through the head. A friendly Maori force under Ihaka Whaanga lost nine men. The pa was taken at midnight the rebels being pursued up the Mangaruhe [Mangaaruhe] River. The settlers withdrew and made a redoubt on the river flats a mile above Frasertown. Kent took part in numerous other engagements, at Ardkeen, Waikaremoana, Turiroa, and Opoiti. Back at Wairoa Kent was informed that his uncle had died in Tasmania and had left him a legacy. His leave pass for the trip to Tasmania seems pretty loose by present day standards – “Corporal Isaac Kent has my permission to proceed to Hobart on urgent private business and may not remain absent any longer than he can help” (signed) James Fraser – in charge of H.B. Military Settlers, N.Z.
In October, 1866, Kent saw action in the Petane-Eskdale district. Things became fairly quiet then and the company was disbanded. Kent settled down in Marumaru, bought a team of bullocks and went post splitting. Te Kooti’s escape from the Chathams brought the company back into action. Forces under Sir George Whitmore, Colonel Fraser, Major Arthur Tuke, and Ihaka Whaanga pursued Te Kooti into the Ruakaturi [Ruakituri] country. The rebels were located on a spur. Fraser and Tuke wanted to burn the Maoris out but Whitmore, whom Kent obviously had little regard for, ordered a party to advance up the ridge. Kent gives this account of the action –
“After the party had gone a quarter of a mile the rebels opened fire which made the men come back quicker than they went up, leaving Captain Carr, Mr. Canning and two men dead; Major Tuke had one arm broken and several men were injured. Whitmore then asked what he was to do, and one of the men said, ‘Clear out you b … You are not fit to manage a cat. You ought to be put in a glass case and kept as a picture of a fool’.”
“Whitmore was going to let those who had fallen remain where they were, but Fraser called for fifty volunteers and soon obtained them. He put them in four rows with ten feet between each row with the men well spread out. Then, placing himself in the middle, Fraser began the advance in search of the dead. The rebels did not fire
FRASERTOWN CRICKET TEAM, 1915.
Back Row (l. to r.). – Harry Lambert, Con. Beckett, Bob. Phillips, Harry Roberts, Fred Rutherford, Claude Stacey, Ernie Arundel, Norm. Phillips, George Phillips.
Front Row (l. to r.). – Tommy Edwards, Toby Stacey, Percy Heming, Arthur Steed, Ab. Beckett, Len Phillips, –
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having retired further up the spur. Major Tuke was the first man they came across and he was crawling down the hill, then the two volunteers, then Captain Carr and Mr. Canning.”
Kent’s loyalty to Fraser and his dislike of Whitmore may have allowed his feelings to colour this account. His admiration for Fraser was unstinted. He says of him, “He would never expose the men to any more danger than he could help, which made the men like him”.
The troubles ended with the pardoning of Te Kooti. Kent started a store in Frasertown, reportedly in the house lately occupied by Colonel Fraser (present owner, Archie McKinnon) His next venture was pit-sawing timber in partnership with a man named Heslop. In three years they worked out the smallbush at Frasertown.
Isaac Kent’s descendents [descendants] still live in the district. Mrs. Maxwell of Frasertown, Mr. H. Kent of Marumaru, and Mr. A. Kent of Opoiti, are grandchildren. Mr. H. Kent and his sons still farm the land that was purchased by Isaac Kent from the Crown after the confiscations in 1866.
As can be seen from the above, Frasertown during the 1860s was a mighty dangerous place to live. In 1865 it was a military post, where it was only safe to remain while the soldiers were about. A redoubt was constructed at Springhill, probably that referred to by Kent, and later a Blockhouse was constructed in the village. This was sited at the back of Mr. Peter Pegram’s present property. The metalled square is still recognisable to this very day. A traveller passing through in 1875 mentions the “fine Blockhouse and buildings which at once strike the eye.” Colonel Fraser later changed his abode from McKinnons’ House (reputedly 108 years old) to one specially built for him. This was until recently occupied by Jack Jenkins and family.
By October, 1868, settlers who had arrived two years earlier in the “Star of the South” under Colonel Fraser, took up lands between Frasertown and Marumaru. Before listing these settlers, it is appropriate at this
FRASERTOWN (BORDER) HOTEL IN THE EIGHTIES.
The back portion was the original hotel in Hauhau Days.
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stage to view the circumstances under which they became entitled to their lands.
When the upper Wairoa Maoris surrendered in March, 1866, a great meeting of rebels and loyals took place at Ramoto, opposite the junction of the Wairoa and Waiau Rivers. Colonel Fraser and other officers were present. The rebels were lined up on one side of the Marae and each in turn took the oath of allegiance to the Queen. Pitiera Kopu, the loyal chief addressed them then saying, “For your offences your lands are confiscated but you will not be landless; the government will allot you reserves which will be crown granted to you for your use and occupation. The other land is gone to the Crown and, until these lands have been surveyed and the portions given to the loyal Maoris, and the Crown cut out, you will be given a resting place.” Then, pointing to the other side of the river where the village of Frasertown is now situated, he said, “Haere mai, taku mokai ki ti kapu o toku ringaringa noho ai” or “My pet bird come and rest in the palm of my hand.” The name “Te Kapu” was given the spot as a result of this speech. There is, however, some conflict on the matter. A Maori present at the occasion says the words used were “Kairoto kotou i te kapunga o taku ringa” meaning “You are all in the palm of my hand” (kapunga meaning “hand”). Kopu apparently had a habit of chopping off the ends of his words, so he may have used the word “kapu” instead of “kapunga”. The conflict will probably never be resolved which matters little as both expressions appear appropriate under the circumstances. Actually, prior to all this the area was known to the Maoris as “Waiparapara”. Not long afterwards, the name Frasertown was given the area (probably when Colonel Fraser died) and the name Te Kapu was used alongside this for many years. Indeed many present day Maoris use the appelation [appellation] Te Kapu when speaking in their native tongue.
The land confiscated and known as the “Wairoa Block” became forfeit under the terms of the “New Zealand Settlements Act, 1863” and included the following: “All that block of land in the province of Auckland commencing at the mouth of the Kahauroa Stream, then up that river to its source, thence to the Mangapoike by the shortest line, thence down the Mangapoike to its junction with the Wairoa River, thence up the Mangaruhe to the mouth of the Mangakapua, thence to its source to Ahia Te Atua, thence in a straight line to the junction of the Waikaretaheke with the Waiau, thence following a course of the Waiau to its junction with the Wairoa, thence to the mouth of the Kahauroa, the starting point.” Every military settler was entitled to select out of the confiscation block four acres to every one he held at the time of the selection. The amount of land selected was limited between 100 and 1600 acres. The purchase price was 5s an acre, or 6s 8d if payment was spread over a period of time. From an 1868 survey map of the area the following persons held village sections ranging from quarter to one are: J. H. Smyth, Jos. Herd, Daniel Brown, Lawrence
BORDER HOTEL 1909 – A. Beckett, Prop.
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Sadlier, John Taylor, Michael Boland, Stephen Stacey, William Shearer, Thos. Purcell, A. Stenning, Timothy Murphy, Ann Goldsmith, Caron Fellowes, William Howard, Alfred Banks, Andrew Lawson, Wm. Maisey, W. R. Robinson, Patrick Condon, Owen Cowan, F. C. Mackay, John Ahearn, Herbert Micael Finucane, Geo. Flint, Henry Flint, Marsh, Wm. Lawther, Wm. Marsh, Thomas Beckett, Fred Keating, Robt. Shedden, Edmund Tuke, A. Ross, Isaac Kent, Frederick Francis Ormond, Francis McHugh, Chas. Harrison, Patrick Hopkins, Wm. Frick, James Cummins, John Fitzpatrick, Wm. Swan, John Waringham, H. Geddis, Wm. Mawn, James Muratt, Matthew McKinney, James Cocklin, James Munro, Wm. Sullivan, T. V. Moody. David Read, Chas. Langdon, Peter Malcolm, Alexander Smith, Thos. John Robson, Ge. Banks, Christopher Gray, Christopher McNally, Peter Smith, Peter Ross, James Griffen, Lawrence Middleton, Godfrey Hogan, S. L. Fraser, Wm. Marshall, Robert Wilford, Theodore Clifton, James Moroney, Arthur Steed, William Stewart, Wm. Carter, Kyran O’Dee, Marg. Sullivan, Jas. McCracken, John Skelton, Jas. Fletcher, Jas. W. Witty, Alfred Mitchell, Geo. Hill, John McCreedy, Geo. Mayo, Wm. Mayo, Chas. Thomas, H. H. Carr, James McQuinlan, Robt. Stewart, Bernard Read, Samuel Read, A. Jeffries, Daniel Atkins, W. Watson, H. Watkins, A. Gardner, Samuel Black. It is of interest to note that one section was reserved for Kopu’s widow. This land is at present occupied by one of his direct descendents, Mere Karaka Tipoki. Her christian names, Mere Karaka, derive from the wife of that doughty warrior. Blocks of land ranging from 100 acres to the 1600 acre imit [limit] were selected by the following: J. W. Witty, Fletcher, Taylor, Carter, Kent, Mayo, Stacey, Flint, Maney, Reed, Uddleton, Herd, Neagle, Moloney, Powdrell, Beckett. A. H Price (christian names or initials not given in all cases). The Kents, at least, still hold property inherited from these ancestors. Readers may recognise other ancestors among the
CLYDEBANK TENNIS CLUB ABOUT 1935.
From l. to r. – Betty Taylor, I. Farquhar, Eric McKenzie, H.O. Taylor, Con Crispin, Frank Taylor, Kathleen Jago, – McKenzie, Peter Howell, D. McKenzie, R. McKenzie, B. Howell (sitting).
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group.
The area was still subject to Hauhau raids right up till 1870. An incident related by H. H. Carr tells how he once saved Wairoa from an attack. He was playing on his cornet in his hut as a band of Hauhaus came through on their way to attack Wairoa. Hearing the sound, the Maoris thought it was a military party in advance and fled. J. H. Smyth relates another incident similar to the above (perhaps the same). While working at some distance from his house at Waitahora (near Frasertown) he was warned by a Maori lad from Ramoto to clear out, as Nama and his men were at Mangaruhe on the way to attack Frasertown. He took his family and a few possessions down to Frasertown by canoe. Here he picked up Mickey Boland and his wife and went with all speed down the rapids to Wairoa. The Kents also fled down the river during this alarm. On returning next day, he found that his place had indeed been plundered by Hauhaus. They were a scouting party however and probably did not intend raiding the village.
A few days later the military ordered all the settlers into Wairoa as further Hauhau raids were feared. The Ramoto Maoris (friendlies) thought that the Pakehas had gone for good and came to plunder all that they could lay their hands on. That is, all except the Border Hotel, not long built and owned by Tom Beckett. Although the shelves were fully stocked chief Hapimana ordered it left well alone. Such restraint! A couple of days later the alarm proved false and the settlers returned to the village.
Another interesting incident concerned Felix Goullett. In 1869, he was one of several settlers ordered to come in for safety but declined to adhere to the order. Twelve men under Capt. Spiller set out to persuade him to accept the request. On reaching his place they found David Gennell (Scotch Jock) with him. Felix was loth to leave but was finally persuaded to do so. He begged however, time to get his wool down the river. With Scotch Jock as guide they scouted for a couple of days, to see if there were any Hauhaus in the vicinity. On returning they found Felix not yet ready to leave but he said he would be ready to do so in a day.
BECKETT BROS. “FLEET” ABOUT 1926.
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Later on they approached the woolshed (hidden from the house) just in time to see two Maoris, who were shipping the wool, murdered by Hauhaus. Felix needed no more persuading. Rushing home he gathered up wife, children, a few belongings, and partly pushing the canoe, partly fording, he got over the Waiau River. He then scaled the cliff on the other side with family and belongings where they lay hidden till morning. They then pushed on to Wairoa. One of the girls Felix carried on his back up the cliff later became Mrs. H. Beckett, whose daughter, Mrs. G. Arundel, still resides in the district.
Because of the danger of Hauhau raids, even as late as 1870, many of the settlers spent periods living in tents close to the blockhouse. A trench was dug from the camp to the blockhouse so the settlers could have some shelter when they scrambled to safety.
By 1872, as intimated earlier, with Te Kooti’s pardon and banishment to the King Country, troubles ended. Later Te Kooti evinced a strong desire to return to the scene of crimes. As many (both white and brown) declared their intention of killing him on sight, he was prevailed upon to delay his journey. In 1889, however, he did make his way to the coast. At Opotiki he was taken into custody, and quietly led back to the King Country. This is probably the time when he passed through Frasertown, an event recalled by parents of our present senior citizens. Te Kooti and several of his followers were masked to confuse any would-be assassin.
Thus were the stormy beginnings of Frasertown. The district gradually settled down to the serious task of making a living. Fortunes were not made overnight, however, Mr. Carr stating that when he came off his section he had only a pair of pants to his credit.
The Clydebank story needs no separate account, as its later history is intimately connected with that of Frasertown. However, as its origins were slightly different, some digression is required to relate these. The “Burnside” property, although not part of the confiscation block, had been occupied by white men since 1869. Clydebank was bought from the Maoris, whose small pas dotted the area, in the early 1870s. The block comprised 10,000 acres, and was purchased by Mr. A. H. Duff. The Maoris moved to the Mill Pa flats, where wheat farms had been established with a flour mill, making them almost [almost] self-supporting. Mr. Duff farmed the property, assisted by two shepherds and a cook. A Hawke’s Bay Herald report of March, 1877, stated that “Mr. Duff is clearing his scrub, 500 acres of it which will soon be clothed in green”. The neighbouring Burnside property was bought by Isaac Taylor, who used a team of bullocks to transport his possessions to his property, in 1884. The whole of the Clydesbank [Clydebank] area was later taken over by the government, who divided it into 23 blocks of about 450 acres each. These were balloted for on 4th March, 1910, with the prices of land ranging from £3 to £7 an acre. Successful ballotees were: B. Brown/Penty, A. Stevens, O. Elliott. C. Woodley, J. Body, Miss E. Taylor, Mrs. A. Black, D. McKenzie, J. Swan, Ibsen. F. Crispin, C. Crispin, Baker, G. Merrie, J. Pattison, G. Wilson, Gorringe, J. Mcleod, R. Jobin, and G. Jarden.
With closer settlement, development began in earnest. Settlers brought in stock over the partly formed road from Scamperdown, and built homes. Provisions were brought in by packhorse on many occasions. All the new settlers’ sheep were shorn at Burnside with blade shears. Fat stock were taken to Napier by drovers until the Farmers’ Meat Coy. was established in Wairoa in 1917. The giant totara trees growing in profusion were used to good effect in building dwellings, sheds, posts and battens.
An interesting story concerns a totara tree of enormous proportions growing at the back of Clydebank. Felled by the Maoris, it was dragged to the coast by thousands of men. Out of the giant log, a canoe, 84 feet long, and 6 feet in beam was fashioned. It was named “Te Toki a Tapiri”. It changed hands several times among the Maoris, once for a piebald stallion the like of which had never been seen. Eventually “Te Toki a Tapiri” reached Auckland, when it was seized by the government, who thought it may be put to warlike use. Now the finest historical war canoe in existence, she is a fitting relic to remind us of the enormous size of totara trees once growing at Clydebank.
To return to the general account, as witnessed at Clydebank, with the gradual clearing of land farming got under way, with sheep farming emerging as the predominant type. The wool was dragged to one of the several wharves around Frasertown, by bullock, horse-drawn wagons or sledges. From there it was floated on punts, and later boats,
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down the river to Wairoa. Sheep returns for the year 1887 show the following flock sizes:
J. Couper, 5,000; R. J. Couper, 2,500; Wm. Elliott, 4,200; Felix Goullett, 450; W. E. Griffin, 5,493; S. G. Stacey, 400; C. Pyke, 4,100; R. E. Stevens, 4,000; I. E. Taylor, 1,700; Tunks and Worthington, 3,000.
Dairy farming too had its place, enough at least to warrant the establishment of a creamery. This was sited on the property at present occupied by Peter Morten. Milk from nearby farms was sent to the creamery to be skimmed of its riches, then sold locally or sent down the river to Wairoa.
Apart from the early trade in flax and timber, probably the earliest profitable pastoral industry was the growing of grain, in particular wheat and maize. Extensive wheat crops lined both sides of the road at the mill, extending as far as Adsett’s property to the west and Awamate to the east. In the early 1860s, the “Zillah” carried 1600 bushels of wheat from the Scamperdown to Auckland. The wheat finally went to Sydney where it was sold for 12s a bushel.
According to paper reports of the period, in the early 1870s, Frasertown settlers also had some idea of turning the area into a fruit bowl. The Hawke’s Bay Herald of 2/3/75 quotes a traveller on his way to see “the wonders of Lake Waikaremoana” as follows – “This is a fine fruit growing district. I never travelled through one that had fruit in such profusion. It is in fact, one beautiful orchard. Groves of apple trees laden with the rosy fruit, and plums and peaches are in great profusion. I find that even the cattle, horses, and dogs feed upon the fruit as it falls to the ground.”
From this stage the story will best be told by reviewing the various facilities, services, etc. which grew towards the close of the 19th century and flourished well into the 20th.
TRANSPORT
From earliest times, the river afforded the best and almost the sole means of transport and did so well into the present century. This would probably account for the late development of road transport in the area. According to the Hawke’s Bay Herald of 1875, the provincial council voted money to remove snags from our “beautiful river”. In course of time it will be “the highway to Frasertown”. Wharves were sited at Scamperdown (mouth of the Kaharoa creek) at Ramoto (junction of the Waiau and Wairoa Rivers) and there was the ferry wharf behind Forsyth’s house. Punts loaded with wool, wheat, timber, etc. regularly plied the river until more substantial services were established. The “Tuata” was a regular visitor at Ramoto (or Pakowhai). The first steamer, “Te Teko”, called at Pakowai about 1907.
Until the bridge was built, the ferry occupied an important place as regards transport in the area. The craft was a flat bottomed vessel, of fairly rudimentary design, which plied back and forth above the present bridge site. It carried, among other things, people, cattle, and vehicles. The county council controlled the service and accepted tenders from people willing to operate the ferry. Among those who successfully tendered for the service, were G. Rigby and a Mr. Palmer. The house at present occupied by Governors was the ferry proprietor’s residence. The precarious nature of crossing on the ferry may well be imagined. On at least one occasion, two horses and a buggy went off the end of the craft.
Naturally the first roads in the area, constructed initially with help from the armed constabulary, were little better than clay tracks. Indeed, even as late at [as] 1925, the Frasertown Road, although metalled was a mass of mud patches and potholes in wet weather. From the very first settlers using sledges and wagons drawn by bullocks, and later horses, provided their own transport. Mr. George Wilson relates how Kinross White, from Napier, brought supplies to the Scamperdown in the early 1880s, from where they would be dragged by bullock sledge to Taylor’s property at Clydebank Steve Stacey operated a transport service near the turn of the century, picking up goods from one of the several wharves and delivering around the village. Stan Dickey transported wool and timber to the Scamperdown wharf by bullock wagon from the Marumaru and Clydebank areas. The same gentleman also transported timber for the building of the bridge. A Mr. Shand operated a horse and wagon carrying service on the Waikaremoana road.
Until George Jenkins commenced a daily horse coach service to Wairoa shortly after the turn of the century, there were no regular services between Frasertown and Wairoa. Mention is made, however, in paper reports of the 1870s, of Mr. Mayo’s coach being available to take passengers to Wairoa.
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This was not presumably a commercial service.
The Hawke’s Bay Motor Coy. were in the area from 1906. With the opening of the bridge in 1909 it began regular services to Frasertown and Waikaremoana. In 1911 the Beckett Bros. – Conrad, Charles, Arnold, and Harold – took over from Mr. Jenkins, commencing with a horse drawn coach. This was later followed by the first solid-tyred motor coach, a Denby 20 seater. A Ford 12 seater with pneumatic tyres later joined the service and, by the 1920s, the Beckett Bros. owned a fleet of some seven or eight vehicles, including both passenger and goods transports. From 1921 till 1939 a Duco car service operated daily to Lake Waikaremoana. It may seem strange that the village and surrounding farms could provide enough paying customers to make two businesses worthwhile. However, I am assured that both the Motor Coy. and Beckett Bros. were flourishing businesses, and competed amiably for many years Both had their “own” customers and mutual respect for this arrangement was always uppermost. The Becketts continued operations until 1945, when Messrs. Wyn Whitehead, Frank Evans, and Dave Lawton bought them out and formed the “Kiwi Transport Coy.” Michael Compton later replacing Dave Lawton as a partner in the firm. This firm has continued to provide a regular and efficient service to Frasertown and district right up till the present. It is only this year that the Kiwi Transport Coy. has relinquished its passenger service to Wairoa. The familiar “Kiwi” bus will long be remembered by residents of the Frasertown and Wairoa districts.
In 1911 the metalling of the road between the Frasertown and Scamperdown bridges was completed. Slow progress was made, however, on the Frasertown road, T. Lambert mentioning its “appalling state” as late as 1925. Matters improved slowly until, in the late 1940s, sealing was completed. The road through the village was first sealed in 1938.
TRADING.
In 1868 a co-operative canteen operated in Frasertown The Hawke’s Bay Herald of 25/2/68 also mentions the meeting to build
JUNCTION HOTEL ABOUT 1895.
(Arundel Family in foreground).
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a schoolhouse at Frasertown, as taking place in the “spacious store” of Messrs. Mayo & Gray. In 1875 a traveller writing for the same paper mentions “Mr. Maney’s fine building and from its size there must be a good trade doing.” Presumably Mr. Maney ran a general store. The same traveller continues: “One does not often get a glimpse of the Napier Telegraph up here, but when one does, it is usually to the glorification of Te Kapu and consequent deprecation of Clyde (Wairoa).
As mentioned, Isaac Kent ran a store in the house later occupied by Colonel Fraser. Until well into the 20th Century a general store and Post Office was located on the present site of Mrs. Morrell’s (sen.) residence. A Mr. Lendorf ran this establishment for a time, Mr. Tunks being proprietor when it ceased operations. The store once sited opposite the memorial, was built by Mr. Tunks in 1909. Until it was burnt down in 1931 successive owners were Winters, Foxes, Oldhams and Kennetts
The present shop of F. J. Kilkelly was built before the turn of the century and was connected with the Steed family for many years. Later it was sold by Mrs. Gunnell (previously Mrs. Steed) to Mr. and Mrs. Arnie Beckett, the present owners taking over in 1965. The shop of C. & J. Browne was built by the Phillips Bros. in 1911 as a bakery with adjoining Post Office. Later it was run as a general store by Jack Murray, Jack Pugh, Bob Phillips and sister Elsie, and Arthur Champion until it was taken over in recent years by C. & T. Browne Ltd
About 1900, Frasertown was prosperous enough to support a cordial factory, located
somewhere near T. Waihape’s home. For at least a short while a bootshop the “Junction.” Mr. Bob. Phillips clearly remembers being awarded a pair of boots for a win at athletics and picking them up from this shop. A saddler’s shop once flourished in the Marianne Dairy. Other sites for this have been mentioned, but could not be verified. Jack Riddell, Aussie Throstle, and Frank Oldham successively ran this business. A butcher’s shop did a good trade in the building opposite Forsyth’s residence. The Stacey Bros. followed by Tom Hardy, Bob Crarer, and, more recently, George Single were the village butchers. A Mrs. Hayden ran a small bakery shop next to the Border Hotel. This ceased business just after the new Border was built.
Pioneer thirsts were well looked after. During the early 1860s the Junction Hotel supplied liquor under the proprietorship of Mr. MacMurray. Mr. J. Couper bought the building and ran the establishment purely as a boarding house. This was later owned by Mr. Parker, then leased by the Arundel family. It was then bought by Seymour Lambert and, during his time, the top storey was dismantled and set up as a residence. This residence is now occupied by Mr. Peter Morten. The bottom half is, of course, retained by one of Seymour Lambert’s sons, Mr. Syd. Lambert. Incidently [Incidentally] the “Junction” hotel was so named, because it was once a stable where horses were changed en route to Waikaremoana or Gisborne.
The “Border” hotel was built in 1867 on the present site of the Frasertown Tavern. It received its name from the fact that Frasertown was at one time the border between the Hawke’s Bay and Auckland provinces. The first owner and proprietor was Mr. Tom Beckett. During the years this building was added to substantially. It was demolished in 1901, and the fine building then constructed lasted until 1964, when it was destroyed by fire. The “Cyclopedia of New Zealand,” 1908, had this to say about the hotel – “It is a two-storeyed wooden building fitted with all modern conveniences. The appointments and furnishings throughout are such as one rarely finds outside a city. A wide balcony runs round the entire front of the building the bedrooms overlooking which are fitted with French casement doors. The bar is stocked with the best brands of ales, liquors, spirits and wines, special attention being paid to this department by the host in person. The dining room is capable of holding 60 guests whilst the cuisine is of a very high standard and the attendance excellent. This department is under the personal supervision of Mrs. Beckett, who spares no pains in attending to the wants of tourists and the general public. The hotel includes eight bedrooms, a billiard room, a commercial room and several sitting rooms.” The licensee at that time was Mr. Alfred Beckett.
Business was carried on after the fire in 1964 in a “tin shed’” until the present fine Tavern was completed in 1967. Among others previous licensees were Messrs. O. McPhee, Nash, Standing, Mick Sheehan, Jack Dunn, and D. Price. The present licensee is Mr. Stan Burgess.
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RECREATION
Although our pioneers worked hard, they knew well how to assume [amuse] themselves, and the earliest Frasertown residents were no exception in this category. The country “sports meeting” provided a whole host of entertainment during the pioneer years. In the Hawke’s Bay Herald of 16/1/72 we read “Te Kapu Annual Sports at Mr. Smyth’s grounds – all the world and his wife, many who could ride and many who could not. The programme was: All comers’ race, ¾ mile: 100 yards. foot race: Long Jump: Galloway race, 1 mile: Hurdle race, 6 flights of hurdles: Boys’ race, European: Boys’ Race, Maori: Te Kapu Purse: This was the main race of the day. Lunch was provided by the committee, fair visitors eating first, then the sterner sex, Maoris last.” On 22/12/1873, the same paper mentions sports being held in Mr. Maney’s paddock, followed by a ball in the evening. On 1/1/1875 “The Oddfellows fete and ball to be held at Te Kapu on Monday, 28th January, is likely to be a great success as all the fair sex of the township is going to it. Mr. Mayo’s coach will be available to carry visitors to and from Te Kapu which will be a great convenience.” After the sports of 1876 the Hawke’s Bay Herald reports an “All comers’ Rifle match and Handicap.”
These sports continued well into the present century, and many of the parents of the present generation of school children remember either having watched or taken part in them. At one time sports and athletics were combined on the programme, at other times on separate days.
Just after the Border Hotel was rebuilt in 1901 the Agricultural and Pastoral Show for the district of Wairoa was commenced in Frasertown. This was an important local event, which attracted competitors and spectators from all parts of the province. In 1910, at the time when Mr. Sinclair was president and Mr. A. E. Beckett secretary, the venue was altered to Wairoa.
A tennis club existed as far back as 1900 and played sides from neighbouring districts in much the same manner of today. This went into recess during the 1940s, the club recommencing activities only a few years ago. In 1929 a tennis club was formed at Clydebank, using the school grounds as headquarters, and this functioned until the late 1940s. Cricket was another popular sport among the earliest residents, many an exciting match being played against sides from Wairoa, Hurumua, Mohaka, and so on. A match, Te Kapu versus Clyde, was recorded as early as 1876. A rifle club was formed in 1902 and by 1905 had a membership of 27 with Mr. Powdrell as president. Matches were held four times a year, as well as engagements against neighbouring clubs. Martin Chapman, father of George and Cecil, was a crack rifle shooter, several times taking part in the “Queen’s Fifty”.
Marching was most popular during the 1930s. The Frasertown “Inter-house” team was a most competent group. In 1938 it won the overall championship points for Wairoa, in 1939 winning the marching section. In 1948 a marching team was formed, and competed successfully at Napier and Gisborne, under the guiding hand of Mr Wyn Whitehead.
During the 1930s also, basketball came to the fore in the local district. The Waiau basketball team won the Wairoa district championship on many occasions, the very mention of its name being enough to strike fear into any would-be opponents. At the opening of the new Wairoa bridge it was honoured by being invited to play in a curtain-raiser game. The team wound up its activities in 1941 with assets amounting to £12 6s. With accumulated interest a sum of £22 was handed over and invested in the community hall at the time of its construction.
Hockey, too, had its day. During the 1920s Frasertown boasted a team, with Mrs. A. H. H. Unwin, and teachers Misses McLeod and Goldstone being among its most prominent players.
Strange as it may seem, about our national game little written evidence can be found. It is certain that Rugby was played in Frasertown well before 1900 and the club has always been known as Waiau. Concerning its strength, and deeds in its early life, however, little is known. During the 1914-18 War the club was in recess, but was recommenced at the close, and took part regularly in the Wairoa competition. Mei Mei Edwards recalls for us a time in 1924 when he was returning home from a scrub cutting job. The club coach hailed him from a paddock to join a team to play at a seven-a side tourney in Wairoa. Scratching around further, they conscripted the services of
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Arnie Beckett, Harold Beckett, Harold Lawton, Arthur Steed, Heck Couper, and a couple of others, entered a team and swept all before them. The Waiau juniors also won on the same day. No All Blacks filled the team’s ranks but several, including Paul Beattie, Dave Lawton, Hector Couper and Eddie Single, forced their way into the Hawke’s Bay side. In 1925 Dave Lawton, Hector Couper and Mei Mei Edwards were members of a Wairoa fifteen which walloped the Hawke’s Bay Shield side 31-28.
About 1930 a Drama Club was formed. This functioned for a short while, with Mrs. A. H. H. Unwin, the Nashes (hotel prop.) Arnie Beckett, Mr. Bird, and Miss Gleaves (teachers) being enthusiastic dramatists. In 1931 a play, “The Lift,” produced by Mrs. Unwin, ran for two nights in Frasertown and one in Wairoa. Proceeds from the latter performance were given to the new Wairoa Dental Clinic.
For those who yearned for the night life the village provided an adequate and varied fare. Many of the earlier functions were held not unusually, either in connection with, or in the school building. The Hawke’s Bay Herald of 11/1/1875 has this to say – “The School at Frasertown, or Te Kapu closed on Tuesday 1st with a tea fight, as it is commonly called, which was well attended by both young and old. A Magic Lantern exhibition was arranged in the evening for the children and also a dance for the older folk. The latter, I hear, were kept up till about 1 o’clock in the morning”. During the 1890s reference is made in the school log book to both Mr. Smith’s and Mr. Parker’s hall where concerts and dances were held. “Parker’s” hall was, of course, in use right up till a few years ago. After opening their bakery and store in 1911, the Phillips Bros., Bob and Len, built a hall adjacent to the shop. Both this and Parker’s Hall were used for dances, concerts, and so on, Parker’s Hall on occasions being used as a supper room. With the advent of moving pictures, Frasertown residents revelled in the luxury of two picture theatres. Gillespie and Clough showed films weekly in Phillip’s Hall, while Monty Tunnicliffe had an opposition show in Parker’s Hall. Power for the projectors was provided by petrol or diesel engines and breakdowns were frequent, but not frustrating. Patrons simply filed out of one hall to take up their seats at the show opposite. Music for Messrs. Gillespie and Clough’s exhibition was often provided by Miss Elsie Phillips at the organ.
One may well ponder about the reasons for the disappearance of all these clubs and functions. With the growth of transport, the provision of better communications, the growth of Wairoa as a centre, etc. such a development was perhaps inevitable. Such richness of living may never return to our village. However we still boast a thriving football club, tennis club and indoor bowls club. An effort is being made to revive a girls marching team. Till a few years ago, a very active youth club met regularly. As part of the jubilee celebrations, a group of young people are practising exotic dancing and developing Maori culture. I have enough confidence in our young people to hope that these pursuits will continue long after our Centenary celebrations are concluded.
THE CHURCH.
Before the arrival of the European settlers in Frasertown, there was no doubt some missionary work in the area. As has been stated the Maori was probably introduced to wheat and maize growing through the work of missions. From 1841, the work of the Rev. Williams, and later the Rev. James Hamlin, had influence among the Maoris. A Roman Catholic missionary, Father Baty, passed through Frasertown in 1841 en route from the Lake.
From the outset the people of Frasertown gave thought to their spiritual life. In describing the meeting to arrange for the building of a schoolhouse in 1868, the Hawke’s Bay Herald of February 5th had this to say: “The chairman explained the many advantages to be derived from having a public room, which could also be used for religious purposes of every denomination in the evening.”
On 12/5/1876 the same paper notes that “The Sunday services at Te Kapu are much improved since the arrival of a harmonium”. Where these services were held is anybody’s guess, perhaps in a building specially set aside for the purpose, but more probably in the schoolroom. In 1890, Mr. J. Couper was thanked for his assistance with the Frasertown services, the trouble he takes with the choir and in many other ways; also the choir and Mrs. Gosnell for presiding at the organ. Singing is good and the service is
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hearty. In 1892, two services a month were being held at Frasertown.
The church was built in 1893 and services were always well attended. In 1903, Mr. I. E. Taylor of Burnside, was honoured for his work as a vestryman and member of the synod. He also did great work in the Frasertown Sunday School. In 1913, the Frasertown parochial district was set up. The land next to the church was bought from Mr. T. J. Tunks. Officers elected were Messrs. A. E. Beckett, S. G. Stacey, L. J. Plank, F. I. Couper, and R. H. Phillips. Frasertown as a separate district ended in 1920.
FRASERTOWN INTERHOUSE TEAM, 1938.
Winners of Championship Points.
Back Row (l. to r.). – N. Middleton, P. Beckett, B. Beckett, D. Hughes, M. Taylor, L. Lambert, P. Unwin.
Front Row (l. to r.). – R. Middleton, D. Beckett, R. Green, D. Unwin, T. Single, J. Unwin, Instructor, H. Beckett (Sen.).
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COLONEL JAMES FRASER
Born Nova Scotia, 1841, died at Tauranga in 1870, James Fraser from whom our township derives its name, packed into his 29 years a life full of daring action and meritous [meritorious] service to his country.
Descended from Simon Fraser Lord Lovatt, a highland chieftain of some repute, James Fraser’s forebears emigrated to Nova Scotia during the closing years of the 19th century.
On attaining the proper age, Colonel Fraser received from the Colonial authorities nomination to the Imperial Service. Joining the army he served with distinction in India as Lieutenant and Adjutant of the 73rd Regiment. Desirous of seeing active service, he sold his commission with the intention of joining the north in the war against the Southern states of America. Foiled by the abrupt termination of the war, he emigrated to N.Z. where he quickly found employment congenial to his military tastes. He soon afterwards received a commission as Captain of the military settlers in the province of Hawke’s Bay. Faced with an almost disorganised force, he quickly transformed them into a well-disciplined, efficient, fighting unit. Fraser’s “fighting fifty” quickly achieved deserved notoriety for its gallant exploits. His personal bravery and solicitude for the men under his command earned their undying respect and admiration.
He led successful forays against the Hauhaus at Pa Kairomiromi, Kauwakauwa, and Poverty Bay. At one period he was even called to Christchurch to curb a possible Finian uprising! His very presence in that town suppressed any Irish insurgency. He was then ordered to Wairoa to keep the Ureweras in check. With Frasertown as his headquarters, he pursued Te Kooti and his band and successfully engaged him at various points between Waikaremoana, Ruakaturi, and Frasertown. In collaboration with loyal Maoris under Ihaka Whaanga and Pitiera Kopu, Colonel Fraser played a deciding role in keeping Wairoa safe from the murderous intent of the rebel chief and his followers.
Gallant, high-spirited, and courageous to a fault, Colonel Fraser passed away at Tauranga on 10th March, 1870, following an attack of typhoid fever.
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THE BEGINNING AND END OF AN ERA – 1968
At right: The first Dept. Bus run from Clydebank.
Back row: Louise Wilson, Laurie Crispin, Michael Taylor.
Front row: Karen Taylor, Helen Wilson, Anne Marie Taylor, Graham Hole.
Teacher Driver: Ross Macdonald.
Below: The last Kiwi Bus run to Clydebank.
Back row: Michael Taylor, Louise Wilson, Laurie Crispin.
Front row: Shelley Taylor, Helen Wilson, Anne Marie Taylor, Karen Taylor.
Drive: Wynne Whitehead.
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THE SCHOOL
Due to the paucity of written records, the documentation of the early history of the school has been a fairly difficult undertaking, and although the facts set down are for the most part fully substantiated, there are some areas, particularly between the years 1868 and 1886, where the story is based on educated supposition. By and large, the history is a chronological one, with backdating and elaboration where the facts are of general and intriguing interest.
The first mention of a school in Frasertown is found in the Hawke’s Bay Herald of 25/2/68. As this is a date of supreme importance for our celebrations, the extract from the paper is quoted in full –
“A meeting was held on Wednesday evening last at the spacious store of Messrs. Mayo and Gray at the military settlers’ township of Pakowhai, for the purpose of considering the subject of erecting a public schoolroom. Mr. Beckett was voted in the chair.
“The chairman having opened the meeting in a few brief remarks explained the many advantages to be derived from having a public room, which would serve as a schoolroom during the day, which could also be used for religious purposes of every denomination, and as reading room for the benefit of settlers in the evening.
“Mr. Marsh proposed and Mr. Watson seconded – ‘That a subscription be opened for the purpose of defraying the necessary expenses for building the said room.’ All present then came forward in a most liberal manner under existing circumstances and a good round sum was collected before the close of the meeting. In consequence of the shortness of the notice, the meeting was not so well attended as we might have wished. It was then proposed by Mr. Mayo and seconded by Mr. Stacey – ‘That the settlement should have a proper name.’ After a somewhat long discussion, the name of Windsor was agreed upon and was carried unanimously. (Was there ever such a place with such a variety of proposed names?)
“Before the close of the meeting several settlers wished to know what province the township belonged. For all we hear we belong to nobody. It seems that Hawke’s Bay will have nothing to do with us and Auckland the same; but perhaps before long they might be glad to recognise us. None of the surveyors that have yet been here have been able to properly define the boundary of the province, but we should think that, properly speaking, we belong to Hawke’s Bay for all duties go into her coffers.
“The meeting here closed with a vote of thanks to the chairman.”
To date there has been found no written evidence that the above intention was carried out. However, as the district history has pointed out, by 1868, there were a considerable number of military settlers living in the area, enough at least to warrant the commencement of a “spacious store”. That these people deemed it advisable to build a public room to be used as a school, convinces us that there were sufficient numbers of children in the area to make such a project worthwhile. As was customary in those times children were often educated in rooms not built for that particular purpose, but usually began their schooldays in convenient farmhouses, tutored by teachers engaged by the community, the teacher levying a fee for each pupil taught. It has been deemed probable therefore that even if the intention of the Pakowhai meeting was not carried out, some sort of arrangement for educating the children along the lines mentioned immediately above was being pursued.
Although one can hazard only a rough guess as to what this early school, and the quality of education to be obtained therein was like, we do have some idea of where it was sited. From conversations with their parents several of our senior citizens have indicated that a school once existed on the site of or approximating Mr. C. Mildon’s residence. Sometime during the early 1870s a building was either acquired or constructed on the football ground, adjacent to the present school residence.
The first official documentation concerning the Frasertown school appears in the Auckland Provincial Council Journal 1873-4, where a return for the year ended 31st March 1873, includes Frasertown School. The teacher named is Mrs. McDonnell who had charge of 35 children. The next mention occurs in the Auckland Provincial Gazette of 7th May, 1873. This notes the declaration of
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the Frasertown Education district, comprising all those lands within a five mile radius and calls a meeting to elect a committee at the school on Saturday, 24th May 1873, at 4 p.m. The Auckland Provincial Council Journal of 1874 notes that Mrs. McDonnell was still in charge, but the roll had risen by now to 50 pupils. The average roll however is only 28. In 1875, Mrs. Baker succeeded to the position of Headmistress, with the roll remaining almost the same and still with a low average attendance figure of 28. As many of the children had to cross rivers (on occasions several times) and walk or ride long distances over little better than clay tracks, the attendance figures for Frasertown, and indeed many New Zealand country schools, suffered considerably until well into the 20th century. Moreover, well into the 1930s it was regarded as a lawful excuse to be absent from school when parents required the children to help with chores about the farm at such times as harvesting, shearing and so on. Taking into consideration the huge economic hurdles which had to be overcome by our pioneers, it is little wonder that children were required at many time to help swell the family coffers.
Right up to the present day the country school as a focal point for community activities has been a factor characterising New Zealand way of life. Parent interest in and solicitude for their school has been, and still is, a distinguishing feature of New Zealand education. One sees this very early in the life of our school. The Hawke’s Bay Herald of January 1st, 1875, reports, “The school at Frasertown, or Te Kapu closed on Tuesday last with a ‘tea fight’ as it is commonly called, which was well attended by both young and
SCHOOL GROUP, 1898.
Back Row (l. to r.). – Bob Phillips, Norman Phillips, Norman Rigby, Geo. Arundel, Harold Taylor, Colin Rigby, Arthur Ramlose, Charlie Goldstone, Herbert Taylor, Barney Goodall, Ella Cluney, Mrs L. Gosnell (Head Teacher).
Second Row (l. to r.). – Miss V. Goldstone (Pupil Teacher), K. Anderson, L. Beckett, G. Beckett, N. Beckett, A. Smith, M. Stacey, O. Beckett, E. Beckett, G. Rigby, T. Fletcher, -, G. Smith.
Front Row (l. to r.). – C. Stacey, F. Evans, C. Rigby, T. Stacey, -, -, -, E. Arundel, -, -, -, A. Stacey, G. Phillips, L. Phillips.
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old. A Magic Lantern exhibition was arranged in the evening for the children and also a dance for the older folk.”
Sweet benevolence did not always prevail, however, especially when the teacher became unacceptable to certain sections of the community. At such times parent interest became perhaps a little overbearing. The Hawke’s Bay Herald of 15/2/1876 has this to say about Te Kapu – “Rather a stormy meeting was held here the other night in the schoolroom; it appears that two or three of a party had met for the purpose of quietly dismissing their teacher but their benevolent designs were happily frustrated by the unexpected arrival of an opposition party who were in the majority, and who consequently carried their point and saved the teacher his billet. It appears to us that in all these small assemblies where two or three gather together, that, rather than go on the principle of letting brotherly love continue they take ‘Guerre a I’outrance’ for their motto – sad is it not?”
As is the case today the problems of finance loomed largely among the residents of the districts. Presumably all members of the community above a certain age were asked to contribute a poll tax for maintaining the school. In 1876 the Te Kapu correspondent for the Hawke’s Bay Herald has this to say in the edition of May 12th. “Education rate. Considerable dissatisfaction is evinced by the junior ‘lords of creation’ – those of course who are still in a state of single blessedness – at being compelled to pay the education rate. They maintain that not being blessed with a partner for life, and having no ‘smaller blessings’ to cheer their existence, they should be free from the unjust poll-tax, etc.” A year later the same paper records over £100 taken at the Wairoa Fancy Bazaar, part of the proceeds being devoted to the Te Kapu School.
Up till 1876 the Frasertown School was apparently under the jurisdiction of the Auckland Provincial Education Authorities. Until 1878 as seems characteristic of the early history of Frasertown, names, district boundaries, responsibility, etc. appeared to be in a state of flux. Although in 1876 the Hawke’s Bay Education Report lists the Frasertown School Committee (B. Glass – chairman, Brentson, Amunsen, O. Christophersen, J. Tonks, W. Couper, A. Steed, J. Kent, H. Walker) in a Hawke’s Bay Herald report of September 26th, 1877, there: appears notice of discussions as to whether Cook County, including Frasertown School, should be joined to Hawke’s Bay as an Education District.
In 1877, the Education Act was passed, putting the New Zealand system on a more regular footing. The following year, in April, the Hawke’s Bay Education Board report states that, “The schools in the Cook County – viz. Gisborne, Matawhero, Ormond, and Frasertown, and formerly connected with the Auckland Board were transferred to this Board in accordance with the second schedule of the Act.” The following Hawke’s Bay Herald reports of the same year indicate clearly some confusion over the jurisdiction and naming of the area. –
3/3/1878: “Petition was read from 11 householders in or near Frasertown, praying board to convene a public meeting for purpose of fixing boundaries of a district to be called Frasertown School District, and to elect a committee thereof. Secretary directed to make enquiry about position of Frasertown district and number of children residing in it requiring education”.
18/3/1878: “Letter from householders in township of Frasertown, requesting board to convene a meeting to be held in the schoolhouse, to fix boundaries and elect a school committee, Secretary’s report: Mr. Witty states 40 children in district – school in reality Te Kapu School under different name.”
At the close of the year the teacher is named as Mr. F. Taylor with a salary of £63 5s, but the number of pupils is not given. As later events will show there was no board-built school residence as such. However the board recognised some responsibility towards the teacher’s accommodation as, on November 5th, 1878, a letter was received from the Frasertown School Committee, requesting an allowance for the teacher’s house rent. It was decided that the letter should stand over until the board considered the general question of teachers’ house rents. Exactly where the teacher resided at this stage is anybody’s guess, probably in a cottage made available by the people of the district, as was the case with Mrs. Gosnell in a later period.
Schooling continued in the Schoolhouse next to the present residence section until the 1880s, when the school committee began to demand some action over the state of the
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building. The. Education Board minutes of 19/4/1881: “The following correspondence was read: – From the Frasertown School Committee stating that it would not be worthwhile to expend further good timber in lining the schoolhouse as it was in such a delapidated [dilapidated] condition, and enquiring whether it would not be possible to obtain a grant for building a new school.- The inspector stated the school was really in a delapidated condition.- It was decided to give the matter attention when the board had funds”. At the Board Meeting of 24/11/1882, the inspector reported that: “The Frasertown School was disgracefully overcrowded, and some of the younger children had been sent away as the vitiated atmosphere was absolutely dangerous to their health”. Eventually £300 was allowed for building a new schoolhouse which was completed in 19th October, 1883. With several minor and major additions this was the building built north to south across the present baths site, which was attended by many of our ex-pupils gathered here today, and was finally replaced by the present school building. The schoolhouse condemned for pupil habitation was “remodelled” as a residence for the master!!! A request for a scullery for the residence was turned dawn, as was a refund for £6 10s paid by the committee for extras, for the residence.
While negotiations were proceeding for the erection of a new schoolhouse, a staffing crisis was mounting. The chairman, together with a number of residents, sought the removal of the teacher and petitioned the Education Board to do so. As such a procedure was considered unjustified by the remainder of the school committee, there appeared a violent split in this body. At one stage the chairman was asked for his resignation by the committee. After several letters to the board from both parties, the unfortunate teacher was finally given his “marching orders” by the board, without so much as an opportunity to answer charges laid against his conduct. A rather whimsical report appeared in the Hawke’s Bay Weekly Courier of 5/8/1881 – “The Frasertown School emeute is still to the fore. I believe if the chairman and the teacher were to talk the affair quietly over a bottle of real Scotch
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, 1902.
Back Row (l. to r.). – C. Stacey, E. Arundel, C. Rigby, C. Goldstone, -, N. Rigby, G. Rigby, -, L. Oldham, W. Beckett.
Third Row (l. to r.). – G. Anderson, C. Arundel, Koau, R. Potahi, T. Stacey, B. Goodall, C. Beckett, -.
Second Row (l. to r.). -, J. Hallet, I. Beckett, O. Beckett, M. Middleton, G. Rigby, M. Wilson, A. Middleton, M. Davey, N. Beckett, M. Stacey, K. Anderson, W. Jenkins, J. Middleton.
Front Row (l. to r.). – R. Arundel, J. Forsyth, M. Couper, A. Stacey, D. Torr, P. Couper, G. Smith, B. Gibson, -, E. Beckett, E. Torr, -, G. Beckett, L., Torr, A. Stacey
Teachers (l. to r.). – Anson, H. Cato (Pupil Teacher), Mrs. L. Gosnell (Head Teacher).
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Whiskey the little matter could be settled quietly in the course of a sitting.”
Subject to his presenting himself for examination and passing, Mr. A. L. D. Fraser was appointed to take the place of the above as master of the school. In 1883 a Mr. Stanley was recommended for the position of Master. In fact he had resigned from a position in the High School to do so. The inspector stated that, although Mr. Stanley had passed a good examination in literary subjects in connection with the law, he was uncertificated and, as two certificated women had applied, they should take precedence over the former. On 17/7/1883 a Mrs. Thomas Hallett was appointed as mistress.
In the year 1886 the keeping of “log books” was commenced in most schools throughout New Zealand and from this point the history of the school is almost fully documented.
On 1/5/1886 Mr. Percival Bear took charge, being followed in quick succession by Henry L. Roberts. Both men reported the school as in a fair condition but the house uninhabitable. The inspector promised that the board would lease a residence and accordingly they applied to rent Mrs. Goldstone’s cottage for a year.
In March 1887 Miss Regina A. Pirani (later daughter-in-law to Mrs. Gosnell) took charge and served until 1889. There were 47 pupils on the roll at this time, quite a handful for a lone woman. Some idea of the availability of education at this time, may be gained from the fact that during her term of office a boy, aged 16, one Herbert Kent, was admitted to the school. He had not been to school for seven years. Nine Maori pupils were admitted in 1888, evidencing a clear intention on the part of the native population to gain equal status with their Pakeha neighbours. End-of-year entertainments were common at this time, usually held to raise money for prizes, etc. At the close of the school year in 1887 Miss Pirani was requested to arrange a concert for January 2nd., 1888.
Teaching at that time was certainly no bed of roses. Together with gross overcrowding, many were the other trials faced by Miss Pirani. The room was often used in the evenings for political meetings, entertainments, and “Band of Hope” gatherings. Mud and candle grease liberally splattered the floor, the fire was disarranged, as were desks and books. Cigar ends were suffed [stuffed] into inkwells and ashes scattered over the floor. On wet days rain poured in through windows and roof. The caretaker’s contract only allowed her to sweep every other day, and the school’s lavatories were allowed to lapse into a deplorable state. Cattle often broke through the school’s fences and many a time the children were engaged in driving them out. Some relief was provided in 1887, with the appointment of a pupil teacher, Miss Bertha Torr. A single-roomed building, and division of the classes into senior and junior grades, was effected by draping a large curtain through the centre portion of the room.
On 20/5/1889 Mrs. Louisa Gosnell began her long tenure of office. Immediately upon appointment Mrs. Gosnell took positive steps to encourage the attendance of Maori pupils, a course of action later frowned upon by not a few of the Pakeha residents of Frasertown. On several occasions the teacher made visitations to the “Mill”, to get support from the Maoris. The inspector, Mr. Henry Hill, advocated the placing on the committee of a Maori parent which he said would give them a tangible stake in the school. In the face of strong opposition in some quarters Maori pupils gradually increased in numbers, but it was not until some time after the turn of the century that they were universally regarded as having a rightful place in the local school.
Throughout her service here Mrs. Gosnell was plagued by buildings and maintenance problems. Generally speaking the committee did its best but it appeared to be a shortage of time and money at the root of most difficulties. Faults in the school building itself were the main worry. Mr. Hill advocated selling the “old school-cum-residence” to raise finance for painting and repairs to the building. In 1891 the school was actually painted, desks were varnished and “screwed down” on a grant of £15 from the board. Shortly afterwards a porch was added to the east side of building. This, the inspector said, would serve for the children to eat their lunches in, a as a cloakroom, and as an extra classroom as the occasion demanded. Right up to the year 1905, however, the school remained an uncomfortable draughty building, certainly no fit place to properly carry out the business of education. Other improvements during the last decade of the 19th century were effected by the school committee. An old “closet” was shifted to the dividing wall
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BOYS’ GROUP, 1912 (Teacher, Mr. L. Plank).
GIRLS’ GROUP, 1912
Back Row (l. to r.). – C. Beckett, E. Phillips, L. Forsyth, M. Beckett, D. Beckett, B. Johnson, -, L. Beckett,
Second Row (l. to r.). – T. Johnson, G. Johnson, H. Couper, C. Couper, P. Couper, -, -, -, -, I. Forsyth, J. Single.
Front Row (l. to r.). – E. Oldham, N. Elwin, -, K. Torbett, F. Couper, E. Elwin, -, -, R. Elwin, K. Beckett.
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(separate boys and girls playing area) and remodelled as a woodshed. Briars, brambles, and poplar trees were removed from the school section. Fences were improved and concrete was laid near the main school door. A bell was donated and mounted by Mr. Parker and a horizontal bar was erected for physical education. The children complained about glare on sunny days, so sheets of iron were nailed over the windows to counter this. Frequent sporting clashes took place against sides from Wairoa School. On 10/6/1895 the school lost to Wairoa at rugby because the latter side had “too many players”. Frasertown won the next game, after having been offered the reward of a set of cricket gear.
The end-of-year concerts continued to be held in “Parker’s Hall, Mr. Parker, often being praised for his efforts in making the function a success. Attendance continued to be a problem right through the 1890s, many pupils being reported for this fault.
Throughout her period here Mrs. Gosnell was assisted by a pupil teacher. Although the load for the headmistress’s shoulders was lightened the business of instructing the pupil teacher and seeing she maintained a reasonable standard of teaching was often an added burden. On 22/8/1889, under somewhat pathetic circumstances, Miss Bertha Torr died. Later Miss Eliza Taylor was engaged at a salary of 10s per week. In 1897 Miss V. Goldstone was appointed, followed on 20/7/1900 by Mr. Anson Cato. During this year Mrs. Gosnell completed 30 years’ service with the Hawke’s Bay Board, having previously taught at the Wairoa School.
John Kain commenced service here as head teacher in 1902. Mrs. Gosnell continued as assistant mistress until her marriage to Mr. Gardiner in 1904. Firm and uncompromising, Mr. Kain is remembered however by his few former pupils alive today, as a man of warmth and understanding, well endowed with all the talents of his profession. Seventy nine children were on the roll at this time, one third of whom were Maoris. Under his guidance the boys excelled at cricket, beating Wairoa School on several occasions. On 28/7/1905 tenders were called for the erection of a new schoolroom.
The school continued to make excellent progress after the appointment of Mr. Arthur W. Soundy on 5/2/1906. A teacher of rare talent and unbounded enthusiasm, Mr. Soundy spread his influence far beyond the confines of the classroom. In 1906 he led the School Cadet Corps to a win in the physical drill competition at the Wairoa Military Sports. He later took a squad of cadets to compete in Christchurch. In the same year the senior children moved into the new room (still in use as our present infant room).
Until the appointment of Mr. T. J. Plank in June, 1912, after Mr. Soundy’s relinquishing his post in December 1908, there followed in quick succession several periods of short headmasterships. On 28/3/1911 the first school residence was built, which building, with some alterations stands firm to this very day. Until this time the teacher had been domiciled in various cottages around the village, the most recent being in the section behind the old Marianne Dairy. During Mr. Plank’s time the average roll reached the highest on record to date – 107.
For most of the war years and immediately after, Miss Clara J. Brown was in charge of the school. Extreme difficulty was experienced, for obvious reasons, in engaging staff. At frequent times the head teacher had to cope with the whole school. On 5/2/1919 the “dual desk” era arrived with the provision of new school furniture. Up till this time the children sat at long wooden bench and stool arrangements firmly screwed to the floor, which permitted of no noise and movement, and allowed the best possible conditions for excellence of copperplate writing, drawing and figuring. At the close of the war, the school for a time was used as a hospital during the “flu” epidemic.
On 1/4/1921 Mr. M. Parker Smith was appointed headmaster followed in April, 1922, by Mr. F. G. Barnby. On 9/3/1923 the opening of the hydro-electricity scheme at Tuai by Governor General Fergusson coincided with the erection of the War Memorial in front of the residence section. The help of the school children in maintaining the lawn and gardens was solicited, in order that the young people would be constantly reminded of the debt we owe to those who served and gave their lives in the Great War.
On 4/5/1923 the first parents’ afternoon was held at the school. Members of the committee and many parents viewed displays of children’s work. These functions have continued and increased in scope up to the present day.
Infantile paralysis (poliomyelitis) reared
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its ugly head in 1925 the school being closed for three months. This dread disease was to interrupt schooling at frequent intervals until the birth of modern preventative drugs a few years ago.
Mr. A. W. Bird had charge of the school for seven years until the appointment of Mr. W. H. Craig in February, 1933. Although not the easiest of men to co-operate with, Mr. Craig is remembered by his pupils for the quality of his teaching, and high standards of scholastic attainment he expected from all the children under his charge. He was to serve the longest period here as headmaster – right up until he died in office in December, 1947, just after he was appointed to Clive School.
On 4/5/1943 the new school (present one) was commenced and the children moved into this five months later. On 9/8/1943 the first Home and School Association was formed. This was first known as the “Parents’ League.” Card evenings, concerts, etc. were held to raise money for equipment for the new school. Although for a time in recess, the Home and School Association has continued to play an important, if not an indispensible role, in the functioning of the school. ln close co-operation with the teachers of the school, the group has fostered “open days,” work exhibitions, educational evening functions, and so on, as well as providing much needed funds for vital school equipment. During recent years many of the essential expenses of running a school have been met from Home and School Association funds. During the late 1930s the school functioned without a committee, their offices being conducted by a pair of commissioners appointed by the Education Board.
Mr. Stan H. Webb, a popular and energetic figure, was appointed head teacher in February, 1948. A capable teacher. Mr. Webb also was a keen sportsman and fostered visits to and from neighbouring schools. Many opportunities were also taken to journey out of the classroom to places of educational significance. The Home and School Association prospered and many successful functions were held. Money poured into the school for the provision of new amenities. In addition to a film strip projector bought in Mr. Craig’s time a radio, loud speaker and microphone were added to the equipment. The School gained its fourth teacher on 1/2/1950, the detached room previously used as an art room, being utilised for accommodation.
During Mr. Webb’s time the first school bus run commenced, the teacher performing the service from Rangiahua in his own station wagon.
In September 1952, Mr. C. R. Black commenced duties. The School was provided with further amenities including a new typewriter. Most important of all perhaps was the construction of the school baths. At the particular time money was not readily forthcoming and Mr. Black became lit familiar figure “walking the roads” soliciting assistance for this most worthwhile project. His efforts were crowned with success and on 5/12/1953 voluntary labour completed this valuable amenity. During this time a local taxi service commenced transporting children from the Lake Road.
Mr. D. R. Hill succeeded to the position of headmaster in September, 1955. His three years of office saw a concrete strip laid in front of the school, a multiplex playground set procured, and a new garage erected at the residence.
A long and progressive period began with Mr. Allan Vugler’s appointment in May, 1957. A co-operative school committee and enterprising Home and School Association saw parent interest in the school reach a very high level. Deserving of mention in this respect are the efforts of Mrs. Vugler, who worked very hard in gaining parent support for the school. Among the amenities provided during this period were a “multiplay” infant set, blackout curtains for Room 4, a sandpit, horizontal bars, projection screen, a new Gestetner, and extra concrete to complete the tennis court. A bell and bell post were donated in memory of Mr. J. Knox. a former pupil of the school. Extensions were made to the detached schoolroom as well as additions to the residence. On 6/8/1962 the present modern toilet block was opened. Important visitors during the period were Mr. Skoglund, Minister of Education, on 4/12/1958, and more recently Governor General Fergusson, during Mr. Carter’s short term as headmaster, on 1/3/1965. A record roll of 146 was reached on 4/9/1961, just five pupils short of meriting a further teacher.
The present head teacher, Mr. D. Crofskey, took up his appointment in May, 1965. With the ready co-operation of staff and parents the school has continued to function progressively, as a live and vital force in the
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community. More equipment has been added, including gymnastic apparatus, concrete additions, book and other teaching apparatus, and on 16/2/1967 a filtration plant for the school baths was opened.
An attractive, modern school, set in spacious well kept grounds, with all the equipment a school could hope to possess, Frasertown residents may well be proud of a century’s achievements.
WAIAU BASKETBALL TEAM, about 1930.
From l. to r. – Doris Single, Rona Unwin, Allie Chapman, Lovie Hema, Judy Jenkins, Tuppy Morrell, Marjorie Taylor, Nancy Taylor, Leo Single.
FRASERTOWN MARCHING TEAM, 1948.
Back Row (l. to r.). – Ngaire Dunn, Flo Evans, Alice McDonald, Colleen Grant, Charmaine Grant, Gwen Maxwell, Carmen Grant, Wynne Whitehead (Coach).
Front Row (l. to r.). – Betty Morrell, Pirie Paul, Dot Gosling, Rosalie Maxwell, Rene Morrell.
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FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, STDS. 1-3, 1934.
Back Row (l. to r.). – B. Marsh, W. Arundel, D. Goldstone, J. Craig, F. Lambert, H. Johnson.
Third Row (l. to r.). – J. Gunnell, F. Davey, J. Hikawai, D. Hakopa, J. Keefe, W. Lambert, H. Newton, M. Karauria, T. Svensen.
Second Row (l. to r.). – R. Middleton, P. Unwin, M. Hiko, A. Roberts, E. Tipu, I. Hakopa, F. Johnson, Z. Stewart, S. Unwin.
Front Row (l. to r.). – T. Goldstone, W. Phillips, D. Arundel, M. Luscombe, A. Kapene, J. Gamble.
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, STDS. 4-6, 1934.
Back Row (l. to r.). – B. Simon, J. Johnson, M. Compton, Jim Brownlie, J. Davey, A. Huata, J. Brownlie, O. Howard.
Third Row (l. to r.). – R. Johnson, D. Kaimoana, L. Lambert, J. Beckett, E. Gunnell, A. Lambert, B. Beckett. -, E. Brownlie, A. Compton.
Second Row (l. to r.). – J. Taunoa, -, S. Beckett, N. Middleton, V. Forsyth, D. Unwin, P. Beckett, -, I. Green, K. Gunnell, R. Tipu.
Front Row (l. to r.). – J. Johnson, T. Wairama, E. Compton, -, A. Phillips, -, W. Craig, R. Svensen, -.
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FRASERTOWN SCHOOL PRIMERS, 1938.
Back Row (l. to r.). – T. Tuahine, H. Johnson, Wi Marsh, – Tipu, S Carroll, B. Tauhoa, -, D. Winiata, D. Te Amo, H. Tipu, C. Mildon, J. Marsh, M. Mildon.
Second Row (l. to r.). – H. Thompson, K. Marsh, S. Grant, M. Johnson, L. Johnson, J. Paul, M. Hura, R. Jones, R. Tipuna, P. Newton, M. Tuahine, M. Crombie, W. Harrison.
Front Row (l. to r.). – D. Unwin, D. Maxwell, B. Paul, B. Nissen, R. Maxwell, P. Phillips, A. McDonald, J. Phillips, N. Mildon, R. Vincent, A. Hill.
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, STDS. 1 & 2, 1938.
Back Row (l. to r.). – K. Mildon, H. McDonald, B. Edwards, C. Marsh, B. Tuahine, J. Tipu, W. Te Amo, D. Lambert, W. Morrell, J. Johnson.
Second Row (l. to r.). – M. Kihi, M. Johnson, B. Carroll, R. Taunoa, C. Grant, M. King, M. McDonald, P. Blomfield, V. Vincent, M. Phillips, J. Arundel, J. Phillips.
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CLYDEBANK SCHOOL
Through almost a complete absence of written evidence it is most regrettable that the history of the Clydebank School is severely contracted. I have no doubt, however, that ex-pupils and teachers present today will be able to relive in conversation those experiences which made their schooldays truly memorable.
In 1910 with typical farsightedness the settlers on the freshly divided Clydebank Block set aside a section as a possible site for a school. From that time until the Clydebank School opened, the children rode horseback to the school at Frasertown.
In 1910 Mr. G. Wilson wrote to School Inspector Bird urging the construction of a school at Clydebank. By 1921, while still awaiting Education Board action, the residents decided to start a school, which was opened in Mr. Penty’s residence on May 21st., with a roll of 17 pupils. In 1927, the Education Board constructed a one-roomed school-house. The pupils moved into this building in the third term and the school continued to operate with a roll, averaging about 15 or so, until it closed with a roll of five pupils in 1941. Since that time the children have attended the Frasertown School. Until the Kiwi Bus run commenced in 1945 the children rode horses or were transported in parents’ cars. Recently a departmental bus service has replaced the Kiwi service.
Throughout its short life the Clydebank School, although not numerously endowed
PENTY’S HOUSE.
The First Clydebank School opened here in 1921.
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with pupils, was under the charge of capable and regularly appointed teachers. The following taught at the school during its short history – (parentheses show commencing date): Miss Dorothy Torr (1921), Miss D. E. McLean (1925), Miss E. E. Beckett (1928), Miss Netty R. Black ()1929), Mr. Tom Harvey (1930), Mr. R. J. Pattison (1931), Miss E. H. Steers (1933), Miss Fleming (1935), Mr. H. Macaskill (1936), Miss B. Morgan (1939), Miss P. A. Peebles (1941).
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, STDS. 1 & 2, 1959.
Back Row (l. to r.). – W. Te Whata, G. Hole, B. Brownlie, J. Brownlie, M. Nissen, J. Te Whata
Second Row (l. to r.). – J. Tahuri, N. Thompson, B. Hema, O. Hema, E. Morrell, M. Munro, C. Tohiariki, B. Simpson, Mr. R. Paku (Teacher).
Front Row (l. to r.). – Y. Cook, M. Tuahine, V. Marsh, M. Anderson, H. Tahuri, S. Nolan, L. McKenzie, T. Roberts.
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ON LOOKING BACK
Some childhood memories seem to stand out from all the rest of the experiences which go to make up that most important and cherished part of our lives. No doubt you will recall many as you meet again those valued friends of days gone by. A few such memories have been related to me and I submit them for your interest and enjoyment.
AN EMBARRASSING MOMENT.
It happened in 1904. Quite suddenly an earthquake shook the school building. Whether in bravado or sheer fright, I cannot recall which, while the rest of the class made their exit via the customary channel, I decided to leave through the top window (at that time the bottom windows were secured) To my horror, as I leapt to the ground, there came a tearing sound and half of my trousers were left fixed to the window catch.- (Bob. Phillips, Frasertown) .
FIRST AID IN THE BUSH.
While on his way to a patient on the Lake Road, Dr. Ross of Wairoa called at Felix Goullett’s place to rest. He evidenced all signs of a sore posterior after the long horse ride. Observing this Felix said he had just the remedy. Producing a bag of flour, he told the good doctor to slip his trousers
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, STDS. 3 & 4, 1959.
Back Row (l. to r.). – G. Maxwell, G. Trafford, N. Chapman, F. Rigby, M. McKinnon, P. Chapman, H. Tahuri, T. Davey, A. Browne.
Third Row (I. to r.). – E. Tuahine, A. Tipoki, D. Munro, P. Anderson, G. Oldham, W. Tohiariki, A. Chapman, K. Howard, J. Brown.
Second Row (l.to r.). – H. Tipuna, B. Adsett, H. Davey, L. Nolan, –, J. Brown, A. Brownlie, J. Tipoki, D. Newlands, Mr. G. Davis (Teacher).
Front Row (l. to r.). – L. Paul, L. Price, H. Campbell, S. Walker, A. McKenzie, V. Jenkins, M. Tipuna, S. Browne, L. Vugler, B. Rigby.
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down and sit in the flour. In no time, a cure was effected and the bag put away for its proper use.- (Bob. Phillips, Frasertown).
GETTING TO SCHOOL.
Many vivid memories of schooldays at Clydebank seem to centre around the journey to get there for most of us. We lived three miles from school and, like nearly all children in those days, depended on horses all the time we were at school and believe me, some of them were an odd lot. Spills were rather frequent, especially in our apprentice years, but, except for two bad ones, most were soon forgotten. Frost shining on a shed en route was nearly our undoing more than once, as our horses refused to pass with their small riders. However returning home was seldom any trouble, as the horses quite approved and dashed madly along, especially the last half mile. Our neighbour tells how she usually retired inside, shutting the door, being sure we would come to grief daily.
The last two years of our schooling, Miss Beckett was the teacher living at her home in Frasertown. She came in her old “tin liz” so brought some families with her viz. Oldhams, Marshes, Walkers as she passed, and also the Simons from the Mill, who had started at Clydebank when their parents were cutting manuka on a farm out here. – (Mrs. N. Munro, Clydebank).
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL. FORMS 1 & 2. 1959.
Back Row (I. to r.). – J. Davey, G. Chamberlain, R. Morell, W. McKinnon, R. Pattison, -, M. Trafford.
Third Row (I. to r.). – R. McKenzie, L. Nissen, -, -, L. Marsh, I. Roberts, B. Marsh, K. Te Kahu. W. Tohiariki, R. Trafford.
Second Row (I. to r.). – R. Tuahine, K. Tipuna, K. Browne, I. Brown, L. Brown, S. Jenkins, G. Waite, R. Brownlie, -, Mr. A. Vugler (Head Teacher).
Front Row (I. to r.). -, -, B. Waite, Q. Waihape, T. Tipuna, C. Cooper, G. Browne, R. Winiata, G. Campbell.
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PERILOUS JOURNEY.
Horse transport provided the ingredients for many an early mishap. One day the Chapman brothers, George and Cecil, were driving home from school in the horse buggy. In front of them a Maori boy suddenly slung an oilskin coat over his shoulder. The usually quiet horse shied, tipping buggy and occupants into the ditch. Cecil was knocked unconscious and head teacher and district nurse were summoned. The teacher, who had reprimanded Cecil at some time during the day, felt such pangs of remorse that he granted the whole school the following half-day off. (Mrs. Cecil Chapman, Frasertown).
CAUGHT IN THE ACT.
One episode which happened during my schooldays is still very clear in my mind. During the winter, cords of wood were needed to feed the open fireplaces which heated classrooms in those days. In the summer months, the wood had a habit of disappearing, so arrangements were made to store it in a neighbouring section for safe keeping. One particular autumn six or seven boys were bringing the wood back to the school and had to pass a barrow load of apples from which they helped themselves. Suddenly there was a cry “Here comes Mrs. …” Hands instinctively flew behind their backs, only to find the lady of the house approaching from the rear. Result – a caning from the head teacher, Mr. Parker Smith.
Another vivid memory is the row upon row of bottles of all colours, shapes and sizes, collected by the children, and stacked along the front of the school. This was part of the 1914-18 War effort to offset the shortage of glass. – (George Single, Frasertown).
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, PRIMERS, 1959.
Back Row (I. to r.). – M. Nissen, P. Adsett, W. Marsh, D. Tahiariki. K. Brownlie, J. Morrell, T. Pohatu, W. Davey, P. Rigby, H. Marsh.
Second Row (I. to r.). – D. McKenzie, C. Te Whata, F. Cooper, R. Roberts, G. Davey, K. Price, M. Tahuri, M. Jenkins, R. Davey.
Front Row (l. to r.). – R. Rigby, M. Waihape, O. Marsh, W. Roberts, J. Pohatu, F. Winiata, J. Pegram, C. Kapene, S. McKenzie, N. Marsh.
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THE SCHOOL “LOG”
The school log book not only provides interesting and sometimes amusing reading, but also gives us some insight into the thought, customs, trends, etc. of the times to which the extracts belong.
November 2, 1887. Attendance only moderate. Frasers returned from Waikaremoana but several boys absent through shearing, etc. This absenteeism was to plague the teacher until well into the 20th Century, severity of weather being the principal cause.
March 21, 1887. (Inspection report). – I notice that the desks have been unfixed from the platform to which they were originally screwed down. The committee should see that the desks are again fixed, as the children are unable to do their drawing or writing on the desks in their present condition.
May 1, 1887. Chairman did not call at school as I expected, therefore did not get returns signed – will take them over tomorrow. In those days the committee had far more executive control than today.
June 17, 1887. Dismissed school for mid-winter holidays until July 9th. Dates of terms and holidays were different from today.
September 12. 1888. Special meeting of school committee to consider what action should be taken against a boy who wrote an indecent letter to one of the girls. The boy was present at the meeting but, as he confessed to the action, the teacher left the meeting. Punishment? Allowed to return to school but to have no communication with the rest of the pupils till March, 1889.
March 1, 1889. Received message from chairman saying if I wanted a holiday today for races to apply to him – did not apply. On many occasions subsequently holidays were granted for the Wairoa races.
October 1, 1889. A horse was caught in the barbed wire of the school fence and was cut in a shocking manner. Barbed wire is a barbarous invention!
November 14, 1889. A wandering musician was performing on a violin outside the school – invited him in to play a few tunes to the children. Gave him a florin for his trouble.
November 20, 1890. Do not expect inspector this week as the bar is bad and the sea is very rough. The steamer had to go back yesterday being uable [unable] to land either mail or passengers.
November 25, 1890. Received a note from Mrs. Taylor of Burnside stating that her little son Ernest had broken his collarbone on way to school and could not sit exam. Would the inspector pass him? On teacher’s recommendation he was passed.
January 22, 1891. The children seem insufferably dull. Nearly all the work done before Christmas was without avail as it has to be done again. The task of working up to the standards this year seems hopeless.
November 27, 1891. Mrs – complained that some of the girls had been gossiping about her. Mrs. – is continually making complaints about one thing or another.
March 9, 1893. I have continually to complain of children being late. They have always to be kept in. I do not like to cane them as it is probably not their own fault, and my soul revolts against punishing a child for the fault or neglect of another.
October 26, 1893. Tank dry. The boys have to carry water from the river.
June 11, 1894. Fire laid but would not burn. Wood too damp. Received a note from caretaker to say that, “Although it was her job to lay the fire, it was not her duty to make it burn.”
July 9, 1894. Messrs. Braithwaite and Beckett repaired the board fence between the boys’ and girls’ playgrounds which was almost down.
October 12, 1895. Cricket gear found in woodshed. Caretaker declines to allow such things to remain in school.
May 19, 1896. Letter from parent asking teacher to examine children’s hair. Teacher states that she had not seen the slightest indication of vermin in the hair of the children at school.
June 24, 1897. Attended court in Wairoa to give evidence in summons against parent for non-attendance of children at school. As chairman did not want to press the case, the parent was only made to pay the cost of summons, three shillings. School ground cleared of briars and brambles which have grown up thickly.
December 23, 1898. – Though a great success in other respects, the concert and Christmas Tree were not a success financially.
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Money seems to be very scarce in the place.
December 5, 1898. Poor attendance today because of yesterday’s severe earthquake. Most of chimneys in village down. School unscathed.
March 1, 1899. Chairman’s house burnt down. All school documents lost.
September 13, 1899. Complete falling off in attendance of Maori pupils. Important tangis have been going on for weeks.
February 5, 1900. Children forego prizes so as to make contribution to Transvaal War Fund.
February 28, 1900. Chairman received a telegram from Mr. Seddon (Premier) to say that General Cronje had surrendered all his forces to Lord Roberts. Read message to children who on being conducted outside cheered long and lustily for the victory, the Queen, Lord Roberts and Mr. Seddon. They were then granted a holiday.
July 18, 1900. Macrocarpa trees handed to the children by Mr. Forsyth, were planted, it being Arbor Day.
June 25, 1902. Flag-pole put up to gable of roof ready for unfurling on Coronation Day.
August 9, 1902. Children taken by coach to Wairoa to take part in Coronation Procession. They were provided with refreshments at the school.
November 22, 1902. Cricket match against Wairoa, Frasertown boys winning by 30 runs.
February 4, 1904. Great flood in river – greatest for 27 years. Several children unable to cross river to school on account of banks being deep in mud.
July 28, 1904. Trees planted in afternoon (where have all these gone?)
August 9, 1904. Felt earthquake so strong that ordered children outside. Some shrieked in fright; I had some difficulty in controlling and pacifying them. Once outside soon recovered and laughed at the fright. Soon returned to work again. Yet the shock was such as to be long remembered.
December 21, 1904. Mrs Gosnell’s last day of school after 34 years with the Hawke’s Bay Education Board.
March 1, 1906. Mr. Ruddock took religious teaching 3 to 3.30 p.m.
June 25, 1906. Fine day – in new room as make-shift. Attendance fair.
November 28, 1906. Inspection of School Cadets by Colonel Loveday. Well pleased with his first inspection of the boys.
CLYDEBANK SCHOOL GROUP, 1922.
Back (l. to r.). – Allan Blair, Douglas Blair, Archie McBurnie, Miss D. Torr, Sid Pattison
Middle (l. to r.) – Dave Wilson, Mac Blair, Netty Black, Margaret Pattison, Marjorie Blair, Edith Wilson, Ronald Smith.
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May 27, 1908. George Couper had the misfortune to break the bones of the lower arm while playing football in the playground.
August 10, 1908 (Inspection report) – School as a whole is in good working order. The children are trained to respect the internal and external appearances of the school. There is a fine tone of work and the discipline is effective without severity.
April 22. – Half holiday for opening of new bridge by Hons. Carroll and McKenzie.
April 27, 1911. Two swings erected in girls’ playground.
June 5, 1912. Took charge today. Everything in fair order but reading seems in a state of chaos.
February 4, 1915. W. Oldham has been awarded a Junior Board Scholarship. She has also gained the Wairoa County Scholarship.
July 19, 1915. A number of trees and shrubs planted in school grounds.
May 17. – Misses Corry and Forsyth gone to teachers’ classes in Gisborne. Whole school on my hands (107).
July 22, 1918. Heavy snowstorm today of great interest to children while falling.
November 12, 1918. Peace declared. School closed for holiday.
February 4, 1919. School reopened after being used as a temporary hospital since November 12, 1918.
CLYDEBANK SCHOOL GROUP, 1927.
Back Row (l. to r.). – Eileen McBurnie, Marjorie Oldham, Marjorie Taylor, Nancy Taylor, Ena Walker.
Second Row (l. to r.). – Alick McKenzie, Orton McKenzie, Reg. McKenzie, Arthur Oldham, Jim Symon.
Front Row (l. to r.). – Daisy Symon, Eric McKenzie, Johnny Walker, J. Smith.
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April 11, 1921. Painting and alterations done to school building.
April 4, 1923. Parents afternoon and exhibition of work was held from 2 p.m. The
Chairman Mr. V. E. Winter, members of the committee, Messrs. Munro, Oldham, and Lyall were present. This was the first parents’ day held in the school.
April 9, 1924. Holiday granted by the board to allow children to visit the Wairoa Heads to see the passing of the Imperial Service Squadron.
April 21, 1925. School reopened today after being closed for three months for fear of infantile paralysis epidemic.
August 18, 1932. Planting of totara tree by Mr. Ramlose in memory of Mr. Hill.
November 22, 1934. Dr. Turbott visited school and examined Primers, and Standards 1, 2, and 6.
March 24, 1937. Report received of missing pupil, Raymond Robertson. Bigger boys’ aid solicited in search for child. Later child returned home having been asleep in a plantation not far from home.
September 19, 1940. Attended official opening of secondary department of Wairoa District High School. Took up duties again at 1 p.m.
May 4, 1943. Work commenced on new school.
December 10, 1945. Whole school transported to Wairoa Heads to see “The Indefatigable.”
March 1, 1948. School reopened after being closed for poliomyelitis epidemic.
February, 21, 1948. Meeting called to form “Parents’ League.” A pleasing number of parents present.
October 21, 1948. Senior children taken on an educational tour to Napier. Visited H.B. Show. “Saxon Star,” Children’s Hour at the studio, Watties Canneries, and Daily Telegraph.
February 1, 1950. School rises to grade 4B (four teacher). Art and craft room in use.
August 6, 1951. Senior pupils took part in Drama festival at Wairoa.
December 5, 1953. Opening of School Baths.
January 28, 1959. Mr. E. Brownlie disced the school football grounds preparatory to levelling.
September 8, 1959. Painters completed extensions to detached room. Mr. Paku’s class has been taken in the playshed while alterations have been carried out.
September 4, 1961. School reopened. Roll 146. Expected new entrants failed to arrive. Five pupils short of upgrading (to 5 teachers).
WAIAU SENIOR FOOTBALL TEAM, 1922.
Standing (l. to r.). – A. Lawton, J. Goldstone, S. Albert, G. Dawson, H. Couper, S. Malone, W. Richardson, J. McRoberts, M. Hema, W. Familton, A. Richardson.
Sitting (l. to r.). – E. Single, G. Arundel, G. Couper, S. Harrison, D. Lawton, N. Richardson
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A NOTE OF DISTINCTION
Since the founding of our two schools ex-pupils and teachers have built up a proud record of meritous service to district and country. The following we have singled out as deserving of special mention. Please overlook any noteworthy omissions. These are due to either ignorance of the facts or inability to collect sufficient data.
ATHOL BRUCE FORSYTH M.Sc. (Hons.)
Educated at Frasertown School (‘36-39) Wairoa D.H.S., Gisborne Boys’ High School, and Otago University. A brilliant maths and science student he gained his M.Sc. at Otago attaining third class honours in physics. Also a recipient of the Junior Smeaton Research Scholarship and Proudfoot Research Scholarship. A schoolteacher, he is now head of the maths. department at Hawera High School.
GEORGE ARUNDEL, M.M.
Born at Tiniroto in 1887, Mr. Arundel attended Frasertown School from 1894 till 1901. During the 1914-18 War he served most of his war years on the Western Front in France. During this time he was awarded the Military Medal. Mr. Arundel passed away in 1956.
BRIGADIER G. H. CLIFTON, M.C., D.S.O. (two bars).
Educated Frasertown School (1903) Wairoa, Pahiatua D.H.S. and Royal Military College at Duntroon. Served on the Northwest frontier in India 1920 where he gained his Military Cross. 1939-45 served in U.K. Greece, Crete and North Africa where gained the D.S.O. and two bars. Became a prisoner on 4th September, 1942. Escaped 22nd March, 1945. Retired in 1953.
MICHAEL COMPTON, M.M.
Born in Frasertown, Mr. Compton attended the local school from 1925-34. In 1941 he went with the Special Force to the Pacific. After returning to New Zealand he joined the third division in the Pacific again. On Mono Island in 1943 as a member of a reconnaisance [reconnaissance] party which landed at the rear of an enemy strongpoint, Gunner Compton personally accounted for three Japanese and kept the foxhole entrance blocked while the rest were disposed of by a bayonet party. For this action he was awarded the Military Medal. Mr. Compton later served in Italy with the second division.
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL. STDS. 3-6, 1938.
Back Row (l. to r.). – G. Garnham, J. Lunn, S. Babington, H. Newton, S. Lambert, E. Edwards, B. Edwards, A. Forsyth, D. Arundel.
Second Row (l. to r.). – E. Karauria, H. Johnson, F. Lambert, J. Gunnell, J. Johnson, E. Compton, R. ?, W. Arundel, J. Craig, G. Taunoa, N. Hill.
Front Row (l. to r.). – M. McDonald, J. Ratima, L. Johnson, F. Johnson, Z. Stewart, J. Pilkington, E. Blomfield, M. Stewart, A. Luscombe, W. Kapene, R. Middleton, M. Beckett.
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BADEN PERE B.Sc. (Hons.) M.A.
Baden Pere received his education at Frasertown, North Clyde, Wairoa, Patutahi and Gisborne High School, Auckland Teachers’ College, Church College of Hawaii, and the University of Hawaii majoring in Political Science. While in Hawaii Mr. Pere served on a host of educational and cultural committees, many of them being posts of responsibility. A Fullbright [Fulbright] Scholar, he also lectured at the University of Hawaii. Commissioned at 18 Mr. Pere served as a fighter pilot with the No. 14 jet fighter squadron in the Middle East and Malaya. Baden Pere was the National Candidate for Southern Maori in the last general election.
ROBERT PHILLIPS
One of our oldest living ex-pupils, Bob Phillips was born at Onepoto and educated at Frasertown School from 1896 till 1904. During his early years, in partnership with his brother and later his sister, he owned the Frasertown Store and Bakery. He also ran the Post Office. He actively participated in many sports including rugby, hockey, tennis, cricket, athletics and racing. He was a member of the Wairoa Racing Club for 32 years being made a life member in 1960. Bob was also a member of the hospital board for 15 years.
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL RUGBY TEAM, 1968.
Runners-up Wairoa Primary Schools Under 8 stone Championship.
Back Row (l. to r.). – John Garnham, Hemi Tahuri, Michael Taylor, Turuki Tipuna, Peter Kilkelly, Douglas Roberts, Brett Burgess.
Second Row (l. to r.). – Bunny Brown, Murray Browne.
Turuki Tipuna, Douglas Roberts, Michael Tahuri, Peter Garnham, and Peter Kilkelly were selections for the 1968 Wairoa Ross Shield Reps.
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HECTOR MACASKILL
Educated at Wellington College and Victoria University. Taught at Clydebank School from 1933 till 1936. Served as Lieutenant in the army overseas. invalided out after being wounded in the North African campaign. During this action he was “mentioned in dispatches” Attended the library school in Wellington starting as head of the children’s section of the National Library in 1948. Became deputy head of the National Library and in January of this year became the National Librarian of New Zealand.
CANON WI TE TAU HUATA. M.C.
Born at Mohaka, Canon Huata was educated at Frasertown, Mohaka, Turitiroa, and Te Aute College. During World War II he was appointed Padre for the Maori Battalion with the rank of Captain, serving under (now) Bishop Holland. Canon Huata gained his award in Italy, showing outstanding bravery in bringing in wounded under fire.
ARTHUR W. SOUNDY, B.E.M.
Born in 1878, Mr. Soundy who taught at Frasertown School from 1905 till 1909, is certainly Frasertown’s and perhaps one of New Zealand’s oldest living ex-teachers. While at Frasertown he served the school and the district with much distinction being particularly active in work with the school cadets. Other schools he taught at were Napier, Makauri, and Dannevirke South.
At the close of the 1st World War in which he rose to the rank of Captain he was medically advised to relinquish teaching so took a post with the State Advances Corporation.
Mr Soundy as an unflagging worker for the community. In addition for many years he has been attached to the Foundation for the Blind. It was for work in this field that he was awarded the British Empire Medal.
CLYDEBANK SCHOOL CONCERT, 1937.
Back Row (l. to r.). – Frank Taylor, Joyce Taylor, Con Crispin, Rene Taylor, Max McKenzie, Bell McKenzie, Louis Taylor.
Front Row (l. to r.). – Dawn McKenzie, Charlie Taylor.
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TE OKANGA (AUSSIE) HUATA, M.C.
Born in Mohaka, Aussie Huata was educated at Frasertown, Mohaka, and Turiroa Primary schools and Gisborne Boys’ High School. In World War II he attained the rank of Major in the Maori Battalion, gaining his award in Italy for extreme bravery under fire. Mr. Huata is also a past teacher of the Frasertown School.
ROBERT EDWARDS, M.B.E.
Robert Edwards was born at the Mill Pa, and attended Frasertown school from 1932 till 1940. He joined the R.N.Z.A.F. in 1943 and is still serving, as arms expert and instructor with the rank of sergeant. He earned his award for outstanding service to his country. Mr. Edwards is at present stationed at Wigram Air Station.
SEYMOUR CHARLES ARUNDEL LAMBERT
Seymour Lambert was born at Frasertown and attended school from 1924 till 1932. He was blinded in an accident and later attended the Foundation for the Blind School in Auckland. He has taught adult blind patients at the Auckland Institute and for many years has done outstanding welfare work in visiting blind people all over New Zealand.
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CLYDEBANK SCHOOL GROUP, 1932.
Back (l. to r.). – Reggie McKenzie, Orton Taylor, Eric McKenzie.
Middle (l. to r.). – Mac Dawson, Max McKenzie, Jim Lancaster, Russell Dawson, Con Crispin.
Front (l. to r.). – Rene Taylor, Ruby McKenzie, Louis Taylor, Delys Taylor, Bell McKenzie, Betty Taylor.
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL, PRIMERS, 1934.
Back Row (l. to r.). – M. Te Amo, R. Edwards, C. Te Amo, -, G. Taunoa, H. Newton.
Third Row (l. to r.). – – Thompson, R. Honatapu, M. Kaharoa, D. Cornelious, E. Goodnight.
Second Row (l. to r.). – M. Gamble, M. Kihi, K. Honatapu, A. Luscombe, M. Beckett, M. Stewart, E. Blomfield, V. Vincent, M. McDonald, R. Johnson.
Front Row (l. to r.). – M. Unwin, T. Simon, P. Lambert, J. Mist, R. Johnson, T. Dooley, R. Phillips, A. Gamble, G. Garnham, D. Gamble.
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HEAD TEACHERS AND CHAIRMEN
Head teachers of the Frasertown School since 1983 and Chairmen of the School Committee since 1886 are given below. Some unavoidable omissions are regretted. Date shown is that upon which duty was commenced.
HEADTEACHERS.
1873: Mrs. McDonnell
1875: Mrs. Baker
1878: Mr. R. Taylor
1881: Mr. A. D. Fraser
1883: Mrs. T. Hallett
1886: Mr. P. Bear
1886: Mr. H. L. Roberts
1887: Miss R. A. Pirani
1889: Mrs. L. Gosnell
1902: Mr. J. Kane
1906: Mr. A. W. Soundy
1909: Mr. W. G. Menzies
1911: Mr. H. L. Kidd, B.A., B.Sc.
1912: Mr. T. J. Plank
1916: Miss C. J. Brown
1921: Mr. M. Parker Smith
1922: Mr. F. G. Barnby
1925: Mr. A. W. Bird
1933: Mr. W. H. Craig
1948: Mr. S. H. Webb
1952: Mr. C. R. Black
1955: Mr. D. R. Hill
1957: Mr. A. Vugler, B.Com.
1965: Mr. D. P. J. Crofskey, Dip. Tchg.
CHAIRMEN
1876: Mr. B. Glass
1880: Mr. J. Tonks
1881: Mr. J. Couper
1883: Mr. J. Tonks
1884: Mr. D. Johnston (Jun.)
1885: Mr. W. Couper
1888: Mr. J. Hird
1889: Mr. M. Couper
1905: Mr. J. Davey
1904: Mr. S. J. Bennett
1905: Mr. J. Davey
1908: Mr. T. J. Tunks
1913: Mr. S. G. Stacey
1920: Mr A. H. H. Unwin
1922: Mr. W. G. Stacey
1923: Mr. V. E. Winter
1924: Mr. S. G. Munro
1933: Mr. T. Davey
1935: Mr. S. Compton
1948: Mr. Maxwell
1953: Mr. D. Wilson
1957: Mr. N. Trafford
1957: Mr. A. McKenzie
1963: Mr N. Munro
1965: Mr C. Browne
The following have relieved as head teachers of Frasertown School: Mr. Charles (1902), Mr. C. Boulton (1902), Miss Tucker (1905), Mr. C. A. Eves (1905), Mr. S. McClure (1908), Mr. A. Warburton (1910), Mr. T. A. Nicoll (1912), Mr. J. W. Primrose (1921), Mrs. Dorothy Glass (1925), Mr. R. Bickerstaff (1940) Mr. I. Johnston (1940), Mr. E. J. McNicoll (1947), Mr. H. H. Hichling (1952), Mr. T. G. Carter (1965).
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FRASERTOWN AND CLYDEBANK
CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS
The response was equal to the occasion as some 600 people. gathered to celebrate the Frasertown School’s centenary and Clydebank School’s jubilee held over Labour Weekend 25-27th October 1968. Tribute should be paid to the school principal of that time Mr Doug Crofskey whose energy and enthusiasm for the whole project was a major factor in its overwhelming success.
The organising committee consisted of the Head Teacher Mr D. Crofskey (Chairman), Mrs M. Stone (Secretary), Mrs D. Wilson (Ass. Secretary), Mr D. Wilson (Treasurer), Mr S. Lambert (Historian), R. Trafford, H. Beckett, B. Taylor, R. Hill, D. Arundel and B. McKinnon. Many other people were to have considerable input into organising an event which was to become a highlight of Frasertown School’s history.
The task of compiling and producing the Centenary Booklet, along with the organisation of the weekend’s activities was a credit to all concerned. The effort and considerable research put into producing the Centenary Booklet led to a large variety of material being sourced from such places as the National Archives, the Alexander Turnbull Library, the Department of Education, the Department of Lands and Survey as well as valuable knowledge and information provided by local identities. The resulting publication was to become highly sort after with copies going to the Department of Education, the General Assembly Library, the National Library. provincial libraries and also as far as Australia.
The real value of the Centenary Booklet was perhaps felt most locally, as it provided for all time a comprehensive history of an institution that has always been the centre of activity in rural New Zealand. It gave the Frasertown School and District a written record of 100 years of activity and events which otherwise, might be lost to the ravages of time. Cost of the publication was set at $1.00.
The programme for the weekend consisted of registration, roll call, photographs, official speakers, entertainment, dinner, centenary ball and church service. Plenty of time had been set aside for the most important aspect of any reunion, that of meeting old friends and reminiscing over days gone by.
Official speakers included the school committee chairman, Mr C. J. Browne, the chairman of the Hawke’s Bay Education Board, Mr L. R. Lewis, a well known ex-pupil, Canon Wi Huata, the local M.P., Mr J R. Harrison, the Wairoa County Council chairman, Mr W. G. Nolan, and the School’s Headmaster, Mr D. P. J. Crofskey,
Celebrations began from 12 noon on the Friday afternoon with ex-pupils, teachers, committee members and home and school sociation officers registering and catching up with old acquaintances. Although Saturday dawned with a strong wind and the odd shower of rain, the sun soon broke through the clouds, reflecting the warm atmosphere of friendship and laughter below.
Registration was completed as well as the photographic session with the various decades, and other groups such as committee members and ex-Clydebank pupils lining up for their official photographs. One of the notable photographs taken was that of the oldest ex-pupil present Mrs M. Bodley (nee Stacey) with the most recent enrolments, twins Ross and Glen Stone who were the sons of Mrs M. Stone the organising committee secretary of the celebrations.
Official speakers were followed with a break for lunch which included the traditional hangi. A “museum” room combining antiques of yesteryear were on display as well as teaching apparatus books and examples of children’s work in the modern day school of 1968. The afternoon’s entertainment began with the traditional challenge to school pupils and visitors returning to the school, followed by school items, Maori action songs and hakas.
The evening programme continued at the Wairoa Memorial Hall with the Centenary Dinner and official cutting of the cake by the oldest expupils present Mrs Bodley (Stacey), who had attended Frasertown School from 1895 to 1901, and Mr Dave Wilson who had attended Clydebank School. Then followed the Ball with a feature of the evening being a floorshow presented by ex Frasertown pupil Mere Tipoki and her group the Chiquita Dancers.
On Sunday the Church Service was conducted in the School grounds by Canon Wi Huata.
So concluded a weekend of celebration by those fortunate enough to attend, who also
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acknowledged the contribution so many had made in the past to shaping the character and identity of Frasertown School and District. The proud foundation and tradition which the School looked back on can only stand in good stead as we look forward to the century to come.
The oldest and youngest among the pupils at the Centenary weekend were Mrs M. Bodley (nee Stacey) who attended the school from 1895-1901), and Ross and Glen Stone, who had only been at school a few weeks.
Mr D. Wilson and Mrs Bodley cutting the centenary cake.
FRASERTOWN SCHOOL
The first centenary of the History of the Frasertown School came to a close in 1968. So began the next 25 years. With them came audio and video cassettes, skateboards, photo-copiers, and computers. Little did we know the extent of changes and challenges in education which were in store for teachers, pupils and parents.
1969 The School roll increased to 134, the biggest ever. Over-crowding was a real problem. The need to provide a Play Centre for pre-school children was discussed.
1970 A Play Centre was set up in the Community Hall with Mrs Glenis Single appointed as Supervisor.
A further increase in the roll, made an extra classroom imperative. Tenders were called, with Hedley & Sons of Wairoa getting the contract.
1971 At the end of the year the Governor General Sir Arthur and Lady Porrit came to visit. This was a very exciting event for the children. Flowers and a basket of fruit were presented to their important guests.
1972 Doug Crofskey resigned after seven years as Head Teacher.
1974 The Wairoa Intermediate School opened. Frasertown became a contributing school, with Forms I and II leaving to attend Intermediate. This resulted in a big decrease in the roll with the Infant Room no longer required, the Play Centre was able to move to the school. Many happy times were spent here by pre-schoolers and it is regrettable that the Play Centre went into recession in 1992. Hopefully it will return.
1977 Frasertown School donated a Linen Chest to Putahi Marae. The school used the Marae for many functions. The chest was a special way to say thank-you. Kevin Brown was responsible for organising this.
1982 The old Maru Maru Dental Clinic was transported to the school to become the Reading Resource room. It was fully occupied on arrival by a swarm of bees!! The old changing sheds were demolished and replaced by Hedley & Sons.
The quad concrete, which was deemed dangerous, was repaired.
At the Christmas Break-up, Mr Graeme Knighton, Head master (1978-1981) officiated at the opening of the new sheds.
The Friday Flash, a newspaper written by the children, with stories, poems and news items was produced on the old gestetner. Although it was very popular, because of costs and lack of time, it only survived a matter of months.
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1983 The old school house was demolished, and replaced by the unused Hillneath school house.
Re-modelling the school was discussed with members of the Hawkes Bay Education Board.
The lack of room for buses at the front of the school prompted the School Committee to approach the Wairoa County Council for assistance to rectify this problem. It was agreed the school would provide the culverts, the Council the labour and the Hawkes Bay Education Board $500.00.
The school was re-roofed.
1984 Kath Lambert, school cleaner for 19 years, retired. The children knew her as a friend, who taught them to take a pride in their school. A successful Gala raised money to buy a television and video as video was starting to replace film reels in the schools.
1985 It was decided by the parents, who were always supportive of the school, to amalgamate the School Committee and Home & School Assn., and form a council. This did away with two meetings a month, generally attended by the same parents and made discussions and decisions about the welfare of the school much easier.
1986 A photo-copier was purchased, which was a wonderful help to the teachers for both lessons and newsletters. The community were encouraged to use it for a small fee.
On the 12th August, remodelling the school began at the cost of $94,000.00. Although it was to be finished by the end of the year, it was not officially opened and blessed until 1987.
1987 The school bell which had rung for many years was stolen. Despite all the efforts of everybody who searched and searched it was not found. Jill Grooby, the Treasurer, decided Frasertown School needed a new bell and wrote to the Navy asking for help. A letter was received which said they would look into it, but no promises.
1988 A new childproof fence was erected around the swimming pool. The Play Centre was an extremely busy place and as the old netting fence was not secure and described as “an accident waiting to happen”, replacement was necessary. The actual building of the fence created a lot of discussion, because the Fire Service required ready access to the water in the pool, if needed. Large spikes at the top of the fence in one set of plans were thought hazardous to the fireman’s person.
Headmaster Alan Russek planned a wonderful trip for Std 3 and 4 children to Rotorua. Over $4,000.00 was raised by the classes to finance this trip. The children were gone for 1 week.
Mrs Alice Robertson, a familiar face in the school classrooms was presented with a long service gift, for 19 years she had been at Frasertown School.
Cyclone Bola struck in March. The school was not damaged but some children had difficulty getting to school for a few days. The loss of the Wairoa Bridge presented many, many problems with transport, For some time the only way from north to south was through Awamate. The school’s new Headmaster for 1989, Andy Hardie, lived in Wairoa and made the long drive daily, until the railway bridge was converted to take vehicle traffic. The foot-bridge which spanned the river, was extensively used, as was the barge which crossed continually.
1989 The N.Z. Education system brought about the election for a Board of Trustees. It meant the day-to-day management of both finance and curriculum became the responsibility of five elected parents, a teacher representative and the Headmaster. Many, many meetings were held over the next six months, while the Trustees came to grips with the changes, plus all the new changes the Government kept making to the initial changes. Confused? We were! Many changes are still taking place, but with good parent participation, Frasertown will always thrive.
At the Christmas Break-up the Navy came through! Commander John Ladd and Lisa Taylor, a past pupil, presented a shiny new bell to Headmaster Andy Hardie. This bell is now attached very securely to the Reading Room wall and is rung to let children know when class starts and finishes.
1990 The new Wairoa Bridge was opened on 7th February by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Frasertown children were among the hundreds of children and people who came to witness this very special and memorable occasion. Krystal Morrell, a Frasertown School pupil, presented the Queen with a bouquet of flowers. Krystal is a descendant of the first French Whalers who fished our shores. The day will be part of Wairoa history, and always remembered for three things…The Queen and Prince Philip came to Wairoa… After two years, traffic could freely move from north to south… and its was the hottest day of the year!
1991 The roll increased again. Because the Library had to be used as a classroom, more
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space was necessary; the Ministry of Education informed the school a vacant room from Wycliffe Intermediate Napier would be moved in July. This was a welcome relief from over-crowding. With the powers the Board of Trustees now have, several schools were considering recapation [recapitation]. This meant Forms I and II would stay at their original school. The parents were extremely keen this could happen, but with prohibitive costs, and lack of space, it was decided not to pursue recapation at that time.
1992 The children attended the opening of the Frasertown Community Police Station enhancing relationships between children and police.
At the beginning of 1992, an Education Review was held which covered the Administration of the school and areas of the curriculum. Interviews and discussions took place with staff, Board of Trustee members and the community. The out-come, published in June, resulted in an extremely favourable report. It was justification for Board members at least for all those meetings.
The second Board of Trustees election was held in April. It was a positive indication that parents wished to be part of their school, as there were eleven candidates to choose from, and a very good turn out of voters. The change to the new Board went smoothly. The Dental Clinic was no longer used and in its place a fully equipped caravan comes to school, unfortunately not every six months, but every twelve to eighteen months. The Dental Clinic was renovated and turned into a Reading Resource room. The toilet block was re-decorated, the floor re-surfaced and windows replaced.
1993 The Staff Room is enlarged to relieve congestion.
Fund Raising – This is an on-going, everpresent necessity, an important part of the school year for school, parents, and community. The need to up-date office equipment, subsidise school trips, buy new library books, provide materials for the play ground, concrete the drive, replace old trees .and maintain the grounds in first class condition all require money. The ways of raising money are innovative and numerous. There has been a Queen Carnival, Fancy Dress Ball, Disco, Gala Days and helping with the annual Frasertown Wood-Chop. For the past four years the Christmas Cracker Raffle has been popular, with the tickets sold locally and in Wairoa. In 1992 $4000.00 was raised. This input is acknowledged and congratulations to all concerned.
Sport and Culture – Frasertown School always enjoys participating in sport and culture events, both at their school and away at area school sports days and Maori Festivals. Their good sportsmanship and manners are commended upon time and time again.
Pet and Flower Day – In October the children have their Pet and Flower Day. It is a festive day, with everybody having fun. It is not competitive, with all the children creating beautiful sand saucers, floral arrangements, miniature farms and gardens. The afternoon is for pets – always a variety of cats, dogs, birds and of course lambs and calves. Sometimes there are the odd ones like bantams, goats, piglets, snails or whitebait. All the children receive a Certificate for their participation. Usually the day runs smoothly, but with animals anything is possible. The afternoon a large black curly retriever ate an unsuspecting guinea pig will long be remembered. Much like the very talkative parrot with an extremely colourful vocabulary. which came to the Pet Day thirty odd years ago. Just as he got really interesting with a captive audience, a spoil-sport adult, would throw a blanket over him – Silence!
Transport – More than half the children travel to school by bus. The buses used to be run by the Ministry of Education. In 1990 the Ministry sold the buses to private tenders. This caused considerable concern, because the majority of the buses were old and poorly maintained. A close watch is kept on the buses, with any problems brought to the attention of the Minister of Education.
To commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the School, the Board of Trustees are renewing the entrance way. This will feature a new carved school sign, replanting old trees which have been removed, and gardens to complement the area.
No doubt the changes during the next 25 years will be as extensive as the last 25. And the children will still come, for a sound education, for good friends and for fond memories of their early school years.
HEADMASTERS DURING THE LAST 25 YEARS
Doug Crofskey
Mr Sheedy
Kevin Brown
Graeme Knighton
Trish Hoy (Mistress)
Lindsay Aimes
Alan Russek
Andy Hardie
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Maori Culture Group 1988
The Queen Carnival 1977 raises $4200
Princesses from left Joanne Cotter (2), Reremoana Tipuna (1), Terina Governor (3).
Frasertown Midgets 1969
Runners-up Midget Competition
Winners – Lowest points tally against
Winners – Best Uniform
From Left: P. Sherp A Roberts T Cotter J Andrew L Wilson A Clifton M. Winiata
At the Christmas Break-up 1989, Commander John and Wren Lisa Taylor from the Royal N.Z. Navy presented Headmaster Andy Hardie with the new school bell to replace the one stolen in 1987.
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Pet Day Memory at Frasertown – A real fun filled day. –
Kylie Morrell presented the Queen with flowers 1900
Lady Porritt receiving flowers form Peter Crofskey and Hana Cotter.
The Governor-General, Sir Arthur Porritt talks to a group of boys during his visit to the school in 1971.
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MEMORIES FROM SOME PAST HEADMASTERS
HAPPY DAYS AT FRASERTOWN
Along with our three children, Philip, Anne and Peter, Morva and I took up residence in Frasertown in May, 1965. Having been empty for 5-6 months, the schoolhouse had been cleaned thoroughly from top to bottom, the lawns mowed and gardens dug. The cupboards were richly stocked with pies, cakes, and other prepared foods. Such provisions continued to arrive over the next several days in such quantities as to abate the necessity of preparing meals for the whole of the first week. Such generosity, kindness, and open-heartedness typified Frasertown and when we made our reluctant departure in August, 1972, left with us indelible impressions of a uniquely caring community. Specific instances of kindnesses are too numerous to mention so I will give one typical example.
I obtained permission from the Education Board to root out an ugly, dust-filled eleagnus [elaeagnus] hedge bordering the roadside boundary of the schoolhouse section and replace it with a fence. As I came from a farming background, I made preparations to carry out the task myself. Before I could start on the project, word got around and l was about to start operations with slasher and grubber, Mike Compton arrived with the Kiwi Transport bulldozer and demolished the hedge within half an hour. Next day, the Edwards brothers erected an eight wire fence!
Naturally all classes were multi-level and, by today’s standards, some of them were huge. In one year l taught a class of 45 ranging from S3-F2. Although I worked long hours in teaching and preparatory work, the task wasn’t too onerous, principally because of the quality of the pupils and the warm co-operation of their parents. This is not to say they were all eager learners but they did work hard and were most appreciative of the efforts made on their behalf. Notwithstanding the above there were some truly gifted or very able pupils at Frasertown in my time. I fondly recall the high standards of work produced by Judy Pegram, Craig McKinnon, Joylene Tipoki, Patsy Edwards, Raewyn Edwards, Sharon Lambert, Ronald Davey, Michael Taylor, and David Jenkins to name but a few. Then there were the loveable “rogues”. Who could forget Wiwi Kapene with his impish grin and hilarious antics. Another rascal was Angus Cornelius. One day, as I was exiting the classroom Angus, who was in the school footy paddock, directed some “lip” in my direction. He fancied himself as a bit of a sprinter and took off for the boundary fence. Imagine his consternation when I “nailed” him just short of his objective. Angus and I meet occasionally in Hastings and fondly recall old times.
I recall many hard-working teachers who were, from time to time, part of the staff at Frasertown. There was a close and warm relationship amongst us which made the task of leading the school far from arduous. It was a privilege and pleasure to have the support of fine teachers such as the Unwin sisters-in-law, Joan, Margorie and Andre, Lorena Oldham, and Mihi Stewart.
The school at all times received the whole hearted support of the community, whether through the school committee or the lively Home and School Assn. led, most of the time, by the redoubtable Mary Brownlie. Working bees, whether painting the baths or demolishing a tree or two, were relaxing exercises with plenty of hilarity especially when Frank Taylor, Frank Hole, or Colin Browne were present.
Highlights during the year were the country schools’ sports days centred naturally on Frasertown. Rugby, Softball, and Tennis were enjoyed by all but perhaps the most spectacular were the Athletic Sports. Here the Home and School Assn. took the opportunity of making a buck or two by running sweets, cooking, preserves or vegetable stall. Scores of youngsters came bounding out of the hills with their pockets crammed with money. While they competed vigorously in the athletics, the ladies worked just as hard relieving them of their wealth.
Our 7½ years’ residence in Frasertown was a truly rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Doug Crofskey
Although New Zealand is a young country (a few of my friends might hasten to add that Aotearoa has been settled for hundreds of years!) it is indeed an achievement for a school to celebrate 125 years. I would like to congratulate your committee for having the energy and resources to celebrate your 125 years.
My years at Frasertown School were good years and sitting here thinking about those times now, fill me with warm thoughts and memories.
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As a staff we got on well together and often had a little fun – usually at someone else’s expense. I’ll never forget some of our parents’ faces when they were asked with mock seriousness by some wag on the staff on the occasion of the enrolment of a five year old, whether their child could read and write yet. Or Judy McInnes (with Alice Robertson lurking in the background) dishing up foaming sugar for morning tea and plastic flies in sponge cake.
Frasertown School was my first principalship and was a steep learning curve for me. There was always a lot of work to do, and not enough time to complete things. I don’t think things will be any better these days with the extra responsibilities rural school principals now have.
I valued the support of the School Committee (as it was called then) and the PTA. I was lucky to have a very supportive Chairman for much of my time at Frasertown School in Rohan Pattison who worked hard for the school. Ian Simonsen was the Chairman of the PTA and his group was also very supportive and worked hard for the school.
On one occasion we experienced quite an earthquake at morning interval and as I ran along the verandah to check the classrooms (children were inside because it was a wet day) I could hear children calling out to hide because Mr Amies was coming! As it turned out our older pupils had remembered their drills and had dived under desks for safety reasons – our younger pupils thought it was all a game!
I have heard Frasertown School has been refurbished and remodelled. Not before time. It was always a hard school to keep clean and looking its best. The Lamberts worked hard for the school. I hope the present cleaners have an easier job to do.
I learned most of my Te Reo Maori and Tikanga Maori at Frasertown School. Kahu Stirling regularly visited the school to take class lessons – I was as much the learner as was the class. Moetu Tohiariki was on the School Committee. and he and his family gave great support to the school which helped us a lot. Being invited on to the Marae was a significant occasion for me and an experience which deepened my understanding. Kia Ora Moetu.
We regularly thrashed town schools which came out to play rugby on our grounds. Maybe the townies weren’t quite so adept at avoiding the “fertilised spots”. Our teams always had strong vocal support and on one occasion one of our supporters really got behind the team by taking a bucket along the sideline to receive donations for the team whenever we scored a try. The team made about $15.00 that day!
When it came time to leave Frasertown School for a position in Northland, I wondered whether I was really doing the right thing.
As a part of my farewell Andy Shaw dropped in quite unexpectedly one afternoon and took me for a tour over the Wairoa-Frasertown district where my family had lived for twelve years or so.
We haven’t forgotten the good times.
Lindsy Amies
I was appointed very late in Term One 1985 and within three weeks was in residence in the school house on Russell Parade. My first view of the school was on a flying twenty-four hour visit from Northland in the response to the first letter advising of my appointment.
I spent the rest of 1985 getting acquainted with the school and the local environment. The first surprise came in Term 3, when we were host school for the Maori Culture Festival. I had no background in this area and was guided by the co-operative staff and the willing locals. During the rest of my time, highlights included the remodelling of the main block and the full reorganisation of the school and general development in the grounds and school environment.
Cyclone Bola in 1988 left us with only 12 pupils for a day or so, and some vivid memories of no power; rising rivers, mud and silt. and some very alternative methods of getting to town such as army barge and rubber dinghy.
One of the strongest impression I hold of Frasertown was the willingness of everyone to get behind school projects. I especially recall fund-raising for the Rotorua Trip in 1988 and various individuals in costume selling the Christmas Cracker raffle, in town. The staff all gave positive input and valuable contributions to the school. The children are remembered by us for their sparkle and zest for life and learning and their generally positive attitude and interest in school programmes. The Frasertown school and community have given all our family a great deal to remember positively.
Memories – My first meeting with the Howard boys – they arrived one Sunday afternoon with beers in hand and eating venison. The first question was – Do you drink? That was the first of many great. times spent diving and socialising.
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Rugby – My other main interest. Playing for Waiau was a real experience. There was great team spirit and the rugby was good. Kuki Green Shield and hangi preparation are often recalled. My first memory is of a Thursday night training – as kicked the iron door of the shed in I was greeted by a sea of faces belonging to various Tahuris, Kapenes, Tipunas, Govvy and others. They and all the characters remain with me.
Alan Russek.
THOUGHTS FROM TODAY’S SCHOOL
Five years have very quickly passed since I was seconded to the position of Principal at Frasertown School in January 1989.
At that time all teachers, education administrators and school communities were waiting with, in most cases, some apprehension about the impending education reforms, commonly termed “Tomorrows Schools”. I for one certainly never visualised or appreciated the vastness or the speed of these changes until we were actually involved with them.
Our school community was very fortunate that a group of very capable people, who were willing to learn and adapt to change, made themselves available, and were elected as our schools inaugural Board of Trustees. Headed very ably by Mrs Michelle Brownlie we entered into the spirit of the reforms and worked very hard towards fulfilling the often unobvious requirements that legislation dictated.
Possibly the most difficult aspect of the changes to get to grips with were, firstly. the sheer volumes of paperwork and consultation procedures the process demanded, and secondly the adjusting and coming to terms with the governance management responsibilities required by both myself and the Board of Trustees.
The community of Frasertown school have coped admirably with the changes and have moved down the self management track in my view quite smoothly and effectively.
The school, during my time here has maintained an increasing roll, a hard working and very stable teaching and ancillary staff and continued commitment by our community to support and seek the best for their children.
Some issues that have confronted our school and community over those five years have included
– The contracting of Education Board bus runs
– The issues of recapitation
– Addition of a classroom administration area and various out buildings and playground equipment
– The pool relief staffing scheme
– Accountability to Education review office requirements
– The playcentre going into recess
– The introduction of national curriculum initiatives
The flexibility the reforms have given schools in matters such as finance and property management, in my view is very positive, but they are also having the effect of cutting interschool professional interaction, reducing the movement of teachers between areas, and generally localising aspects of education, which may not be in the best interest of small rural communities.
Frasertown School has a very strong and proud history and has always had a supportive and caring community to back it up.
The school under the management of its present Board of Trustees is in a very stable position in its 125th year and all indications suggest that this will continue.
My congratulations to the Anniversary Committee for their efforts in the presentation of this booklet.
Andy Hardie
When I was first appointed to Frasertown School it was a full primary. There were three classrooms in the main block and the original school (now Playcentre) was a classroom. Just prior to the opening of Wairoa Intermediate, a relocatable classroom (now Room 4) was added and a class was also being taught in the Community Hall.
The classrooms were wood panelled to the bottom of the windows with oiled wood floors. They were dark and dingy. When it got too depressing the staff would paint the pinex in their own rooms. There were two cloakrooms which were also used for storage and teaching on occasion. These were incorporated into the classrooms and the library when the school was remodelled.
Putahi Marae was the venue for many school activities. Fancy dress concerts, play evenings and break-ups were held there.
The school was a centre for rural sports activities from Tuai to Ruakituri. Competition was very strong.
There was a competitive element within the school in sports and academic and cultural events. The annual Pet and Flower Day was a hazardous event requiring outside judges whose credentials were often questioned by the parents of ‘almost’ winners. A far cry from the relaxed fun and enjoyment day we now have.
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Over the years the school interior has been remodelled, the roof replaced, a new classroom and storage areas added. We boast two dental clinics, neither in use for their original purpose. We are now serviced by a caravan.
The purpose of the school remains as does the warmth and friendliness of the children and their families.
It’s a great place small enough to have a family atmosphere, large enough to provide
differences.
Alice Robertson.
TOMORROW’S SCHOOLS – FINANCIAL CHANGES
On 1st October 1989 the School Board of Trustees assumed full responsibility for the governance of our school some 3 months after being elected by the community. This means the Board of Trustees hold total discretion over the expenditure of moneys at the school. The exceptions being Teachers salaries, Equity and Maori Language which must be spent within certain guidelines. Major capital expenditure remains with the Ministry of Education.
At the end of the financial year audited financial statements are available for public scrutiny. Trustees are not liable for loss in good faith, but trustees responsible for fraud or wrong doing are collectively or individually liable.
Those who served on the old School Committee system will remember that the Education Department set financial guidelines at the start of the school year and the school was expected to live within these. Locally raised funds were however available to Committees to spend as they saw fit. Under the new system the Ministry of Education gives the school an Operational Grant – paid out in four instalments – this is based on the school role. The Maori Language grant is based on the number of maori children on the role. Equity is used for children with special education needs e.g. reading recovery.
One of the biggest challenges for the Principal and Board of Trustees has been the need to become skilled at budgeting and financial management. A budget at the beginning of each year is mandatory. Our school pays a local Accountancy firm to record and prepare financial management reports for the Board. Managerial salaries (i.e. in our case Principals salary) are now built into the Operational Grant. Frasertown School may well end up as a publicly funded “Privately run school”.
John Richardson – Treasurer.
CLOSURE OF NEIGHBOURING SCHOOLS
RANGIAHUA SCHOOL
Although a school had been sought from early 1909, it was not until 1911 that work began, not without difficulty. There had been an argument that Pakiaka would have been more central, but finally Rangiahua won the decision.
Unluckily, the donated site was surface flooded when the builder, Mr L. Simmonds arrived so he and his crew had to camp on higher ground till the water dispersed.
The swift-flowing Waiau River caused problems too. He recorded “Sometimes the river rises as much as 40 feet. As the river will not be passable until Christmas by wagon, all the material has to be canoed across. This results sometimes in materials being lost overboard.” However, construction proceeded, then “Just as the school and residence were completed, a swarm of bees, looking for somewhere to live, decided the new house would do admirably. They carried a lot of misery among the hands on the job, and a lot of Maoris were severely stung trying to get them out. There were four large hives, and the wax taken out would have filled a dray.”
At last, on November 27th 1911 the new Rangiahua Native School was opened. In later years, its name was changed to Rangiahua Maori School, and eventually, just Rangiahua School.
Mr Edward H.M. Alford was the first teacher, with an attendance of 29 pupils. His daughter, Connie, who became Mrs Jack Tapper, is remembered for her unusual fluency in the Maori language, developed during her school days, while his son Norman, became well-known through his many “letters to the Editor” in our local newspaper on a variety of controversial subjects.
Proposals were made for a footbridge across the river, but the plans were put aside, and later a “cage”, suspended from a strong steel cable and operated by ropes on a pulley system, was erected. This served for many years until flood waters washed it away. By then the Homeleigh Bridge was open for traffic, so the cage was never re-established.
Mr Alford saw the school all through its early days and right through the troubled times of the First World War (1914-1918). His time here (1911-1919), that of Miss Harlow (1919-1926) and that of Mr and Mrs J.B. Mora (1933-1937) and (1938-1942), only broken by illness, were the only long-staying periods. The years between and the years that followed were marked by rapid staff changes.
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One of those, Miss Blathwayt (1931-32) arrived on February 2nd 1931. During the morning interval on her second day, at 10:50 am the Napier earthquake struck. Fortunately, the children were all outside as the chimney toppled onto the roof and caused parts of the ceiling to crash into the classroom. Havoc was caused in the school residence, as also in all the homes in the valley and the Mangawhero Bridge was destroyed. School did not re-open for a fortnight.
During the second half of his stay here (1938-1942), Mr Mora and his pupils survived the rigours of a very cold winter in the marae hall, while the new school buildings were being erected. The new school was opened on July 29th 1939, by Sir Apirana Ngata M.P., assisted by Mr E. Cullen M.P., representing the Minister of Education.
Large-scale epidemics among the pupils and ill-health within their own family presented great difficulties for Mr and Mrs D.V. Banks (1942- 1944), and Mr and Mrs Hildyard (1947-1949) faced empty classrooms in February 1948 during the polio epidemic throughout the country. Children worked from home by correspondence. Rangiahua was isolated for a week in May of that year by the most serious floods in local history.
Mr and Mrs D.P. McMurray (1949-1952) arrived just as “Unwin Bros.” were starting out on their post-war farm, at the end of Rangiahua Road. Since Mrs McMurray was not a trained teacher Mrs J.P. Unwin (nee Maylett) was persuaded to join Mrs McMurray in the classroom for a time, in order to “show her the ropes”. Mrs Unwin has just given up teaching at Frasertown School the year before, to be married. Mrs McMurray managed quite well for a time but gradually other young female assistants were appointed, in tum.
Mr and Mrs R.M. Andersen arrived mid-1952, having been teaching in Samoa, and Mr Andersen inaugurated the first school transport system in October 1952, in his own vehicle, a station-wagon. Previously, children had walked or ridden on horseback over quite long distances in order to attend school. Apart from his excellent work in the classroom, Mr Andersen will always be remembered for the magnificent displays of flowering bulbs he produced, mainly daffodils, a hobby of his.
Frustration and problems over transport set in after he left, but a red letter day dawned on May 23rd 1955, when Departmental Bus 396 arrived on the scene, transporting children for four schools, and giving local children their real opportunity for full-time secondary education at Wairoa College. The opening of Wairoa Intermediate School had made the bus-system imperative, when so many schools gave up their forms I-II classes (ex standards 5-6).
In September 1957, Mr and Mrs R.G. Fisher arrived to take up their appointment. Apart from all their other achievements, they stand out as the organisers of Rangiahua Maori School’s Golden Jubilee Celebrations (1911-1961), which was a wonderful success. Connie (Tapper) and Norman Alford were present, as well as many first-day and first-decade ex-pupils. For a small twoteacher school, there was a surprisingly large crowd, including the current generation at the time, numbering 46 pupils!
Therefore although two more staff changes followed, it was a distinct shock to realise how the school roll had decreased in the intervening period, to the point where it would have been below 8, the minimum allowable. As in many country areas, as the young people grew up they moved away into the towns and cities, and only returned to visit.
The people of Rangiahua had known the school’s closure was imminent by late 1967, and the decision was forced upon them that the remaining pupils must henceforth travel to Frasertown School by the Education Department’s School Bus Service. However, the school managed to last for one more year, but its doors finally closed in December 1968.
It was a sad fact to face, for a people proud of their school, and most supportive of it, all through the years, and brought home most vividly on the day when items of furniture and valuable technical equipment were loaded onto a Kiwi Transport truck to be delivered to Frasertown School, for use there.
To use up the last of the school funds, there was a grand picnic outing to Morere for children, staff and parents, and since donations had been coming in, from the time of the Jubilee, towards a swimming pool project, some of those were returned to any known donors, while the unidentifiable remainder was spent on a parting gift of a folding chair to that “good and faithful servant” of the Lord, Miss Jean Young (1933-1968), as well as a large specially made teawagon for the marae dining-hall, and a brass wall-mounted bell for the marae meeting-house.
With the bell now mounted on the central pillar, it is hoped that each time the people gather there and hear its ringing as a call to attend service, they will be reminded that, long ago, they heeded a similar ringing as a call to attend class in the fine school that once was here.
The house remains on site, but the school has gone, having been dismantled and sold … but we remember.
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A sad day for Rangiahua School
Loading equipment to go to Frasertown School, December 1968.
Above Left
Mr Tu Beattie (left) and Mr Sam Ruawai (right) (Both ex-chairmen of the School Committee) accept gifts for the marae bought with final school funds.
Left
Closing day of the Rangiahua School (Dec 1968)
MARU MARU SCHOOL
A one room school was built in 1913 and officially opened in February 1914 with 12 pupils. A number of Maru Maru residents children transferred from Frasertown School to become first day pupils at the new Maru Maru School.
The efforts of the late Mr Hugh Lyall, an Ardkeen farmer, in obtaining the school were acknowledged when he became the first secretary treasurer of the school committee. The first chairman was Mr S Dickie. Miss Maggie Wilson was the first teacher.
A new room was added to the school in 1946, the existing room turned round and the school became a two teacher under Miss N. Frizzell as head and Mrs G. Knighton as first assistant.
A school house was built in 1953 and a Home and School Association was formed in the same year. In 1958 swimming baths were built. The buildings were modernised in 1960 and a staffroom, ablution block, storeroom and another school room being added.
The roll peaked at 64 pupils and in the last years declined steadily to first become a sole charge and then to be closed at the end of 1988.
Since the closure most of the Maru Maru districts children are attending Frasertown again.
Maru Maru School
Page kindly donated by McEwens Bookshop
Page 64
Std 3 & 4 1980
Back Row: Graeme Moscrip, Graeme Johnson, Morgan Kapene, Ugene Whatuira, Tony Stuart.
3rd Row: Joyce Campbell, Wendy Jacobs, Rosie McClutchie, Paula Scott, Juanita Cotter, Susan Elliott.
2nd Row: Jeffrey Wearing, Kathryn Thompson, Eve Carter, Lisa Fafua, Lisa Taylor, Caroline Aires, Karen Denton.
Front Row: Wayne Howard, Dwayne Thompson, Jason Cotter, Graham Kilkelly.
Teacher: Graeme Knighton
Room 1 1990
Back row: N. Little, C. Burton, H. Howell, W. Allan, J. Paku, H. Howell, W. Allan, J. Paku, D. Proffit.
2nd Row: M. Harker, K. McKinnon, K. Wilson, L. Horua-Edwards, J. Beer, M. Cooper, K. Crarer.
Front Row: C. Turner, H. Cotter
Teacher: A. Robertson.
Room 2 1990
Back Row: D. Winiata, K. Waite, A. Richardson, M. Richardson, M. Wilson.
3rd Row: R. Burton, A. Howard, K. Pattison, P. Hema, R. Brownlie, T. Governor, A. Governor.
2nd Row: A. Turner, B. Albiston, L. Butler, R. Morrell, L. Adsett, J. Shapland, R. Wilson, E. Somerville.
Front Row: G. Chapman, A. Hagan, B. Te Moananui, S. Cotter, C. Munro, R. Tahuri.
Teacher: A. Hardie.
In memory of Jeffery Wearing
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Room 3 1990
Back Row: K. Shapland, L., Waite, Y. Tahuri, A. Howell.
2nd Row: D. Maxwell, V. Smith, L. Tahuri, T. Brownlie, T. Cooper, A. Bestford.
3rd Row: L. Howard, B. Tahuri, K. Moorcock, T. Ferris, J. Whitehead, R. Tahuri, S. Finucane.
Front Row: D. Turner, G. Wilson, C. Proffit, L. VanDooren.
Teacher: F. Proffit.
Room 4 1990
Back Row: M. Nohokau, K. Butler, P. Roberts, S. Akuhata-Brown, A. Hook, K. Tahuri.
2nd Row: L. Morrell, L. Cotter, K. Morrell, D. Adsett, L. Adsett, S. Rangiwai, K. Chapman.
Front Row: C. Richardson, L. VanDooren, K. Howard, R. Somerville
Teacher: J. Bogard.
Room 1 1970 S4-FII
Back Row: Garnham, S. McKinnon, G. Hole, P. Clifton, M. Waihape, E. Mildon, G. Roberts, K. Pegam, T. Edwards, R. Governor, G. Hall
2nd Row: G. Stone, S. Sharp, A. Davy, A. Clifton, L. McClutchie, A. Roberts, C. Hema. A. Carter, S. Little, P. Crofskey, B. Toharihiki, B. McKinnon.
Front Row: R. Andrew, M. Winiata, M. Roberts, S. Garnham, P. Toharihiki, C. Brownlie, D. Owen, L. Wilson, P. Sherp, T. Cotter, J. Kapene
Teacher: D.P.J. Crofskey (Head Teacher).
Page kindly donated by Gemmells Wairoa
Page 66
Room 2 1970 S3-4
Back Row: T. Nicholson, Garnham, T. Tahuri, R. Edwards, B. Mildon, L. Unwin, M. Cotter, C. Lambert, R. Kelliher.
2nd Row: C. Cotter, B. McKinnon, R. Hall, T. Paku, M. Butler, G. McClutchie, A. Brown, R. Sharp, R. Edwards, T. Governor.
Front Row: R. Cameron, D. Governor, S. Taylor, I. Mildon, R. Cotter, R. Edwards, T. Tipoki, C. Owen, H. Wilson, W. Pegram, A. Crofskey.
Teacher: W.B. McKinnon
Room 3 1970 P4-S2
Back Row: M. Morten, R. Rigby, G. Scherp, M. Kapene, R. Smith, J. Robertson, W. Tahuri, M. Carter, W. McClutchie, B. Chapman, L. Governor.
2nd Row: S. Governor, A. Taylor, A. Kilkelly, W. Kapene, E. Smith, C. Lambert, R. Brown, R. Clark, D. Mildon, T. Tipuna.
Front Row: C. McKinnon, D. Cotter, M. Brown, J. Cameron, M. Waihape, L. Ruawai, R. Cotter, A. Sharp, K. Taylor, M. Cotter, F. McKinnon, D. Cotter.
Room 4 1970 Prs.
Back Row: R. Stone, G. Stone, T. Taylor, Z. Roberts, Z. McClutchie, R. Thompson, D. Mildon.
2nd Row: A. Andrew, F. Wilson, M. Thompson, T. Chapman, B. Robertson, J. McClutchie, W. Rigby.
Front Row: W. Rigby, L. Cameron, A Smith, P. Nicholson, R. Harker, J. Te Rangi, H. Cotter.
Page kindly donated by Chamberlain Family
Page 67
FRASERTOWN THE LAST 25 YEARS
VEN PACK N.Z. COMPANY
During 1980 meetings were held in Gisborne, Wairoa and Hastings to gauge the interest in establishing slaughter facilities for the killing of deer and Mr H. R. Davis, Hastings, asked to do a feasibility study.
27th January 1981 a meeting was held in the Wairoa Electric Power Board rooms and a decision made following the tabling of Mr H. R. Davis study that we as a group proceed with the concept of establishing a deer slaughter facility.
It was also resolved that a Private Limited Liability Company be formed, the Company to have 7 Directors, R.E. Somerville, G.E.S. Lowe, J.N.M. Williams, T. Jex-Blake, M.H. Heays, M. Taylor and T. Dever.
Over a period of time sights [sites] in Gisborne, Hastings and Wairoa were given consideration in regards to a suitable area on which to build this facility and on 15th September 1981 an agreement to purchase an area of land from Taylors Farms was made.
Mr P.C. Marks consulting Engineer, Hamilton, was engaged to draw plans and specification.
Applications were made to Rural Bank and the East Coast Regional Development organisations for finance, and granted. Approval to build was granted on 8th December 1981.
W. Hedley & Sons Ltd. were engaged to construct the building and Wairoa Refrigeration in conjunction with Fosters from Gisborne the refrigeration work. Kill capacity of the plant was approximately 50 animals per day, employing 6 people. Building and development of the site was completed 1982-83 and the first deer killed. Approximately 1500 deer were killed 83-84 year, then numbers dropped away as a result of other slaughter operations getting underway in other parts of the country.
Due to insufficient numbers it was difficult to continue as a deer killing enterprise, so on the
1.4.89 an agreement to lease with a right of purchase was entered into with Frasertown Meats.
On the 18.10.89 Ven Pack N.Z. Ltd was wound up as a Company.
SCAMPERDOWN BRIDGE
In 1982 a new double carriage bridge was opened to replace the old wooden one-way structure that had served us for many years.
HEDLEY’S MILL
Nestled beside the big oak tree at the junction of Frasertown, Wairoa, Tiniroto roads, used to stand the Frasertown Timber Mill. In 1970 the final owners W. Hedley & Sons bought the mill from Brian Tews. Hedleys operated the mill until December 1984 when they ceased operating at Frasertown and shifted into Wairoa behind the Timber and Hardware store in North Clyde.
JUNCTION HOTEL
In 1974 Sid and Kath Lambert built a new home to replace the old Junction Hotel which they had lived in for many years. The old building was to be pulled down as soon as the new house was completed. The main road was to be altered to accommodate the new scamperdown bridge, as the Junction Hotel had been right on the road edge it was in the way of progress.
THE LAURELS
In December 1974 the home opposite Colonel Fraser’s, (Pat McKinnon’s), owned by Les Summerfield, was burnt down. Later it was replaced with a new home. The laurel hedge down the side each year provides many leaves for Anzac Wreaths.
COLIN BROWN’S STORE
Owned by the Sharpes the store burnt down in early 1972. In September of that year Earnie and Beth Greaves bought the property. Walls of the old bake-house which were part of the old shop are buried under the flats built by Earnie and Beth on the property and finished in 1975.
HUIA DAIRY
This dairy was built in 1977 by George and Winnie Roberts, Les Summerfield bought it, changed the name to Laurel Dairy and enlarged the building. After Les Summerfield, Helen Stuart bought it, then Judy Johnston. John and Lil Humpreys bought the business and another name change to Lil’s Dairy. In 1991 Janet and Gordon Hall bought and named it Jan’s Dairy as it is today.
Page kindly donated by Bradbury Jeweller
Page 68
F. J. KILKELLY LTD
Frank Kilkelly took over the General Store from Arnie and Gwen Beckett in 1966.
In February, 1988 prior to Cyclone Bola the Post Office closed. The post box and mail boxes were shifted down the street to Kilkelly’s. From their store they sold stamps and envelopes and parcel bags etc, as well as sorting the mail Monday through Friday and cleared the post box each week day afternoon to go to Wairoa.
After 23 years in business the Kilkellys closed in March, 1989. Once again the postal centre was moved, this time to the then Laurel Dairy (now Jan’s Dairy).
In October, 1989 Gerald and Rose Tamati bought the Kilkelly property. They opened the doors again in December, 1989 and called it the Frasertown Store. In 1993, once more the doors closed.
The Frasertown Tavern – September, 1993 – Licensee Paul and Maki Wells
KIWI TRANSPORT LTD
Kiwi Transport Ltd was started by Wyn Whitehead, Frank Evans and Dave Laughton after World War II. Some time later Mike Compton bought out Dave Laughton. Mike Jenkins has now owned the business for the last 20 years continuing to offer the same efficient service to the community and district. Over the last 25 years, there has been a number of changes in the transport industry, one of the most significant being the addition of extra decks to the units, which doubled the stock carrying capacity.
The Metal Pit, had provided a steady income through processing and cartage, was forced to close 14 years ago, when insufficient metal came down the Wairoa and Waiau rivers.
Six staff are employed with an extra in the busy season to drive and service the six trucks.
Kiwi Transport Ltd. Trucks loaded and ready for work.
Page kindly donated by Tim Wealleans Fieldair
Page 69
WAIROA DISTRICT COUNCIL WATER TREATMENT PLANT
STOUT STREET – FRASERTOWN
In 1964 construction started on the Water Treatment Plant at Stout Street, Frasertown. Since the 1930’s water had been pumped from the Waiau River intake into the Wairoa Boundary storage tanks without any treatment. The pipeline went through Frasertown village ready for the construction of the treatment plant. Frasertown received water from this pipeline by means of a small pump situated near the present treatment plant site. Frasertown water was stored in the tanks above the village.
The first stage of the treatment plant was completed in 1965. In 1972-73 the first extensions were carried out including an additional clarifier and filter and extensions to the chemical storage area.
In 1983, 1984 and 1985 further additions were carried out. Construction of the new river intake, just upstream of the old intake site, was started in 1986 and finished in 1987. Also at this time a new filter, additional chemical storage areas and a new booster pump-room and pumps were constructed at the treatment plant.
There are no plans for further upgrading of the plant in the near future. The plant is capable of supplying about 10,000 cubic meters of potable water to Wairoa a day.
FRASERTOWN FIRE PARTY
A meeting in Frasertown on the 17th November 1982 led to the formation of the Frasertown Fire Party.
The first fire fighting gear was a portable pump supplied by the Wairoa County Council in February 1983 and this was mounted on a trailer along with some hoses etc.
In the early years it was a constant struggle to raise funds for equipment and a building.
The Fire Party was given the use of the Frasertown library section by the Wairoa County Council, and the first building was erected in 1984 to house the pump and trailer.
In 1986, a second-hand Land Rover fire unit was supplied by the Wairoa County Council and this was soon in use when fire destroyed the historic McKinnon home in Sutton Street, in September that year.
As the old library building was found to be beyond economic repair, it was given to the Fire Party to dispose of as they saw fit. It was sold for removal about the end of 1988 to make room for a major extension onto the existing building to house a full-size machine.
‘Little Flick’
The Land Rover unit supplied by the Wairoa County Council in 1986.
Page kindly donated by Ray Lyall Chemist Ltd
Page 70
The Frasertown Fire Party purchased their own purpose built fire appliance in November 1988, later to be replaced by the current one in May 1992 this is a very capable dire fighting unit.
One of the highlights for the group was the saving of the pump motors at the Wairoa town water intake during the cyclone ‘BOLA” flood in March 1988. The portable pump was used to prevent flood water rising in the pumping well and swamping the electric motors.
Mary various types of fires have been attended by the Frasertown Fire Party, and thanks to local (and wider) support and a group of keen volunteers, Frasertown has a valuable facility which is still being up-graded as funds permit
The Frasertown Fire Party’s first purpose built machine on the left alongside it’s more modern replacement shown standing in front of the Fire Station. Secretary Larry Grooby attends to the newer machine.
THE CHURCH
On Sunday the 23rd October 1994 Christ Church Frasertown celebrates its centenary. Services are held once a month and during the past 25 years many weddings and christenings have also been celebrated.
Page kindly donated by Wairoa Motor Cycles
Page 71
FRASERTOWN BRIDGE
The bridge was completed in 1970. It took approximately two years to build and it cost $530,000 to build. Today it would cost millions to build.
There were three contractors: Blane Construction did the foundations, Fergusson Construction built the bridge, Easton Construction did the steelwork.
The length is 168m long. The maximum pier height is 18.9m and it is 5 spans.
It is founded on steel driven piles. It has concrete piers, steel plate girders and concrete reinforced deck.
A view of Frasertown taken not long after the new bridge was opened. Shown are the new bridge, the old bridge and alongside that is the temporary Bailey bridge.
Upper left – the old Lambert house (part of which was the Junction Hotel).
Upper middle – the old Scamperdown bridge.
Top right – Putahi Marae and centre – Wairoa Water Treatment Plant.
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[List of names in this title still to be added – HBKB]
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Business / Organisation
Frasertown SchoolFormat of the original
Book paperbackDate published
1993Accession number
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