Mahora School Golden Jubilee 1903 – 1953
JUBILEE PROGRAMME
SATURDAY, 22nd AUGUST:
Get-together and Official Welcome
Assembly Hall at 8 p.m. (Admission 2/6.)
SUNDAY 23rd AUGUST:
Thanksgiving Service at the School at 2.30 p.m.
MONDAY 24th AUGUST:
Jubilee Banquet in the Assembly Hall at 7 p.m. (Admission 15/-.)
WEDNESDAY 26th AUGUST:
Jubilee Ball in the Assembly Hall at 8.30 p.m. (Admission 15/-.)
THURSDAY 27th AUGUST:
Grand Farewell Concert in Municipal Theatre at 8 p.m. (Admission 3/-.)
MAHORA SCHOOL JUBILEE ASSOCIATON [ASSOCIATION]
EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
Patron: MR. S. I. JONES, M.P.
President: MR W. T. CHAPLIN
Vice-president: MR. A. M. ROBERTSON.
Chairman: MR J. A. ENGEBRETSEN
Hon. Secretary: MR. E. SINGLETON.
Hon. Treasurer: MR. BRUCE BAIRD.
Conveners of Committees:
Magazine and Historical: MR. W. T. CHAPLIN.
Ladies: MRS. J. ARRELL.
Billeting: MRS. E. WISE.
Entertainment: MR. R. V. GIORGI.
Publicity: MR. J. DRUMMOND
MAGAZINE AND HISTORICAL COMMITTEE:
Mr. W. T. Chaplin. (Chairman).
Miss M. Lankovsky.
Mrs. L Bickerstaff (Hon. Secretary).
Miss J. Reston.
Mrs. J. Burden.
Mrs. J. Crerar.
Mr. E. Bissell.
Mr. M. Boshier (Photography).
Mrs. P. Drummond.
Mr. P. M. Burden
Mrs. M. Frethey.
Mrs. B. Herlihy.
Mrs. D. Hingston.
Mrs. W. E. Lomas.
Mr. F. J. Cowlrick.
Mr, L. C. C Davis.
Mr. L. N. Dyer.
Mr. J. A. Engebretsen.
Mrs. E. L. Lowe.
Mrs. J. Pain.
Mr. R. E. Glew.
Mr. F. C. Hortop (Photography).
Mrs. A. G. Robertson.
Mrs. G. E. Robins.
Mr. A. Ivey.
Mr. R. W. Chaplin.
Mrs. D. E. Upchurch.
Miss K. Coles.
W. T. Chaplin, Editor.
Miss M. I. Gray.
Mr. F. C. Hortop, Co-Editor.
PUBLICITY COMMITTEE:
Mr. J. Drummond (Chairman).
Mr. R. W. Chaplin.
Mr. M. Boshier.
Mrs. P. Drummond.
FINANCE COMMITTEE:
Mr. B. W. Baird (Chairman).
Mr. P. T. Gifford.
Mr. J. A. Redgrave.
Mr. R. D. Jones.
Mr. H. G. Carr.
Mrs. A. G. Robertson.
LADIES’ COMMITTEE:
Mrs. W. Arrell (Chairman).
Mrs. A. Knowles.
Mrs L Bickerstaff (Hon. Secretary).
Mrs. W. E. Lomas.
Mrs. E. M. Anderson.
Mrs. J. Bayliss.
Mrs. P. M. Burden.
Mrs. I. Crerar.
Mrs. E. L. Lowe.
Mrs. A. G. McConnachie.
Mrs. J. Pain.
Mrs. A. G. Robertson.
Mrs. P. Drummond.
Mrs. M. Frethey.
Mrs. G. E. Robins.
Mrs. M. Ryan.
Mrs. G. Frizzell.
Mrs. H. F. Smith.
Mrs. W. S. Hewitt.
Mrs. T. A. Hill.
Mrs. E. Wise.
Miss D Beckett.
Mrs. G. H. Hunt.
Miss U. Startup.
Mrs. J. Goodall.
Mrs. B. Herlihy.
Mrs. J. Spence.
Mrs. D. E. Upchurch.
Mrs. D. Hingston.
Miss M. Lankovsky.
ENTERTAINMENT COMMITTEE:
(In conjunction with Ladies’ Committee)
Mr. R. V. Giorgi (Chairman).
Mr. J. Spence
Mr. J. Seton (Hon. Secretary).
Mr. R. Spence.
Mr. J. Garnett.
Mr. S. French.
Mr. H. Spence.
Mr. J. Bayliss.
BILLETING COMMITTEE:
Mrs. E. Wise (Chairman).
Miss U. Startup
Mrs. B. Herlihy.
Mr. R. Whitworth.
Mrs. G. H. Hunt.
Mr. F. C. Hortop.
Editorial
The thanks of the Magazine Committee are due to those who contributed manuscripts for publication in the magazine, to those who supplied school photographs for insertion or display, to those who assisted in the typing and clerical work, to those who were in charge of the photographic section, and to the printers for their technical skill in the compilation of this souvenir of our Golden Jubilee.
Amateur journalism may not be easy, but with a committee composed chiefly of enthusiastic ex-pupils and ex-teachers a splendid spirit of co-operation prevailed, and this Jubilee Magazine is the result.
May we hope it may prove of interest to those thousands – over 9000 – of girls and boys whose names have been entered on the school roll during the last fifty years, and to parents and all well-wishers.
THE EDITOR.
WHAT IS A JUBILEE?
A Jubilee is, primarily, a time of Greeting; a time when teachers, old pupils and parents meet together in a feeling of comradeship; when old friendships are renewed after, it may be, ten, twenty, thirty, forty or even more years; when a “pal”, a “cobber” – boy or girl – of former days calls to mind a prank indulged in – and perhaps gloated over at a teacher’s expense.
The hair may have grown thinner, the pate may even be bald, and a few wrinkles may be showing; but if the right spirit-the right Mahora atmosphere – is there, what matter?.
So trip it on the light fantastic toe, and leave dull care behind.
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FOREWORD
When I accepted the invitation of the Jubilee Committee to write a short foreword for this magazine, two features of the school’s fifty years of activity immediately came to my mind. The first was that whoever chose the school motto “Keep on climbing” was blessed with a foresight not given to most of us. The singular progress of your school from its early beginnings in one room to its present position as the largest Primary school in this district proves the motto to be most appropriate. Then, secondly, it is rather unique, I think that all three past headmasters, Mr. W. T. Chaplin, Mr. E. Bissell, and Mr. J. A. Engebretsen, are still living in the district and will be personally associated with these celebrations. To them I offer the Board’s sincere congratulations on their record of service to the school.
It seems to be a corollary that the growth of a school roll brings with it also a growth in community interest, and the fine traditions of Mahora School have not been built up merely by the addition of classrooms. It is the spirit of service which really builds a school, and I would like to pay tribute to all those supporters, who, directly or indirectly have given time, money, and effort, in the best interests of the children.
To the Jubilee Committee which is responsible for the celebrations I extend congratulations. I know that this booklet will be welcomed as a valuable and interesting record, and that the Committee’s activities will stimulate continued interest in the school.
I should also like to thank all past and present teachers for their influence and work, and to express the hope that the present pupils will continue, in future years, to consolidate and expand the achievements of the past.
On behalf of all members of the Board, I assure you of our continued interest and help in your efforts, and confidently wish the school every future success.
A. H. SIVEWRIGHT,
Chairman, Hawke’s Bay Education Board.
THE HON. R. M. ALGIE.
Minister of Education.
A school jubilee has a whole lot to commend it. For one thing, it gives to ex-pupils a golden opportunity for the kind of “get-together” that so many of us quite rightly enjoy.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Eleven
On such occasions we build, in fancy, a bridge over intervening years, and, giving free rein to that remarkable – if somewhat unreliable – human attribute, called Memory, we live all over again the joys and follies, the pranks and failures, as well as the achievements of other days. To meet again those with whom we took – with equal good grace, I hope – a compliment or a caning from some never-to-be-forgotten teacher; to swop [swap] a yarn or two, good, bad or indifferent; to see, perchance, someone we might have married if he or she had, luckily or unluckily, thought on similar lines – these are but some of the joys of a school reunion. Then, too, there is the advance made by the “old school” itself. Some ex-pupils will remember the one room building in which it all began in 1903. Additions came along as rapidly as the children themselves in 1905, 1908, 1912, 1915, and so on and on till we have the present buildings of 22 classrooms, and 23 teachers, and roughly 850 scholars. What matter if some of these rooms are old, or “portable”, or prefabricated? It is not the rooms that make a school, indispensable though they may be. On the contrary, it’s that undefinable thing called the spirit that we catch while we are there and take away with us when we depart. That’s what matters: that’s what makes our education what we would wish it to be.
To all who gather during those few happy days in August, may I tender this brief message of goodwill, I hope their visit to this scholastic home of their youth will be filled with genuine pleasure. I hope they will all wear – without blushing – the badge that assigns them to a given age group, and a date in school history; and I would wish them many more birthdays with happiness and good health to ponder over and talk about the cheerful days of this, their school’s, fiftieth jubilee.
THE HON. K. J. HOLYOAKE,
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture.
I am very pleased that this Jubilee Magazine is being published, and also – as an old boy – grateful that I have a chance to pay my tribute to those who were in charge and guided the destines [destinies] of all of us pupils while I was attending the Mahora School.
One year was the span of my attendance at the Mahora School. This may not seem a long time, but when a boy is
Page Twelve MAHORA SCHOOL
very young, a year, and that year’s impressions, may mean much.
It is many years ago now, but I am sure that my year at Mahora, and the influence of that splendid teacher. Miss Gray, held nothing but good for me. Equally I am sure that Mahora is continuing to exert a fine influence on hundreds of those young folk who will be the New Zealand citizens of the future.
In helping to form the characters of youngsters who will be the workers, the professional men, and the administrators of this young Dominion, our schools have a great responsibility and a great privilege. New Zealand is small by world standards, but it has a voice and an influence on Commonwealth and world affairs far greater than its size.
We have a splendid little country, and we have more than that. We have a progressive tradition which includes a strong feeling for humanity. New Zealand has achieved world leadership, in point of time at least, in many social measures and in humanitarian administration.
To the youngsters coming on, I would say this: We must not rest on our laurels, but must continue to be leaders in all those things which make for better living and better understanding of our fellow men.
To achieve this, young New Zealanders must go out into the adult world well equipped – not only to do our job well, but also knowing how to live with our fellows.
I believe that our schools generally are achieving this wider education. From my own experience. I am sure that this applies to Mahora.
MR. R. D. BROWN – MAYOR OF HASTINGS
I am sure all citizens of Hastings will be anxious to congratulate Mahora School on its 50 Year Jubilee, and I am glad on their behalf to extend to the Committee responsible, the most hearty felicitations on having attained this milestone in the history of the School, and on the arrangements made to mark the occasion.
That the standard set throughout the span of years has been high, and the work of the Masters well done, is evidenced by the success achieved in both public and private life, by so many of the men and women who received their primary education at Mahora. Some have given outstanding service in this town and district, others further afield, but wherever
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Thirteen
their lot in life may have led them, they will, I am sure, have a warm corner in their hearts for their old School, and a sense of gratitude for all it did for them in their formative years.
At this Jubilee, old friendships, some treasured over the years, other long-forgotten, will be renewed with zest and pleasure to all.
I know that the Committee concerned is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the success of the various functions connected with the Jubilee, and I am sure that your enjoyment of them, and the friendships thus cemented, will provide a lasting and happy memory for all of you. Hastings people will share with you your pleasure and pride in these old associations. Welcome to your old home town.
MR. S. I. JONES, M.P.
I know that the contributions to the Jubilee Magazine will be mostly reminiscenses, and when I was asked to write something I had ideas of taking a new line. But the temptation to look back on the past was, as it is with all of us, too strong for me and I’m going to “reminisce” with the rest. There’s no such word, but I’m hoping that the Editor will grant me Jubilee licence.
As a very small boy I was one of the crowd which gathered on the school ground on the Saturday before opening day. I think it was a Saturday; anyway it was not a school day. Why was I there? Well, there was a free afternoon tea.
My first official association with the school was in February 1911, when I joined it as a pupil teacher. I was one of three. The other two decided some years later that teaching was not their life work, and took up what the census form describes as home duties. I have no doubt that we were all as green as grass, but I shall never cease to claim that under Mr. Chaplin’s guidance and help we did learn the rudiments of our job.
The school then consisted of two detached buildings, and what was called a playshed. One building housed Standards Five and Six, in one room, and Standards Three and Four, in the other. The second housed Standards one and two, and the infant classes. In my first year I “assisted” Mr. Chaplin, and Miss Ross in the standards. At odd times I took a class in the shed. In my second year, another classroom having been built, I had Standard Two as my own empire, and by the time honoured method of “trial and error” I probably learned more about teaching than in any succeeding year.
Page Fourteen MAHORA SCHOOL
Mr. Chaplin would come in once a day, Sometimes he would stay a minute, sometimes five minutes or longer. Many times he said nothing; then I knew he was satisfied. I wouldn’t have changed places with a king.
Lunch time’s and after school were spent on the playing fields. In summer we played cricket, and in winter, I think, it was football three days of the week and hockey the other two. I have no intention of mentioning names, but I can’t forget the two Grensides, Monty and Bert, the three Mitchells, Gerry, Errol, and Sid, and the two Hortons, Pat and Mick who sharpened up any team. On one afternoon a week we went to Cornwall Park and were taught the off drive by Jack Board, the Gloucestershire professional. When Sid Mitchell thought it was time to catch the train to Tomoana he would deliberately pull the coach’s offside bowling, and would be cast into outer darkness. He then caught the train.
The School Annual Ball was held in the Drill Hall and for some weeks, after school, we practised the latest steps on the asphalt tennis court to the strains of the organ. It’s little wonder that I can still push or pull seven children or adults through the Lancers. I learned in a hard school. Winnie and Hilda Sinclair, Mary Heeney and Gwen Reston were star performers.
I could go on almost indefinitely, but I know the value of magazine space. Suffice it to say that it was with great regret that I left Mahora at the end of 1912 and went to Training College. The school I saw when I came back to Hastings in 1926 was very different from the school of 1911. The growth between 1926 and 1953 has been no less marked, and its reputation is no less high.
I like to think that even now when I visit the school I am going back home.
MR. A. G. HARPER, Secretary for Internal Affairs.
As an old boy of Mahora School I deem it a great privilege to be asked to write a few paragraphs for the Jubilee Magazine.
Although, unfortunately, we do not always realise it at the time, our school days are some of the happiest days of our lives. Those of us who were privileged to spend our earlier days at Mahora School are no exception to this rule.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Fifteen
The approach of the Mahora School Jubilee Celebrations gives us the opportunity of living again some of those happy days and, particularly, of measuring in more precise terms the value of the early training there and the lasting friendships then made.
Mahora School is typical of so many of the educational and other institutions that have built up our national life. From small beginnings, i.e., a few modest class-rooms, very few amenities, and a few pupils, in a sparsely-populated suburb, this school has grown today to the proud position it occupies in a rapidly growing residential area.
From its very beginnings, however, the school was fortunate in having leaders of wide vision imbued with a deep sense of their responsibilities to the community. They saw the citizens of the future in the children under their care and set out to develop to the full their mental, moral, recreational and social outlook. Many of us today can look back with satisfaction on teachers whom we liked and respected, lessons with which we struggled and wondered, examinations that we faced and feared, games that we played in an undeveloped paddock and thoroughly enjoyed, social activities that helped us to take a better place in community activities. In short, we can look back upon hard school days with a feeling of real happiness.
These memories, always with us, become more real as the Jubilee Celebrations approach and give us a feeling of pride and gratitude for the achievements of this “suburban” school.
I express the hope that Mahora scholars of this generation will inherit the same feelings and that they, in turn, in another 50 years time, will be able similarly to look back with pride and satisfaction upon the achievements of their era. It is thus that Mahora School will be able in time to build up the tradition that, I know, is so earnestly desired by those fostering the present Celebrations, and fully justify the motto “Piki Haere”.
I congratulate all those who have organised these Celebrations and know I am giving expression to so many feelings when I thank them sincerely for providing this opportunity for so many of us to renew the happy associations of our youth.
May the Mahora School Celebrations be successful in every respect.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Seventeen
RETROSPECT
(By W. T. Chaplin, Headmaster 1903-1932.)
THE BIRTH OF A SCHOOL
August 24th. 1903. Fifty years ago the newly appointed master of Mahora School stood on the front steps of the recently erected school and gazed eastward in the direction of the Tomoana Freezing Works. What did he see? A vast extent of land with sheep and cattle grazing contentedly almost as far as the eye could see. The huge paddock immediately opposite the school – bounded by Frederick Street, Tomoana Road. Boundary Road (now Williams’ Street) and Pakowhai Road – had on it only two houses, both fronting Tomoana Road, one occupied by Mrs. Bowen and the other by Mr Jack Walden. Konini Street and Waipuna Street had no existence – probably they had not even been surveyed.
To the northward was the Mahora settlement, a large area of land formerly owned by Mr. J. N. Williams of Frimley. This had been purchased and cut up into farms by the Seddon Government, and acquired by ballot on the Lease in Perpetuity system. The lucky balloters turned their attention to dairying and fruit growing. Mr. A. M. Robertson, Chairman of the School Committee (1909-1918) was one of the latter.
Looking in a southerly direction towards Hastings and across to Stortford Lodge large areas of unoccupied land could be seen with a house dotted here and there. The only residence between the railway stationmaster’s house in Nelson Street and Mahora School was Mr. C. R. Hortop’s in Tomoana Road, just past Cornwall Park. To the west along Fitzroy Avenue, was Mr. G. D. Love’s house. Recently in renewing my acquaintance with this area, I was lost in the maze of new streets and houses – streets laid out on modern lines, and houses with neatly kept lawns, making a very attractive residential quarter.
CORNWALL PARK
Cornwall Park was merely a grazing paddock for bullocks and sheep. Coming from Hastings and taking a short cut to school across the Park, one had to jump the creeks (if not swollen by rain) and often wade through long grass. A scramble through the hedge and wire fence brought one to the Tomoana Road.
ROADS AND PATHS
Roads in wet weather were an abomination to the pedestrian, and necessitated the wearing of leggings or gum boots.
Photo caption – THE FIRST SCHOOL
Paths outside Heretaunga Street were only tracks made by walkers, and useless in wet weather. A bicycle – if one were lucky enough to own such a luxury – was liable to be clogged by sticky mud. Then the cyclist hunted for a piece of stick, cleared the obstruction and once more peddled on. This is what teacher and pupil often had to endure. But they were pretty tough in those days!
MAHORA SCHOOL IS BUILT
Most of the Mahora settlers were young, with growing families. For a long time before Mahora School was opened, children had to trudge three or four miles to the Hastings or Catholic School, and another three or four home again. No bicycles for children in those days. Lucky if a child got a “double” (or a “treble”) on an old horse, in a gig or dray. No wonder parents soon agitated for a school in the district. But it took a long time to convince the Board of Education that the district could muster thirty children of school age. In Mr. J. C. Cairns, however, the residents had an energetic and forceful Scotchman as spokesman, and he wouldn’t take No for an answer. So in 1903 an area of one acre of land was acquired from Mr. J. N. Williams, and a one-roomed school, with porch and school bell – was built. (Some pioneers will remember that bell.)
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Nineteen
THE FIRST SCHOOL COMMITTEE
The “Hastings Standard” (forerunner of “Tribune” and “Herald-Tribune”) of 1903 – reported, “At the April meeting of householders the first School Committee was elected, comprising: – Messrs. J. C. Baird, J. C. Cairns, W. H. Doggett, J. B. E. Hird, G. D. Love, J. Reston and W. Sinclair. Mr. Cairns was elected Chairman, and Mr. Love Secretary.”
“The first business of the meeting was to have a well sunk, and a post and wire fence put up to enclose the acre.”
“On June 24, 1903, the Committee met and unanimously chose Mr. W. T. Chaplin as schoolmaster, out of ten applicants.”
Photo caption – STAFF 1914.
Standlng: Miss G. M. Pringle, Miss F. M. Channon, Mr J. W. Clapham, Miss E. Hill, Mr. F. Mardon.
Sitting: Miss M. I. Gray, Mr W. T, Chaplin, Miss M. Ross.
THE PIONEERS
To the surprise of many Hastings and Mahora people 52 children mustered on the opening day. Monday, August 24. On the previous Saturday a gala had been held for the children, and in the evening a dance in the schoolroom was much appreciated. But on Monday the chairman decided that as the school and playground were littered with rubbish,
Page Twenty MAHORA SCHOOL
the children should be dismissed after their names had been taken, so, as the “Standard” said, “To the delight of the children, Mahora School began work by having a holiday”. Work-through-play must have been in the air fifty years ago!
August 25th was a hectic day for the new master, as 62 children put in an appearance. They ranged from five years to 15 years of age. Luckily he was used to the work, though not on quite such a big scale. The children were soon classified, and then with the help of monitors (chosen rather at random on the first day) real work began. Relief came on September 17 (for three and a half weeks I had had sole charge) when 74 children were on the roll. Miss Burness took charge of the lower part of the school till October 12, when Miss G. Gray came as relieving teacher. Finally on November 2 Miss M. I. Gray started as Infant Mistress, a position she held at Mahora, with one break, for 21 years.
Miss Gray’s value to the school was incalculable. A zealous, kindly and untiring worker for the good of her infants, she gave them a sound foundation for further progress.
RAPID GROWTH OF SCHOOL
The table given on page 53 will indicate the growth of the school over a period of fifty years. The maximum roll number was 924, but with the opening of Mayfair and Frimley Schools the roll number has fallen considerably.
CO-ORDINATION OF HEADMASTER, STAFF, SCHOOL COMMITTEE AND PARENTS
On my entry into Mahora School the first thought that was uppermost in my mind was the necessity of obtaining the willing co-operation of all concerned with the school s activities. Now, after fifty years, I look back with greatest pleasure on my 29 years service as headmaster. During that period I cannot recollect a single instance of rancour or ill-will from any of my school associates. The lower part of the school was served by Infant Mistresses highly skilled in their very exacting work. Standard Six pupils were fortunate in having men or women assistants who were second to none. They gave freely of their time after school hours to assist in the boys and girls games, and never complained of the time thus spent. The appreciation of the boys and girls was their reward. Between Infants and Standard Six were young, energetic and adaptable teachers ever ready to learn and also to assist in games after school hours. What more could a headmaster wish?
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Twenty-one
School Committees came and went, but each Committee proved itself to be out to do the best it could – collectively or individually – for the good of the school. Outstanding enthusiasts were Mr. A. M, Robertson, who was chairman for nine years, and Mr. C. Lassen, who served 20 years (18 years as chairman).
The work of Mahora School parents used to be the envy of other organizations. The Ladies’ Committee received a special vote of thanks 50 years ago for their work at the gala on August 21, 1903. The Hastings Standard said. “The ladies are to be congratulated on the way in which their work was appreciated.”
And so it has gone on for 50 years; and let us hope that the same enthusiasm from teachers, Committeemen and parents will prevail for another 50 years. Co-ordination works wonders.
Photo captions –
MR. A. M. ROBERTSON
MR C. LASSEN
THE AIM OF THE SCHOOL
The formation and development of character was my aim throughout my period of service, and also, I believe, of those teachers who taught with me. Formation of character is not a mere highsounding phrase.
It embraces honesty,
Page Twenty-two MAHORA SCHOOL
perserverance, thoroughness, kindliness, cheerfulness, cleanliness of person and habits, consideration for and willingness to help the less fortunate. With these characteristics as a foundation there will be no need to worry about examination passes at the end of the year. Your pupils will have responded to your efforts.
EARLIEST DAYS
By MISS M. I. GRAY, First Infant Mistress
On November 1, 1903 I saw Mahora School for the first time and made the acquaintance of the Head Master, Mr. W. T. Chaplin who had opened the school on August 24 of the same year. The Head soon became very popular with the parents, children and staff, and continued to do so until he retired.
We had one room, and a small porch where I tried to teach one class and keep my eye on the remainder of my pupils who were inside. When the weather became warmer we spent most of the time outside. Later on, after worrying the Education Board for months for more room, we were presented with a marquee up in the play ground, and I am sure many of my ex-pupils will remember those days. I think that was in 1905, and later another room was built. Since then the buildings have altered beyond all recognition. Not the least of the changes were the Swimming Baths, which soon became very popular with the children and residents who lived near.
There were many changes during the years I spent at Mahora, and also since I retired at the end of 1927. The original pupils will scarcely recognise the place, when they think of what it was like when they first attended, as it is now one of the biggest schools around Hastings. Much credit is due to the Staffs and School Committees for the work that has been carried out during the 50 years since opening-day.
Photo caption – MISS M. I. GRAY
1933-1940
MR. E. BISSELL, Headmaster 1933-1940
Forty eight years teaching in Hawke’s Bay is a record I am proud of, and my educational path was an easy one, particularly my last eight years at Mahora. My first
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Twenty-three
acquaintance with Mahora was as an Acting Inspector of Schools. I accompanied the late Mr. McCaskill and Mr. P. G. Lewis, and my first teachers examined Mr. Keith Hepburn and Mr. Harry Priestly. Mr. W. T. Chaplin was headmaster and he had a fine staff of teachers. Two years after the ‘Quake, I was recommended and appointed as Head Master of Mahora. I wondered whether I could maintain the high standard of efficiency established by Mr. Chaplin but thanks to a loyal and able staff of teachers my task of “steering the ship” was an easy one. My trustworthy and capable Lieutenants were Mr. H. Cornes (1st Assistant). Miss W. Satchell (Infant Mistress) and Miss S. Donnelly (Sports Mistress). Mr. Cornes was Acting Head Master on my arrival, Mr. W. T. Chaplin having retired, leaving one of the best schools in the Hawke’s Bay district – an achievement by Mr. Chaplin after many years of the work he loved. Under the old Proficiency Examination, thanks to Miss Donnelly and Mr. Cornes, Standard 6 – or Form II – did not record a failure, all pupils gaining a Proficiency or
Photo caption – STAFF GROUP 1930
Back row; Misses V. I. Montgomery, H. A. Miller, I. Stevenson, Messrs K. Hepburn, E. E. S. McNaughton; Misses M. J. Nelson, M. E. Bullen, E. Oxenham.
Middle row: Miss S. Donnelly, Mr L. Craven, Miss I. Cormack, Mr W. T. Chaplin, Mr H. A. Cornes, Miss F. A. Epps, Mr H. J. Priestly.
Front row: Misses O. A. Lankovsky, G. M. Colello, I. E. Curry.
Page Twenty-four MAHORA SCHOOL
Competency, and owing to my having the same staff for some years, the high standard of work was I think maintained. Well do I remember the Old School Balls, and the lovely Folk Dances, and Tableaux. Alice in Wonderland staged in the Municipal Theatre, and the many festivities and concerts (An Epic of the Southern Cross) held in connection with Mahora School. As for sports the school teams were practically invincible, boys and girls excelling themselves at swimming, basketball, athletics, cricket and football. This was the result of “team spirit” and healthy rivalry. Notable champions were Brian Bridge and Nola Jones (swimming), Isabel Corby (athletics) and Keith Dyer (boxing).
My Headmastership at Mahora was not marred by misunderstandings thanks to my outstanding Ladies’ Social Committee and my loyal and hard working School Committee headed by Mr. Chris. Lassen. I look back with extreme pleasure on my eight years at Mahora.
“PIKI HAERE”
1941-1951
MR. J. A. ENGEBRETSEN. Headmaster 1941-1951
My term of just over ten years was one of gradual expansion, due in the main to the extensive housing programme undertaken in the vicinity of the school. When I became headmaster in 1941, the State houses in Mairangi Street were being built and the twelve rooms in the main school were sufficient to house the pupils. Towards the end of that year, the roll had risen to 571 and one of the “tin shed” rooms was brought into use. A reference to page 53 in the magazine will show the classrooms built from 1946 to 1949. The school boundaries were altered, which meant that 70 pupils were transferred to Raureka (Hastings West) and about 100 to the new Mayfair School.
More land at the back of the school was acquired a few years ago but, by no stretch of imagination, can the present playing area, now 6 3/4 acres, be regarded as adequate. Yes, the years 1941-1949 saw an increase of 400 in the school roll after nearly 200 had been transferred to other schools. Truly a period of remarkable growth.
Any difficulties that arise are easily surmounted by the co-operation of the Education Board, School committee, Staff and parents. This co-operation it was my privilege to enjoy to the fullest, so that I can now look back on my association with the school as the most pleasant in my teaching career.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Twenty-five
The work of the various committees, especially the Ladies’ Committee, is deserving of special mention. Without their co-operation, functions such as Parents’ Days. Shops, and Gala Days would not have been so successful. It was in 1948 that the first Gala Day was held to raise funds for the Memorial Swimming Pool. Several have been held since, so that the necessary money – over £1000 – is now in hand to carry out the work. I well remember the first two Gala Days and the excellent work of the secretary of the Committee, Mr. J. Drummond, whose organising ability was outstanding.
In 1941 there were twelve assistants on the staff, but, with the rapid growth of the school, the number in 1949 had risen to twenty six, counting the clerical assistants and the two dental nurses.
Over the years, many outstanding teachers have served on the staff of this school and I refer specially to three, Miss W. Satchell, Infant Mistress, retired in 1947 after fifteen years on the staff. Miss S. Donnelly, Senior Lady Assistant, in 1948, after twenty one years. Mr. H. A. Cornes, First Assistant, in 1949, after twenty three years on the staff.
Previous to 1942, the pupils had to attend the one dental clinic at the Central School, but in February of that year, the present clinic was opened at Mahora. The committee had to find half the cost of equipping it and this was done largely by the children themselves who raised approximately £100 per medium of two “shops”. Mahora was thus the first school in Hawke’s Bay, if not in New Zealand, to have its own clinic.
The children have always been jealous of the reputation of their school and always will be. The future is in their hands, and I know that they will certainly carry out their part in maintaining the tradition of the past.
Photo caption – MISS N. SATCHELL
DO YOU REMEMBER?
Do you remember the Magic Lantern entertainments shown by the headmaster.?
Photo caption – THE STAFF, 1953
Back Row. Miss J. McDonell, Mr. W. Ballantyne, Mr. L. Crisp, Mr. D. Harris, Mrs D Price
Middle Row: Nurse M. Crawley, Miss O. McNeill, Miss J. Lamberg, Mr. M. Taylor, Mr. R. Delany, Mrs. E. Chappell, Miss J. Duigan, Mrs. M. Bark
Front Row: Miss G. Matthews, Mr. A. D. Wallace, Miss K. Coles, Mr. A. Ivey, Mr G. H. Bell, Miss V. Death, Mrs. D. Hingston, Mrs. E. Townshend.
Insets: Left, Mrs. E. Jans. Right, Miss M. Lankovsky
MAHORA SCHOOL TODAY
MR. A. IVEY, Headmaster. 1951-1953
I became Headmaster of Mahora School on 22nd May, 1951, following the retirement of Mr. J. A. Engebretsen.
The roll increased steadily throughout the year till at the end of 1951 it was over 900. We were using the twelve rooms of the main school, nine temporary rooms and St. John’s Church Hall. There were 23 teachers on the staff as well as a dental nurse and a clerical assistant.
This increase in the size of the school roll was in spite of the area zoned off to the new school at Mayfair.
At the end of the first term in 1952 a further large area was zoned off to the new school at Frimley and about 164 children were transferred immediately.
To date over 9000 pupils have passed through the school. There is a fine tradition built up, and fine public support for our many activities. On Gala Days the grounds are like a Gypsy encampment thronged with people. Whenever anything is required, parents, ex-pupiis and friends of the school get together to discuss, organize and carry out the programme.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Twenty-seven
Our buildings are filled with youth and vigour. Over the years education has changed, as indeed it must if it is to be a living force in a progressive community. It is not so much the content of the syllabus that has been altered as the methods of dealing with it. Perhaps the most significant change is the official recognition of the vast differences between individual children. The stress is on the treatment of the child rather than the subject.
Modern times, with enriched experience, have brought about a superficial change in the children, but I strongly suspect that we have the same types that there were fifty years ago. It takes all sorts to make a world.
We hope that the Jubilee Celebrations will bring many old friends together, stir up happy memories of days at the school, arouse further enthusiasm for the welfare of the school and add another chapter to its proud tradition.
CHAIRMEN OF SCHOOL COMMITTEES
1903-04 MR. J. C. CAIRNS
1904-09 MR J. B. E. HIRD
1909-18 MR. A. M. ROBERTSON
1918-19 MR. S. C. LOWE
1919-23 MR. A. W. HAMILTON
1923-24 MR. T. B. McNEIL
1924-25 MR. F. J. COWLRICK
1925-29 MR. C. LASSEN
1929-30 MR. G. McCORMICK
1930-44 MR. C. LASSEN
1944-50 MR. M. PARKHILL
1950-52 MR. J. DRUMMOND
1952-53 MR. J. HOLDERNESS
1953- MR. S. G. CHAPLIN
Note. – Owing to the loss of School Committee Minute books from 1903 to 1920 it was found impossible to record a satisfactory list of committeemen.
MR. J. C. CAIRNS
Mr. J. C. Cairns was the first chairman of the Mahora School Committee, elected in April, 1903, He first began an agitation for a school for the Mahora and Tomoana settlers, and it was largely owing to his efforts that the school was established.
MR. A. M. ROBERTSON
Mr. A, M. Robertson was chairman of the School Committee for nine years (1909-18). With the school in its infancy he did his utmost to advance its interest. Children of his time will remember the cases of apples be supplied gratuitously to them; and teachers and parents had reason to thank him for his voluntary work in spraying the whole school with his power spraying plant during the outbreak of infantile paralysis in March, 1916.
MR. C. LASSEN
Mr. C. Lassen served on the Mahora School Committee for 20 years – 2 years as committeeman (1923-24) and 18 years as chairman (1925-29, 1930-44). Whatever the requirements of the headmaster he was always on call to give them the fullest attention. His unflagging zeal, in co-operation with the staff, was a potent factor, year after year, in the progress and development of the school.
Photo caption – A GROUP AT SCHOOL PICNIC, POLO GROUNDS, 1922
LADIES’ SOCIAL COMMITTEE
Ladies’ Social Committee – At once scores of names associated with these committees, over the fifty years, come to mind – Mesdames Crawford, A. Beach, W. Wyatt, J. Wise, C. Lassen, M. Mitchell, – . Simpson, F. Cowlrick, J. Arrell, J. Drummond, H. F. Smith, J. Bickerstaff, J. Aqnew, H. Baird, M. Parkhill, C. Sheffield, and many others.
The Jubilee Magazine would indeed be incomplete without mention of these grand workers.
In the following paragraphs sent in by members of various committees, some idea of the numerous activities of these ladies can be gleaned.
Mrs. A. Beach. In the early days when I worked on the school committees, we raised money by various means such as shop days, competitions, and annual school balls, to provide funds for the school baths, firewood etc. Mr. W. Horne, who was in the employ of Mr. W. Nelson, asked him for a donation, which he promised when we raised the required amount less £50. The World War came along and we had to postpone the Baths Fund. When the War Was over, we continued, and Mr. Nelson kept his promise and completed the amount by donating £50 to make up the £900. Later, the Ladies Social Committee came into being, and we had a regular series of card and dance evenings, which continued for many years. We bought and presented a piano to the school. The 21st birthday of the school was a very happy occasion. It was held as a re-union of old pupils and friends and was so popular that it was an annual event for many years.
Mrs. M. Mitchell – Baths Committee. Our committee included Mesdames Chaplin, Millar (ex-Mayoress), W. Richmond, Fern and others. A big bazaar was decided on, which proved a huge success, making a sum large enough to make the baths a reality. The effort was well worthwhile, although many of us worked very hard, sometimes till late at night, but everyone was so happy and united that actually we enjoyed ourselves. The bazaar opened in the afternoon and continued until 7.30 p.m. when we closed for a short period to attend a concert held in one of the larger rooms, which was packed to the door – a great number could not get in. After the concert we re-opened our stalls and sold out every thing, feeling very well satisfied with the result.
Mrs. Daisy Horn. During my days, and no doubt from there on, the members of the Ladies’ Committee did not have any friction or difficulty within their ranks, and enjoyed working for the school, in which they were interested. It may have been hard work, but this was enjoyed and fully repaid by the success of the endeavours.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Twenty-nine
There were certainly odd mishaps. I remember an instance of extra coffee being urgently required at one of the social gatherings. When this was produced, instead of being the normal colour, it was a bright green. The mystery was never solved, but for sometime afterwards the whole matter was hard live down.
Mrs. A. Wilkie. Mrs. Wilkie recalls in a telephone interview the efforts of the Ladies Committee to raise funds for the Dental Clinic. Over £80 was raised by the sale of home-made sweets (mostly). It was at a time when sugar was in short supply and it was through the very strenuous work put in by an energetic Ladies’ Committee that such a large sum was raised. Only after the money had been raised was the humorous side of the situation realized – A Dental Clinic established with money raised from the sale of sweets!
Mrs. Lowe. Mrs. Lowe remembers clearly the school balls and the wonderful work of the social Committee in preparing sumptuous suppers for the children. She will never forget one particular ball when many apples had been donated. These were peeled and placed along the supper tables, already laden with all the dainties that appeal to children. What was her astonishment when she saw her small son (brought up in an apple orchard), quite unimpressed by all the party-fare, and having a couple of apples and nothing more for his supper!
Mrs. J. Arrell. In 1948 Mahora School inaugurated a Gala Committee and decided to hold a Gala Day to raise funds to provide equipment and amenities for the school – principally for a Memorial Learners Pool. This Gala Day has been made an annual event, and has always been an outstanding success. My association as convener of the Ladies Committee has been a happy one in all the functions we have undertaken.
THE HEADMASTER REMEMBERS
It was in the year 1905. After school the Headmaster jumped on his old bike and started to cycle along the path – a mere foot track in those days – in a westerly direction. Glancing towards two Standard Six girls, who were walking on the road he failed to notice a drain running out of the school grounds across the path. Result, the bicycle turned a somersault – and so did the headmaster, to the enjoyment of the two girls, L.P. and J.W. Now, who were they? Would you believe it? the headmaster enjoyed the joke too, although at his own expense.
They were good friends were P.B. and F.D. One morning F.D. arrived at school with his face well and truly bandaged. “Hullo! what’s wrong?” asked the Head. “Please sir: I was kicked by a horse,” was the reply.
It was some years later before P.B. disclosed the truth. The two boys had had a quarrel, and had fought it out in the Duke Street Quarry before admiring partisans. Who remembers the shingle pit, reputed to be the scene of many a school boy fight?
It was a brilliant try. It happended [happened] many years ago. Two of the keenest footballers had picked sides. and were playing a fast and exciting game on the school grounds. At last the ball bounced into the hands of E.T. Like a streak he was off! He had never run so fast in his life. None seemed able to stop him! Proudly he grounded the ball between the posts. His first try! But why were the other boys laughing at him? He had run the wrong way!
Page Thirty MAHORA SCHOOL
PERMANENT TEACHING STAFF
1903 Mr. W. T. Chaplin
Miss M. I. Gray
1908 Mr. T. S. Atkinson
1910 Mr. J. W. Clapham
Miss M. Ross
1914 Miss F. Earl
Mr. J. E. Douglas
Mr. J. Olley
1915 Miss N. M. Dunning
Miss N. Tuohy
Miss B. Sinclair
1917 Miss E. D. Brittain
Miss D. Retemeyer
Miss K. Dallas
Miss G. Gray
Mrs. D. White
1919 Miss A. Heir
1920 Mr. A. Lake
Miss C. Dallas
Mrs. J. Melton
Miss E. Sinclair
1921 Miss A. Gorman
Miss D. A. Frude
1922 Miss F. A. Epps
Mr. W. Blight
1923 Miss I. Wiseman
Mr. C. A. Boyle
Miss J. T. Graham
Miss B. C. Kinaston
1924 Miss M. I. Gray
Miss R. Hodgson
Mr. W. J. Driller
Mr. D. L. Smart
1925 Miss J. A. Dick
Miss E. M. Briggs
Miss L. C. Ashcroft
Miss M. A. Bullen
1926 Mr. W. E. Rose
Miss A. R. Thomas
Miss D. M. Goldfinch
Mr. H. A. Cornes
Miss A. M. Bernsten
1927 Miss O. Lankovsky
1928 Miss I. McCormick
Miss S. Donnelly
Mr. K. Hepburn
Miss E. Oxenham
Miss V. I. Montgomery
Mr. L. Craven
1929 Miss D. E. Edwards
1930 Miss H. A. Miller
Miss I. Stevenson
Miss C. M. Colello
Mr. H. J. Priestly
1931 Miss D. R. Crumpton
Mr. -. Priest
Miss P.R. Macdonald
1932
Mr. W. E. Rose
Miss A. J. Clayton
Miss W. Satchell
1933 Mr. E. Bissell
1934 Miss P. Robertson
Miss M. Pownall
Miss A. E. Eglinton
Mr. J. Chadwick
1935 Mrs. E. McDonnell
Miss C. I. Smith
1936 Mr. G. Anderson
1937 Miss M. Black
Miss Wastney
Miss I. Curry
Miss Y. C. Hay
1938 Mr. J. G. Miers
Miss E. Westerman
Miss M. Doherty
Mr. J. Redmond
Miss E. W. Chalmers
1939 Mr. P. Cooke
Miss D. Martin
1940 Miss M. Russell
Mr. W. H. Blaikie
Mr. F. J. Ness
Miss A. R. Tottman
1941 Mr. J. A. Engebretsen
1942 Mrs. McNeilly
1943 Miss A. Whyte
Miss K. Tate
Miss N. Nicholson
Miss E. Wills
1944 Mr. J. Grant
Mrs. C. Walker
Miss T. Bird
1945 Miss I. Goldstone
Mrs. R. M. Bark
Miss J. Lamberg
Mrs. M. Frethey
1946 Mr. R. Hill
Mr. F. Frederickson
Miss J. Key
Mr. I. Talbot
Miss W. Rigg
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Thirty-one
PERMANENT TEACHING STAFF (continued)
1947 Mr. T. Chipper
Miss S. Quinn
Mrs. J. Templeman
Miss Chapman
Miss K. Coles
1948 Mr. A. D. Wallace
Mrs. V. R. Peach
Miss B. A. Sharpin
Miss J. McDonell
1949 Miss M. Lankovsky
Miss E. Meffan
Miss J. Hodges
Mrs. S. Nelson
Mr. A. Henderson
Mrs. D. Hingston
Mrs. V. I. Death
Miss G. Matthews
1950 Mr. J. A. Curran
Mr. K. Pound
Mr. G. H. Bell
Mr. J. Ferry
Miss P. H. Steele
1951 Mr. A. Ivey
Mrs. D. Price
Mrs. W. D. Sviatko
Mrs. J. McCreedy
Mr. R. Delany
1952 Miss B. D. Howard
Mrs. E. Townshend
Mr. M. Taylor
1953 Mr. W. Ballantyne
Miss O. McNeill
PUPIL TEACHERS, PROBATIONERS OR PROBATIONERY ASSISTANTS
1903-1932
1906, Miss V. Wilson; 1907, Miss E. Burton, Miss I. Brown; 1909, Miss J. Ramsay, Miss A. Brogan; 1911, Mr. S. I. Jones, Miss O. Greene, Miss E. Hill; 1913, Miss F. M. Channon, Miss G. M. Pringle, Mr. F. H. Mardon; 1915, Miss M. Castle, Miss M. A. Butler; 1916, Miss A. R. Jackson; 1920, Miss E. L. Sear; 1921, Mr. E. R. Hawthorne, Miss L. Lowe; 1922, Miss G. R. Smith, Miss M. L. McDonald, Mr. W. V. Hobin, Mr. J. A. Andrews, Miss L. M. Wyatt; 1923 Mr. I. Johnston, Miss G. R. Hawley, Miss K. E. Bishop; 1924, Miss A. E. Eglinton, Mr. C. R. Horton, Mr. I. W. McLeod; 1925, Miss M. Lankovsky, Miss F. M. Gloyn; 1926, Miss D. Perress, Miss M. E. Wyatt, Mr. W. M. Collinge; 1927, Mr. F. L. S. Davidson, Miss B. J. Ballard, Miss E. J. Westerman, Miss F. H. Verry; 1928, Miss M. J. Robson, Mr. M. R. Smith, Miss S. Mackenzie, Mr. C. G. Price; 1929, Miss M. E. Ashcroft, Miss M. G. Pownall, Miss C. J. Hall, Miss E. A. Flowers; 1930, Miss I. E. Curry, Miss M. J. Nelson, Mr. G. E. S. McNaughton; 1931 Miss V. A. Clark; 1931, Miss J. P. Allison, Miss P. W. Robertson, Miss E. W. Nelson.
1933-1940
1933, Miss S. McKenzie, Miss J. Hall. Mr. Isdale, Miss White; 1937, Miss M. O’Neill, Miss M. Franklin; 1938, Miss E. Nicoll; 1939, Miss M. Ormiston, Miss W. Rigg; 1940, Miss M. Robins, Miss G. Robinson.
1941-50
1942, Miss Purcell, Miss Mardon: 1943, Miss M. Priest, Miss M. Matheson, Mr. T. Noonan; 1944, Miss Lizette, Miss J. Sykes; 1945, Miss McArtney, Miss J. Setter, Mr. Charteris, Miss McKeesick; 1946, Mr. Murphy, Miss J. McVay; 1947, Miss Riach, Miss Simonsen; 1948, Mr. Duncan; 1949, Mr. C. Pankhurst; 1950, Miss F. Single, Miss J. Richmond.
1951-1953
1951, Mr. E. P. Boyd; 1952, Miss D. Hinks, Miss J. D. McKay, Mr. I. Anthony, Miss B. D. Howard, Mr. W. Ballantyne; 1953, Mr. L. Crisp, Mr. D. Harris.
Page Thirty-two MAHORA SCHOOL
At times the following acted as relieving or temporary teachers: -1903-1932 – Miss Burness, Miss G. G. Gray, Miss I. Ross, Miss Carter, Miss Enting, Miss A. R. McCormick, Mr M. S. Quigley, Miss M. A. Ferris, Mrs Tindall, Mrs Hawley, Miss B. H. Green, Miss M. E. Allen, Mr Richdale, Miss V. M. Brain (Eng.), Mrs L. Arkens, Miss D. A. Thompson, Miss F. Burne, Miss Merson, Mrs Nesbitt, Mrs F. Baumgart, Miss K. Roach, Miss T. A. Cooper, Miss J. R. Earl, Miss L. C. Thomas, Miss M. Giles, Miss T. E. Smith, Miss G. E. McMillan, Miss M. M. Leach, Mr M. V. Elliott, Miss M. Morrison, Miss Bliss, Mrs D. Hingston, Mr M. I. W. McLeod, Miss I. M. E. Wyatt, Miss I. Pidd, Miss J. Allison, Mr M. H. N. Beuth. 1932-1940 – Miss G. Pickett, Mr R. Short, Miss M. Little, Mr A. R. Mines, Miss E. Flowers, Miss J. Allison, Mr J. G. Bark, Miss Heyward, Miss Duff, Miss I. Death, Miss I. Holderness, Mrs Albrecht, Mrs Cumberworth, Miss K. Gilmore, Miss Reeve, Mrs B. G. Gordon, Mr D. Sheppard, Mrs Craigie, Miss J. Chappell, Miss M. Webb, Mr L. W. Couch. Miss McIvor, Miss D. Haggitt, Mr F. Mullinder, Mr L. Allen, Miss N. Cooper. 1942-1950 – Mrs McNeilly, Mrs Mill, Miss Pratt, Miss G. Fairhall, Mrs Simon, Mrs Bixley, Mrs Foster. Mrs J. Ritchie, Mrs Reiper, Miss Prebble, Mr J. W. Parker, Miss M. Kelt, Miss L. Carr, Miss Robson, Mr G. F. Bee, Miss Wilkes, Mr R. Short, Mrs G. Butler, Mr Simpson, Miss D. J. King, Mr A. D. Bartlett, Miss Thornton, Miss Young, Mr J. Chadwick. Mr Groves, Miss Gibbs, Mr Linyard, Miss Chapman, Mr G. Sheratt, Mr K. Thompson, Mrs Tustin, Mr E. W. Tinker, Mrs V. R. Peach (later permanent), Miss B. A. Sharpin (later permanent), Mr H. J. McLean, Mr W. Dunn, Mrs Jensen, Mrs I. Hanna, Mrs Hingston, Mrs M. L. McMurray, Miss M. B. Thomson, Mr J. W. Currie, Mr. T. J. Dymond. 1951-1953 – Miss Russell, Mrs. Mills, Mrs. J. Cambie, Mrs. M. Sear, Mrs. E. Chappell.
Mesdames M. Frethey, D. Hingston and E. Wills were ready, almost at a moment’s notice, to fill the places of teachers called up for military service during the war years. We feel that this is worthy of special mention.
Owing to the great difficulty in compiling the list of teachers we apologise for any omissions or errors.
EDITOR
CONTRIBUTED BY LESLIE DAVIS, A FIRST DAY BOY
My recollections of the first day of the opening to pupils of Mahora School on August 24, 1903, was just a one roomed building in a large paddock enclosed with ordinary wire fences.
I think we obtained our drinking water from a tap over the horse trough – of course there was nothing to say we didn’t share the water with the horses.
Even in those early days there must have been something in the Mahora air, as some of us preferred riding the extra distance compared with the shorter distance to the Central School.
Photo caption – PICNIC DAY – TROTTING CLUB COURSE, STORTFORD LODGE, 1906
After being enrolled we were granted a half-day to tidy up the grounds. Evidently there must have been a lot of rubbish left by the “grown-ups” after the official opening a day or so before.
Having no playing area marked out, after settling down to school routine, little time was lost by Mr. Chaplin in organising various sporting activities in which he always took an active part. Then we had a chance to get “our own back”!
The fine school tradition existing today has been built on the sound foundations established by Mr. Chaplin and Miss Gray who comprised the original staff.
CONTRIBUTED BY MRS. ROBERTSON
(Nee Aileen Sinclair) A FIRST DAY GIRL
After having to walk three miles from Mahora to the Hastings Central School for one year it was a great thrill when the Mahora School was opened in 1903.
How excited we were when the day arrived. I remember very proudly taking my younger sister the first day. How ever she was a big disappointment to me as she wanted to go home to mother. One early impression I had was of the shelter sheds. One was provided for the girls and one for the boys. They had seats round three sides. I expect they are the same today.
Photo caption – PICNIC DAY – TROTTING CLUB COURSE, STORTFORD LODGE, 1906
Many an impromptu concert was held there, and I am sure Miss Gray would have smiled had she heard our efforts at singing etc.
What fun we had trying to cross the horizontal bar which stretched from side to side of the shed. We hung on with our hands, legs dangling in space. In the first place most of us had to be lifted up so as to get a grip with our hands, surely a great accomplishment to cross the bar and back again, or so we thought when we were youngsters.
Who remembers the pony rides? Sometimes we rode our ponies to school and we would be besieged with requests from other children to let them have a ride. I well remember one afternoon, my sister could not catch her pony, so Mr. Chaplin came out and after chasing it round the grounds for some time managed to catch it.
I am sure other first day pupils remember those happy pastimes, along with our hockey, football and other games.
I am afraid I was a sore trial, I was forever talking. One day Mr. Chaplin evidently had enough and decided to punish me severely. I was called out, and sat between two boys. Now that should have been enough to make any little girl cry. But in this case the punishment failed.
Memory brings back happy days at old Mahora along with the thought of our first teachers, Mr. Chaplin, later Miss Gray and the late Mr. Tommy Atkinson. What a sport he was!
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Thirty-five
CONTRIBUTED BY MRS. CREARER
(nee Jo Burden)
Our early impressions of school days at Mahora are often linked with friends, many of whom we still have with us.
On my first day at Mahora School one of the first-day pupils was very kind to me. I was a new pupil without any friends to talk to. At playtime I was feeling rather sad as I watched from a distance some girls sitting on the grass playing “Knuckle-bones” One of there girls had beautiful dark ringlet curls tied back with a pretty lemon bow of ribbon; it was she who called to me and said, “Come and sit with us. You can see how we play then.” Aileen moved to make room for me to sit by her. I still have her for a friend and it is a good feeling when I sometimes sit near her at our Jubilee Committee meetings and know I am going to enjoy some of the celebrations with her.
CONTRIBUTED BY MRS. ROBINS
(nee Gertie Harker) A FIRST DAY GIRL
The greatest thrill going to school was the ride in Boyland’s horse and gig. It was hard to say how many children used to get into that gig, especially going home.
Another memory that stands very vivid in my mind is that of the school concerts. We practised action songs, dumbells, and clubs for weeks. Miss Gray playing for us. Many a time we were kept in after school until we got a certain piece right. The girls dressed in white with blue sashes, and the boys in white shirts and dark trousers.
Mr. Atkinson was always very eager to play games with us. It was he who taught me to play hockey and rounders – knuckle-bones was always a great favourite among the girls. In the winter on wet days we arranged the forms around the fire and ate our lunches. The strap didn’t come out of the drawer very often, but when it did you knew you had done something really bad. The boys had the strap far more than the girls. A great punishment in those days, was to give us lines to do, sometimes 20, but more often 50. The boys got a thrill very often by putting the ends of our plaits in the ink wells. Another favourite of the boys and girls was notewriting. They were passed along, especially at arithmetic time, so we could compare answers. We very often had cards with five sums on, and they were marked A. and B. and we would pass our answers to the one who had the same number as we had. Now and again we were caught and of course had to pay the penalty. As we got into the higher classes, we went to the Hastings High School for cooking and dressmaking, and the boys for woodwork. As some didn’t have bikes we used to double bank our mates.
Page Thirty-six MAHORA SCHOOL
FIRST DAY PUPILS
(The Pioneers) Admitted 25/8/03
Registered No.
1 – D’Arcy Walden
2 – *William C. Simmons
3 – David E. Hird
4 – Dorothy Paton
5 – *Winifred Daisy Bowen
6 – *Ida May Curran
7 – Annie Moore
8 – *Edward Matthews
9 – *Chris. Neilson
10 – Cornelius Donovan
11 – Jessie Bubb
12 – *Lucy Paton
13 – Lucy H. Hardy
14 – Olive E. Row
15 – *David Clarence Sinclair
16 – Irvine C. Davies
17 – William H. Rowe
18 – Eliza May Bubb
19 – Lily Walden
20 – Isabella A. Hird
21 – *Mildred I. Wilson
22 – George Downey
23 – *Edward A. Long
24 – James Hird
25 – Mary Maud Walden
26 – Hilda Neilson
27 – Alice Maude Wells
28 – Myrtle L. Curran
29 – *Oliver James Bubb
30 – James Paton
31 – Gathorne Hardy
32 – Thomas Bubb
33 – *Stanley W. Curran
34 – Alfred J. Rowe
35 – Janet Reston
36 – *Henry G. Walden
37 – Frederick Ramsay
38 – Christina E. Cairns
39 – Helen M. Hird
40 – Gertrude Aileen Sinclair
41 – Frederick Bubb
42 – Archibald Douglas Cairns
43 – Ella Winifred Sinclair
44 – Albert Stewart Mosen
45 – Elsie May Mosen
49 – *Leslie F. Row
50 – Wallace S. Wilson
51 – Frederick E. A. Thorne
46 – Iris May Perritt
47 – Una Puschel
48 – Leslie C. C. Davis
52 – Frank C. Hortop
53 – Archibald W. W. Glew
54 – Ronald E. J. Glew
55 – Gertrude E. A. Harker
56 – Vera Victoria Webb
57 – Elsie Douglas Moss
59 – *Violet A. Long
60 – Amy Bubb
58 – Eileen Reston
61 – *George J. Love
62 – *Albert A. Love
(*) Deceased
IMPORTANT EVENTS
1903
August 24 – Mahora School opened. Mr. W. T. Chaplin in sole charge.
62 children present.
November 2 – Miss M. I. Gray appointed Infant Mistress.
1904
August 9 – Severe earthquake. No damage.
1905
May 8 – New classroom occupied (second room).
December 18 – School Picnic at Flaxmere.
1906
December 18 – School Picnic at Trotting Course, Stortford Lodge.
1907
December 19 – School Picnic at Cornwall Park.
1908
September 1908 – New Infant Room opened (third room.)
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Thirty-seven
Photo caption – STD. 2 PUPILS 1914
1910
September 9 – Number three room partitioned (fourth room).
April 5 – School Colours (Black and Gold) decided on.
1912
February 5 – New Classroom occupied (fifth room).
March 25th – School Cadets inspected by Captain Stevens.
1913
February – School overcrowded – 315 pupils on roll.
May 12 – Telephone connected with School.
July 22 – 228 children and adults vaccinated.
November 12 – Grand Floral Carnival on Racecourse, (£203 raised towards Swimming Baths,)
1914
June 29 – School overcrowded – Standard Four taught in Mission Hall.
October 5 – Standard Four transferred to large marquee in playground.
1915
January – Two new classrooms, office and teachers room added (sixth and seventh rooms.)
1916
March 1 – Danger of Infantile Paralysis. Mr. Robertson (Chairman), using his orchard spraying machine, disinfected with formalin, every room thoroughly.
1917
February – Diphtheria epidemic—School closed two weeks.
July – Presentation to Mr. A. M. Robertson, Chairman of School Committee for nine years.
Page Thirty-eight MAHORA SCHOOL
Photo caption – STD. 6 PUPILS 1922
1918
November 11 – Capitulation of Germany.
November – Influenza Epidemic virulent – Schools closed for rest of 1918
1919
‘Shop’ in charge of Ladies Committee raised £66 towards Swimming Baths.
1920
October 1 – Remodelled shelter sheds used as classrooms,
1921
February 28 – Miss M. Gray, Infant Mistress since 1903, farewelled by parents, teachers and children. Miss Gray appointed to Hastings Street School, Napier.
1922
February 1 – During summer holidays pergola and gates had been erected. Two new portable rooms built (eigth [eighth] and ninth rooms).
February 17 – School Picnic at Polo Grounds.
June 10 – £90 raised by means of a “Shop”.
August 25 – Reunion of Old Pupils in Assembly Hall, 19th Anniversary, 450 present.
1923
May 5 – £125 raised by Fair and Dance for playground extension.
1924
February 4 – Miss M. I. Gray re-appointed as Infant Mistress.
April 17 – Visit of Minister of Education (Hon. C. J. Parr).
1925
January – Remodelling of School commenced.
January – Swimming Baths completed, contract price £1075.
February 2 to April 20 – School closed owing to Infantile Paralysis but Stall assembled on March 2 to prepare schemes of work etc.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Thirty-nine
Photo caption – PRIMER 4 PUPILS 1924
1925 (continued)
April 20 – Remodelled School occupied,
June 13 – £100 raised by “Shop” in aid of Swimming Baths.
September 17 – School visited by Director of Education, Mr. J. Caughley,
October 10 – Visit of Governor-General, Sir Charles Ferguson and Lady Ferguson,
October 16 – Swimming Baths opened to school children.
(Opening was delayed owing to Infantile Paralysis.)
December 16 – Baths officially opened by Minister of Education, Sir James Parr.
1926
February 2 – Picnic held at Tomoana Showgrounds.
May 5 – “Shop” in aid of Swimming Baths realised £95.
October 7 – Visit of Minister of Education (Hon. R. A. Wright) re additions.
1927
June – “Shop” realised £80.
December 16 – Farewell to Miss M. I. Gray (Infant Mistress) after 21 years service.
1928
April 18 – Official opening of new wing of School (S.E. Wing.)
June 23 – “School Shop” raised £88.
1929
March 3 – Visit of Minister of Education (Hon. H. Atmore) re overcrowding.
June 6 – “Shop” realised £80,
1930
June 21- “Shop” to raise funds realised £85.
Page Forty MAHORA SCHOOL
Photo caption – STD. 6 PUPILS 1929
1931
February 3 – Disastrous earthquake during morning interval. One girl killed by falling chimney and one girl suffered a broken leg.
All nine chimneys levelled to the ground; otherwise little structural damage. All children sent home.
February 16 – Education Department instructed schools to re-open – until March 7 school lessons taken in open air.
April 15 – Installation of boilers and hot water system.
1932
August 19 – Resignations of Miss Cormack (Infant Mistress) and Mr. W. T. Chaplin (Headmaster since 1903).
September 5 – Mr. Cornes appointed acting headmaster. Mr. Chaplin having retired at the end of the second term.
1933
February 1 – Mr. E. Bissell commenced duties as headmaster.
August 15 and 16 – Presentation in Municipal Theatre by Mahora School pupils of “Alice in Wonderland.”
1934
August 3 – Senior pupils attended reception to Miss Jean Batten, at Municipal Theatre.
1936
May 17 – Sister Stringer, N.Z. Organiser for the Junior Red Cross addressed senior pupils – object being to form a Circle at the school.
1937
Infantile Paralysis Epidemic – Schools not re-opened until March 1.
March 15 – Schools again closed. Assignments for children’s work at home, published in daily newspapers.
April 26 – Schools re-opened.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Forty-one
Photo caption – STD. 6 PUPILS 1945
1937 (continued)
May 12 – Coronation of King George VI. Festivities in School grounds.
September 6 – Commencement of Milk Supply to school,
September 14 – Formation of Clubs whereby pupils pursued free study under specialized teachers.
December 6 – First competition for Grieve Oratory Cup.
Radio and loud-speaker system installed.
1938
May 5 – Farewell to Miss Epps after 16 years service at Mahora.
May 28 – Excursion to Napier to view exhibition of Coronation Robes.
1939
February 24 – School excursion to Napier.
April 3 – Visit of Mr. P. Fraser. Minister of Education, and Mr. Lambourne. Director of Education.
September 1939 – World War II.
From now on many ex-pupils visited school to farewell teachers and pupils before leaving for service overseas.
1940
February 23 – School excursion to Napier.
March 14 – Hastings Primary School’s Centennial Display at Nelson Park
September 25 – Patriotic Shop held to raise funds for Christmas parcel to servicemen overseas,
December 4 – Another shop for Patriotic purposes.
December 12 – Parents’ Day when presentations from pupils, committee and staff were made to Mr. Bissell, retiring after eight years as headmaster of Mahora, and 48 years in the service of the Hawke’s Bay Education Board.
1941
February – Mr. J. A. Engebretsen commenced duties as headmaster.
Dental Clinic opened at school.
Page Forty-two MAHORA SCHOOL
1944
Mr. and Mrs. C. Lassen tendered complimentary function.
1945
German Forces in Italy surrender.
End of Second World War.
1946
School Banking £705 compared with £245 in 1942.
1947
Miss W. Satchell farewelled after 15 years on staff.
Influenza epidemic.
1948
Roll 804.Schools remained closed till February 2. School work carried on by weekly assignments.
May 3 – School closed. Infantile Paralysis.)
Miss S. Donnelly farewelled after 21 years on staff.
First Gala Day held.
1949
Roll 920. No infant classes in original building.
First clerical assistant (Mrs. S. Nelson) appointed,
Country Library Service inauguarated.
Mr. H. A. Cornes farewelled after 23 years on Staff.
1950
Roll 860. 100 pupils transferred to Mayfair School.
1951
Roll 884.
Mr. J. A. Engebretsen retired after 11 1/2 years as headmaster.
Mr. A. Ivey appointed headmaster.
September 9 – Mrs. Nelson, clerical assistant, resigned as from today.
November 11 – Gala Day held in bright sunshine. Net profit about £375.
December 12 – The roll rose to 903.
1952
February 7 – The school closed on account of King George VI’s death.
February 2 – Mrs. Jans took up duties as clerical assistant in place of Mrs. Jones who resigned.
February 2 – On this Saturday the school picnic was held at Eskdale Domain in brilliant sunshine. A train of 16 carriages was required
March 7 – Mr. J. Drummond, chairman of the school committee for the past two years and secretary for eight years resigned. An afternoon tea was given at the school as an appreciation of his services and a presentation made.
May 6 – Frimley School opened today. Mahora sent 165 children to the new school, and transferred four teachers, Mrs. J. McCreedy, Miss B. Howard, Miss J. McKay and Mr. I. Talbot.
December 11 – Parents’ Day was held in fine weather and largely attended. Mr. A. Sivewright, Education Board Chairman was guest speaker.
1953
February 13 – School swimming sports held, Judith Webby won the Ross Jones Cup.
February 2 – School Picnic again held at Eskdale, A train of 18 carriages required. The weather was not very kind.
April 20 – The job of painting the school buildings has been commenced and everything should look its best for the Jubilee.
April 27- The hedge along the Duke Street drive entrance was pulled out today in preparation for widening the path by about 6 feet.
Roll of Honour
WORLD WAR I.
So nigh is grandeur to our dust,
So near is God to man,
When Duly whispers low, “you must”,
The youth replies, “I can”.
Old Boys killed in action;
(or died while in training for active service.)
Gutterson C. W.
Love, A. A.
Love, G. J.
McLelland, R. W.
Mathews, T. A.
Perress, J. G.
Ross, P. R.
Sands, O.
Stockham, T. W.
York, H. M.
On Active Service
Anderson, C. M.
Blair, A. D.
Brown, G. W.
Bubb, T.
Burden, P. M.
Burr, T. G.
Chadwick, R. H.
Compton, K. G.
Comrie, W. L.
Crawford W. J.
Crawford, E. S.
Crawford, T. H., (M.C.)
Curtis, A. E.
Davis, I. C.
Davis, L. C. C.
de Lisle, F.
de Lisle, R.
Douglas, J. E.
Downey, S. G., (M.M.)
Ebbett, L.
Foster, A., (C. de G.)
Goodwin, E. A.
Grenside, M. R.
Halse, G. C.
Halse, R.
Halstead, W. J.
Harper, F. A.
Hay, C. J.
Hird, D. E.
Hird, J. E.
Horton, A.
Hortop, F. C.
Jones, S. I.
Kitt, S.
Laurie, J.
Mardon, F.H.
Mitchell, G. E.
Mosen, A. S.
Paton J.
Ramsay, F.
Richmond, T. C.
Ritchie, G. H.
Row, L. E.
Rutherford, C. D.
Rutherford, J. D.
Saywell, W. C.
Shields, W. B.
Simmons, W. C.
Sinclair, C. D.
Stafford, E. J.
Stafford, R.
Stockham, J. G.
Tonkin, A. S.
Walden, D. A.
Roll of Honour
WORLD WAR II.
“They went with songs to the battle; they were young,
Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow.”
Old Boys killed in action;
(or died while in training for active service.)
Beach, H. L.
Botherway, P.
Bush, L J. S.
Cowlrick, A. J.
Davies, O. W.
Dyer, I. G.
Ewing, L. J. E.
Godfrey, V. A
Hallett, R. E.
Hearn, H. R.
Hildreth, F. F.
Hoadley, H. M.
Hogg, R. A.
Isdale, W. R
Kirkley, T. W. J.
Krough, W. O. G.
Little, H.
Lowe, A. G
McCormick, M. W.
O’Malley, J. W.
Overend, V. E.
Parton, A. B.
Peddie, J. A. D.
Prebble, M.
Simpson, J. W.
Smith, W.
Stanley, D. E.
Tahau, J.
Tritt, P. H.
van Asch, J.
Vesty, L. K.
Vesty, R. L.
Watkinson, S.
Wood P.
On Active Service
Anderson, E. C. W. (D.F.C.)
Anderson, N. C.
Archibald,
Armstrong, H.
Armstrong, K.
Armstrong, M.
Bach, D. R.
Baird, B. W.
Barden, J.
Bayliss, W. L
Beckett, A. J.
Beckett, E. A.
Beckett, L. R.
Bickerstaff, C. H.
Branden, H. H.
Bridge, B. D.
Brown, R. A. B.
Bullen, J. G.
Burfeld, N. S. R.
Burns, R. N. W.
Burr, T. G., (M.I.D.)
Burt, C. P. A.
Burwood, A. L.
Bush, A. J.
Cameron, G. M.
Carrell, J.
Caves, F. A.
Chaplin, R. H.
Chaplin, S. G., (M.I.D,)
Cheer, W.
Christiansen, C. E.
Church, E. J.
Circuit, A. R. P.
Coles, B. B.
Coles, G. K.
Coles, S. P.
Collinge, J. B.
Collinge, W.
Common, D. E.
Commin, L.
Compton, I. B.
Cook, A.
Cook, N. J.
Cornes, A. H.
Cornes, G.
Cowlrick, L. F.
Crawford, I. D. (M.I.D.)
Davidson, N. E.
Dane, K. (M.l.D.)
Deeley, A. S. C.
Deeley, H. A.
Duff, C. C.
Duff, E. J.
Duigan, F. L.
Dyer, K. R.
Dyer, L. N.
Dyer, N. N.
Dysart, H.
Elsworth, G.
Elsworth, H
Epps, H. F.
Farquaharson, W. C. (M.M.)
Fendall, B. G. C.
Fendall, D. J. W.
Foley, J.
Fortnam, J. A.
Frizzell, R. E.
Gabites, E. W., (D.F,C.)
Gadd, A. W.
Gadd, J. S.
Garland, K. O.
Garnett, I. L.
Gibbs, R. F. C.
Gibson, N. C.
Gifford, P. T.
Giorgi, R. V.
Godber, E.
Godber, G. E.
Godwin, J. L.
Graham, R. V.
Grant. J. R.
Gray, J.
Groves, F. G.
Groves, L. L. P.
Gunn, D.
Gunn, V. T.
Hardy, F. D.
Harper, A. W. W.
Harper, F. J. E.
Harper, H. S.
Hay, E. G.
Heaton, E. C.
Heaton, F. L.
Heir, J. A.
Henderson, T. F.
Hendry, R. A.
Hill, E.
Hill, K.
Hobbs, J. R.
Holt, L. M.
Hood, T.
Horn, J. P.
Horton, H. C.
Horne, R. J.
Horton, J. H.
Horton, P.
Horton, R.
Horton, T. C.
Howard, C. H.
Hunter, R. D.
Hursthouse, D. E,
Hursthouse, M. W.
Innes, B.
Jamieson, G. D.
Jamieson, J. A.
Jamieson, R. F.
Jillings, L. R.
Jillings, M. A.
Jones, L, I., (M.I.D.)
Jones, S. G.
Kain, M. G.
Kelt, A.
Kelt, M. J.
Kitching, J.
Kitt, I. H.
Kitt, S.
Knox, G. D.
Knuckey, G. F.
Lee. S. J.
Lloyd, G. H.
Lloyd, L. H.
Love, H. S.
Lowe, A. W., (D.F.C.)
Lowe, C. M.
Lowe, D. A.
Lowe, F. A.
Lowe, F. E.
Lowe, S. N.
Lowe, S. R.
Luxton, J. W.
Mason, P.
Michaelson, M. L.
Mitchell, L. A.
Morrin, T. G. S., (M.C.)
Moss, K. T.
McCormick, D. W.
McCormick, E. E.
McErlich, D.
McDonald, H.
McDonald, S. H.
McKenzie, E. R.
McKenzie, H. A.
McLellan, R.
McNeil, T. B., (M.I.D.)
Napier, C. L.
North, A. L.
Oliphant. J. B.
Olsen, A. W.
Olsen, J.
Orchard, L. G.
Overend, J. G.
Panckhurst, K. D.
Panckhurst, W. A.
Person. E.
Person, W.
Plumley, L.
Prebble, L.
Prebble, R.
Rae, R.
Rainbow, W. J.
Redell, J. I. (Malta Cross)
Rivers, N. E.
Robertson, A. D.
Robertson, R. W. G.
Rollo, J. L
Russell, G. B.
Saunders, W. F.
Schofield, B. R.
Seton, J. G.
Short, R. T.
Simonsen, J. M.
Skews, S.
Smith, M. M.
Snell, K. G.
Snell, R. E.
Stanley, F. J.
Steal, G. G., (D.F.C.)
Sturm, T. D
Tate, E. L.
Tate, G. H.
Tayler, C. L., (M.I.D.)
Tayler, J. D.
Tayler, L. F.
Tayler, W. F.
Taylor, E. J.
Taylor, J.
Taylor, L., (M.I.D.)
Thompson, K.
Thompson, T.
Thorburn, I.
Thornburrow, J. A. T.
Thow, G. L.
Tipping, J. R.
Tonkin, F. E.
Toothill, G. A.
Toothill, R. F.
Underwood, J. J.
Verry, C. H.
von Dadelszen, O. G.
Walker, K. W.
Walmsley, A.
Walmsley, P.
Wattie, R. E.
Webb, L.
Wedd, D. J.
Whimp, O. T.
Wilkinson, C. B.
Wilson, P. W.
Wise, C.
OLD GIRLS
Bowen, Audrey H.
Collinge, Sheila M.
Fannin, Rosemary P.
Kain, Peggy M.
Pitcaithly, Jean A. (M.I.D.)
Wilson, Diana A.
Page Forty-Six MAHORA SCHOOL
A SPORTS SURVEY OF MAHORA SCHOOL
The value of sport as a means of developing character and of achieving clean manhood and womanhood has long been recognised. That “the Battle of Waterloo was won on the fields of Eton” is no vain boast. All New Zealanders follow with pride and intense interest their national representatives whether at home or abroad.
Our school possesses a most distinguished record in the field of sport throughout the years.
The foundation for this record was undoubtedly laid by our first headmaster and his assistant, Mr. W. T. Chaplin and Mr. T. S. Atkinson. Both took an early lead in expounding the theory that sport must be regarded as a direct and valuable means of obtaining a breadth in education. Chaplin himself was a good, keen all-round cricketer, and Tommy could be considered as being one of Hawke’s Bay’s best all-round athletes.
The school was doubly fortunate in having in succession two headmasters with similar ideas. Both Mr Ted Bissell and Mr. Arthur Engebretsen added stature and lustre to these foundations. These two headmasters in their respective sports were outstanding performers. “Ted” was one of the best backs of the early Hawke s Bay provincial teams as well as being no mean performer in the boxing ring. In the bowling world the name of ‘Enge” will always live. As New Zealand singles Champion, ‘skip ‘ of New Zealand Champion Rink and a member of the New Zealand bowling team at the recent British Empire Games in Auckland Arthur Engebretsen has indeed a proud record.
It is no wonder that Mahora School with such sportsmen at the helm has always played a prominent part in all primary school sports of our district. This policy continues to be fostered under the present regime of Mr. A. Ivey. This is shown conclusively by the entries obtained year after year when our school holds its various sports. In this Jubilee Year at the swimming sports we obtained 302 entries and at the athletic sports the record number of 1353 entries. Also in this year’s combined schools athletic sports Mahora either won or were placed in 10 team events out of 13 It is with pride that we are able to “page” the following outstanding individual New Zealand national honours and in so doing we congratulate them and wish them well.
Bert Grenside. All Black Rugby, South African and Australian Tours.
Artie Hay. Only boxer to hold simultaneously three national professional boxing titles. Undefeated as an amateur.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Forty-seven
Richard Watkins. New Zealand Mile Swimming Champion.
Eddie Morley. New Zealand Wrestling Champion.
Mrs. Watkins (Serena Bishop). New Zealand Open and Ladies’ Croquet Champion. Ladies Open and 13 titles. Australian tour.
Mrs. Lange (Ada Carrington). New Zealand Ladies’ Croquet Championship.
Mrs. L. Fisher (Lauris Hood). Three times New Zealand Ladies’ Diving Champion.
Gladys Symes. New Zealand Ladies’ Sprint Champion – 3 titles.
Gladys Symes, Mavis Lean (Mrs. Morrison), and Edna Morton. Twice members of the New Zealand Ladies’ Athletic relay team.
Rona Tong. New Zealand 50 metre hurdles in Australia. New Zealand Empire Games Relay Team.
Brian Perry. Small Bore Shooting Champion.
Stuart Jones. North Island Golf Champion, New Zealand Golf team for Australian and England tours.
Hugh Thompson. Captain of the New Zealand equestrian team at the 1953 Sydney Show.
Les. Tayler. “clout ‘ Archery Champion.
Colin Kirkley and Dawn Lett. Both winners of the New Zealand Junior Diving Championships.
It is regretted that all the many outstanding performers in various sports cannot be recorded owing to space limitations. The following, however, have all gained provincial honours and in some cases narrowly missed national representation.
WOMEN’S SPORTS
North Island Honours.
Colleen Newrick (Mrs. Bartlett); Mabel Esler. Jo. Burden (Mrs. Crerar)
Provincial Honours.
Nonie Simonsen (Mrs, Evans), Bessie Grenside (Mrs. Copeland), Vera Stairmand (Mrs. Morrison), Mary Heeney, Gladys Stanley, Dallas Perress (Mrs. Hingston), Lyall Mawson (Mrs. Sowersby), Audrey O’Meara, Nola Henderson (Mrs. White), Edna Baker, Zenda Giorgi, Bay Seton, Una Sefton, Joy McKain.
MEN’S SPORTS
North Island Honours (or equivalent).
M. Dyer, E. Apsey. T. Crawford, M. Grenside, K, Dyer, I. Hay, E. Morley, T. Taylor.
Provincial Honours.
J. Horton, P. Botherway, K. Taylor, S. Tong, E. Sutcliffe, J. Redward, W. Beckett, L. Cash, V. Collinge, J. Seton, N. Dyer, R. Mawson, J. Simonsen, J. Tayler, C. Tayler, L. Dyer, E. Webby, D. Weeks, R. Weeks, R. Croft, J. Boyd, A. Taylor, G. Vogtherr, L. Stewart, R. Mitchell, L. Mitchell, E. Mitchell, L. Totty, R. Pearce, K. Perrin, J. Martin, R. Hobbs, R. Morley, A. Stevens, B. Bridge, G. Stewart.
A truly impressive honours list. Congratulations Mahora,and may you “Keep Climbing” in the Sporting World.
Page Forty-eight MAHORA SCHOOL
SUMMARY OF CUP AWARDS
In addition to the Dux award, seven cups have been given at one time or another, and awarded over the years as follow:
LASSEN CUP FOR ENGLISH
1945 – H. Blyth
1946 – Beverly McKay
1947 – Valerie Day
1948 – Anne Croucher
1949 – Joy Campbell
1950 – Anne Davy
1951 – Zelda Ross
1952 – Kenneth Butcher
PTE. BILL HOGG MEMORIAL FOR PERSEVERANCE
1943 – Ronald Sudfelt
1944 – Tom Lowe
1945 – Keith Chestnut
1946 – Bruce Whitworth
1947 – Ian Duncan
1948 – Jack Stewart
1949 – William Davidson
1950 – Paul Jones
1951 – Joan Donnelly
1952 – Mervyn Harding
GRIEVE CUP FOR ORATORY
1937 – Derek Wedd
Patricia Tabley
1938 – Patricia Tabley
1939 – Naida Cameron
1940 – Vivien Leicester
Shirley Hannah
1941 – Tom Robertson
1942 – Gordon Martin
1943 – Douglas Yule
1944 – Douglas Yule
1945 – Maurice Fraser
1946 – Dorothy Bradshaw
Peter Wright
1947 – Peter Wright
1948 – Anne Croucher
1949 – Eleanor Hawke
1950 – Yvonne Estcourt
1951 – John Currie
1952 – Wendy Hutchinson
MATHESON SEWING CUP
1936 – Ingrid Fredsberg
1937 – Jean Simpson
1938 – Nola Ware
1939 – Gwendoline Bennett
1940 – Ngaire Harding
1941 – Judith Edridge
1942 – Nola Perry
1943 – Marion Pederson
1944 – Audrey King
1945 – Janette McKay
1946 – Norma Knox
1947 –
1948 – Joan Watson
1949 – Shirley Potts.
1950 – Sau Young
1951 – Janice Round
1952 – Colleen Bickerstaff
ENGEBRETSEN CUP FOR HOUSE COMPETITION
1952 Green House
“YULE CUP” FOR ANNUAL CROSS COUNTRY RUN
Winner Fastest Time
1942 – E. Wilson R. Cash
1943 – Rex Allen Tom Baldwin
1944 – Earl Sinclair Earl Sinclair
1945 – N. Herbert D. Bond
1946 – Brian Wilson Rex Wilson
1947 – Brian Atkins Jim Lush
1948 – Donald Bond Donald Bond
1949 – Michael Owen Brian Wilson
1950 – Roger Spencer Roger Spencer
1951 – David Thompson Ray Morley
1952 – Ray Morley Ray Morley
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Forty-nine
ROSS JONES CUP FOR SWIMMING
1938 – Nonie Simonsen
1939 – Ngaire Cooke
1940 – Rae Condon
1941 – Leo Cash
1942 – Leo Cash
1943 – Leo Cash
1944 – Dawn Cash
1945 –
1946 – N. Carrington
D. Ayre
1947 –
1948 – Kelvin Hunt
1949 – P. McAllister
1950 –
1951 – Joy McKain
1952 – Everard Jackson
1953 – Judith Webby
DUX
1904 – Ida May Curran
1905 – Olive Esther Row
1906 – Daisy E. Marchant
1907 – George Matthews
1908 – Thomas H. Crawford
1909 – John V. Collinge
1910 – Leslie Davis
1911 – Phyllis B. Heaton
1912 – Sydney C. Collinge
1913 – George Frizzell
1914 – Maud A. Crawford
1915 – Maggie M. Carruth
1916 – William R. Barrett
1917 – John B. Collinge
1918 – Harold G. Carr
1919 – Maggie Pitcaithly
1920 – Ivan C. Martin
1921 – William M. Collinge
1922 – Allen Bullen
1923 – Marjorie J. Cliff
Robert M. Gaustead
1924 – Robert M. J. Hudson
1925 – Margaret L. O’Meara
Airini A. E. Lane
1926 – John W. Simpson
1927 – Margaret M. Crawford
1928 – Kathleen A. Tate
1929 – Joyce P. Jenkins
1930 – Ivan E. Thompson
1931 – Stanley Watkinson
1932 – William Richmond
1933 – Lawrence Dyer
1934 – Donald Knox
1935 – Marjorie Matheson
1936 – Osborne Melling
1937 – Gordon Knox
Geoffrey Clark
1938 – Patricia Tabley
1939 – Joyce Gigg
1940 – Shirley Hannah
1941 – Beverley Hannah
1942 – Betsy D. Cowan
1943 – Shirley Alexander
1944 – Alan Snell
1945 – Perry Stephenson
1946 – Bernard Flack
1947 – Ronald Bishop
1948 – Anne Croucher
1949 – Alcie Payne
1950 – Anne Davey
1951 – Zelda Ross
1952 – Judith Clapcctt
IN LOCO PARENTIS
The legal position of a parent with respect to a child at school – and, to some extent, while the child is on his (or her) way to or from school – is generally expressed by the Latin phrase, “in loco parentis”. meaning “in the place of a parent.” This is why a teacher (subject to regulations) is expected to give the care and attention a parent would give to a child. He may punish (not necessarily corporal punishment) and reward when he thinks it is for the good of the child.
Page Fifty MAHORA SCHOOL
This can readily be appreciated when we realise that a child who attends a school for a full year is under the control of a teacher for 1000 hours. From Infants to Standard Six usually means eight years, giving 8000 hours in a Primary School. “Wait till you get to school”, says the wrathful parent when he finds the child difficult to manage. “You’ll be broken in! 8000 hours while a child is being (or should be) taught nothing but what is good, should have a tremendous influence on his life.
JUBILEE SONG – Composed by Laurie Dyer
(To the Tune of “Men of Harlech”)
1.
Piki Haere, cuckoo shining,
We have tried to keep on climbing.
Fifty years the clock is chiming,
For our Jubilee.
Chaplin, Bissell, Engebretsen,
No, Mahora won’t forget them.
Ivey’s name we’ll set beside them
In our hall of fame.
Chorus.
Old school friends we’re meeting,
And exchanging greeting.
Seems no end of joyful friends,
Upon this day of feteing.
Oh, Mahora, home of learning,
Keep the wheels of knowledge turning.
For your birthday we’re returning.
Happy Jubilee.
2.
Happy days at old Mahora,
Brought back as we stand before her,
Grown apace since pupils saw her,
Fifty years ago.
Old and young now meet together,
Bonds of friendship we won’t sever.
We’ll keep climbing up for ever.
As we go through life.
Chorus.
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Fifty-one
A FEW PERSONALITIES
The Hon. Keith J. Holyoake, Deputy Prime Minister, began his school career at Mahora on February 1, 1909, but left at the end of the year. One wonders for how much Miss Gray, Infant Mistress, is responsible!
Mr. S. I. Jones, M.P. for Hastings, was the first male pupil teacher at Mahora.
Mr. A. G. Harper, Secretary for Internal Affairs, passed through all the standards at Mahora. He has had the very responsible duty of making all the intricate arrangements for Her Majesty the Queen’s anticipated visit to New Zealand. He is the right man in the right place.
Mr. Alex Lake, formerly First Assistant, ended his teaching career by becoming Senior School Inspector of Nelson.
Mr. Campbell Boyle, who followed Mr. Lake as First Assistant, became Senior School Inspector of Auckland.
THE SCHOOL MOTTO
In 1922 the headmaster consulted the Rev. F. A. Bennett, (afterwards Bishop Bennett of Aoteoroa), in regard to the adoption of a suitable motto expressed in Maori. It is generally agreed that nothing better could have been chosen than “Piki Haere” , meaning, “Keep on Climbing” . As an emblem the pipiwharauroa (shining cuckoo) the harbinger of spring, is typical of children passing through the springtime of life.
(To Maurice Boshier was given the task of drawing the bird; and he made a first rate job of It).
SCHOOL BANKING
Children are encouraged to be thrifty. Each Wednesday before school goes in numerous banking monitors, teachers, and Mrs. Jans, Clerical Assistant, deal with a large number of children banking small amounts.
For 1952, Mahora School had 491 depositors. They made 5,377 deposits amounting to £883/2/7 for the year and the total amount in the bank to their credit now stands at £3,472/9/5.
SWIMMING BATHS
Six inch artesian well fills the bath in 3½ hours. Half million gallons in 24 hours. Well cost £175, sunk by Mr. Stewart of Dunedin, January 1925, swimming baths completed. Total cost to this date £1075. Education Board granted £200, Mr. W. Nelson (Tomoana) £50. Mr. Hackett, contractor for Baths (Tender £908.)
Page Fifty-two MAHORA SCHOOL
HUMOUROSITIES
In 1941, when Miss Chalmers was away for about a month with the ‘flu – Mr. Bissell said, ‘She opened the door and ‘In-flu-enza. ?
Blue-bagging Miss Sykes?
Why our Leaving Certificates were held up in 1948?
Herb. Harper taking five wickets for eight runs in a cricket match, Mahora v. West in 1921’?
The last day at school in 1944 when we tied up “Corny’s ” bike?
REMINISCENCES
Even forty years ago schoolmasters were noted for the adroitness in which they wielded the “strap”. The usual manner of inflicting “the cuts” was for the hands to be held out alternately, palm uppermost. Our master, however, adopted what was then to us a new technique, that of extending the TWO hands together, palms up, which saved much effort by the donor, but not over-thrilling to the recipient.
Many thrills and spills were experienced by the “sliders” in the early days. The idea was to find a hard spot, free from turf, which was then well watered, producing a very slippery surface, albeit a muddy one. Bare feet were the order of the day, and with a shout of “Ships a’sailing”, tall, short, big and skinny boys would go sliding along the greasy track. One small boy, impeccably dressed in a white blouse and navy blue shorts, took a long run, reached the slide, stayed upright for about ten seconds, and then finished up on the broad of his back. The mud blended in well with both blouse and shorts, but what his mother said when he arrived home is not on record.
A certain schoolmaster, who was rather chivalrously minded, would ask if any of the boys would take punishment which should be meted out to the girls. One bright boy, who rejoiced in the name of Maurice, who was the modern incarnation of Sir Galahad, took much carressing by the cane on his palms, on behalf of a certain young lady. However, chivalry turned to disillusionment when the bright lad found that the aforesaid young thing was only “having him on.”
The girl in the class who was to read, ” Oh, how nice, holidays have come, no more lessons for ever so long”, caused the school mistress much annoyance and anguish, but the rest of the class much merriment, by reading, “Oh, ‘ow nice, ‘olidays ‘ave come, no more lessons for ‘hever so long “?
DO YOU REMEMBER?
A ride around the block in the first motor car owned by Mr. William Richmond, about 1908, the fare sixpence a ride, and the proceeds were donated to the school funds?
The blouses worn by the small boys in the early days served many purposes, some acting as a good repository for fruit from raided orchards?
GOLDEN JUBILEE Page Fifty-three
SCHOOLBOY HOWLERS
1 – U.S.S.R. – Use strong suitable rulers.
2 – DOGE. The name of a New Zealand Member of Parliament.
3 – ANTHONY EDEN, A park named after a popular Roman named Anthony.
4 – BERNARD SHAW. A Hastings Presbyterian Minister.
5 – HAILLE SELASSIE is the name of a well known Scotch song,
6 – DOMINION MONARCH. New Zealand’s Prime Minister.
7 – CECIL RHODES – was good at making roads.
8 – ELIZABETH FRY and MADAM CURIE – were attendants for Elizabeth’s wedding.
9 – During the War the President of France was Franco.
10 – Sinister means a woman who hasn’t married.
11 – The father of the famous Black Prince in English history was “OLD KING COLE.”
12 – Doctors to-day say that fatal diseases are the worst.
13 – Two kiddies were having an argument. They said. “It is.” “It isn’t, ” “It is,” “It isn’t.” One said “It must be, because the teacher said so, and if the teacher said it is, it is, even if it isn’t.”
14 – Joan of Arc was burnt to a steak.
15 – Samuel Marsden was a Prime Minister.
16 – I had too muck to eat at the birthday party.”
17 – “There was no body at home.”
18 – I went blackburying with Mum, Dab and my bother.’
19 – Whale blubber is the noise that a whale makes when it is harpooned.
MAHORA SCHOOL – INFORMATION RE CLASSROOMS
Roll No. Year
78 – 1903: 1 room 36′ x 22’
102 – 1905: 1 room 36′ X 22′
207 – 1908: 1 room 50′ x 24′, subsequently in 1910 partitioned to give two rooms 24′ 9″ x 24′ each.
316 – 1912: 1 room 24′ x 22′
358 – 1914: 2 rooms 26′ x 24′ each.
In 1925 the rooms erected in 1902, 1905 and 1912, three in all, (forming detached building) were remodelled into four rooms and removed to form wing of main building.
590 – 1925: 1 room (additional) 24′ x 24′
517 – 1922: 2 rooms 22′ 10″ x 22′ 5″ each (portable).
640 – 1928: 2 rooms 22′ x 22′ each and 1 room 24′ x 22′ with teachers’ room and storeroom.
700 – 1946: 2 rooms 26′ x 24′ temporary classroom type, detached block, each with cloakstall and storeroom.
790 – 1947: 2 rooms 21′ 6″ x 20′ each, steel huts ex Army Department.
867 – 1949: 2 rooms 26′ x 20′ each, prefabricated.
MAXIMUM ROLL: 924
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[List of names in this title still to be added – HBKB]
Business / Organisation
Mahora Primary SchoolFormat of the original
BookletDate published
1953Accession number
737/781/43864Supporters and sponsors
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