Newspaper Article 2011 – School’s past put into print

School’s past put into print

By Amy Shanks

The Tangoio School Reunion, to be held tomorrow is more than a chance for old classmates and friends to meet again, it will also mark the launch of a book about the school’s history.

Toi Harry Tawhai wrote a book titled Tangoio Native School 1902-1974 to ensure the school’s history was not lost.

“The idea was to capture stories from those old days because lots of our age group are dropping off now,” Mr Tawhai said.

It is nearly 50 years since the last school get-together.

About 80 people are expected to gather at Tangoio Marae in Settlement Rd, Tangoio from 9am tomorrow.

The day will begin with a powhiri followed by a visit and short commemoration service at the old school site, lunch, class photos and “lots of tall stories”.

The book launch will also form part of the day.

Tangoio School opened in 1902 as Tangoio Native School, one of many around the country.

In 1947, it changed to Tangoio Maori School, until the word Maori was dropped from its title in 1962. It closed in 1974.

All former pupils, teachers, school committee personnel, parents, and anyone who had anything to do with the school were urged to go along and celebrate, commemorate or even commiserate.