Porangahau School 1867-1992
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Porangahau has always been a very special place.
Its unique character has been shaped by the land, the sea, the river, the village and not least, the people.
Social interaction between Maori and European has been a tradition from the first colonial settlement and continues still after 150 years.
Many of these foundations were laid at school, which can now look back on 125 years of history.
Listening to taped interviews by Gretchen Hunter from our “old people” has been a special experience as they have shared their lifestyle and memories for posterity.
As the editor of this record of Porangahau school since it started in 1867, I would like to pay tribute to those whose recollections have provided material for this book and its predecessor, written at the time of the centennial in 1967.
While we are fortunate to have some still living amongst us, others have passed on. This is our time to remember them.
Of necessity some material is being duplicated from the centennial booklet. I make no apologies for this. It is equally valid second time around and may still be a new experience for some readers.
This publication has been a joint effort from many. Thank you all for your contributions. We hope readers enjoy what we offer.
Hilary Pedersen
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The Porangahau School 125th Jubilee is now a memory but I am sure, for those who attended, a most enjoyable memory. From the gathering on Friday evening, to the church service on Sunday morning, there were old school friends caught up with, stories told and memories relived.
It was a great turn out for the Jubilee and thank you to those past pupils and partners who travelled long distance to come and make our weekend such a good occasion. Also to those who live closer and turned up in large numbers, the locals who got behind our Jubilee Committee and helped with the organisation and the work that had to be done to set the weekend up; a great effort by all, thank you.
To the Jubilee Committee thank you does not seem enough, but well done on a fantastic weekend and effort put in to have made it such a good 125th Jubilee.
Finally, thank you to Hilary Pedersen, Julie Hepburn and Sue Stoddart for putting this booklet together. We will see as many as possible of you at the 150th.
Rob Hunter, Chairman, Board of Trustees.
Jubilee – Organizing Committee
Mabel Hewitt, Rob Hunter, Bridget Guerin, Harry McGregor, Wiki Hutcheson, Tracey Wakefield, Murray Willis, Pete Wynne-Lewis, Roy Stoddart, Hilary Pedersen, Julie Hepburn, Peter Wakefield (Chairman), Carol Tipene, Morehu Smith.
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Present Board of Trustees
Morehu Smith, Rob Hunter (Chairman), Murray Willis, Raymond Tipene, Julie Hepburn (Principal), Chris Stoddart, Sue Stoddart, Roseanne Hall, Jenny Carmichael.
Absent: Marama Kani
Board of Trustees 1989 – 1992
Donald Willis, Don Steele, Sue Stoddart, Carol Tipene, Rob Hunter (Chairman), Julie Hepburn (Principal), Jo Wynne-Lewis. Absent: Tipene Tutaki, Morehu Smith, Artareta Solomon, Dennis Sciascia. Deceased: Anne Hutcheson
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Tena Koutou nga kaumatua; nga kuia; nga matua; nga Tamariki katoa
On behalf of the staff and pupils of Porangahau School, I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped make this, our 125th Jubilee such a memorable event.
1992, our Jubilee year, certainly proved to be a very busy one for our school community.
Easter 1993 saw the realisation of all this hard work, dedication and enthusiasm.
The weekend was everything that one hoped it could be and more.
It was not without its lighter moments – including the raising of the marquee and the numerous powercuts at the ball!! But once again we saw Kiwi ingenuity coming to the fore!
Yes, our Jubilee year saw a great number of people becoming involved with the school – let’s build on this. It is only with such involvement that we can saw Porangahau School is working towards the partnership outlined in our school charter – that is, a partnership between the school and its community. Thank you, may we always continue to work together.
Na reira na mihi kia koutou. Tena Koutou, Tena Koutou, Tena Koutou Katoa.
Julie Hepburn, Principal
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Porangahau Korero – Our History
Schools of learning have always been important, and remain so. They afford for most the first substantial opportunity to gain a sense of belonging, and through a sense of history, self-esteem. This is Porangahau. Here is such an opportunity.
Te Porangahau was the great fighting chief who gave his name to this district. Those who live by the “taiaha” usually die by it, and so did Te Porangahau at the hand of Kahukuranui, the son of Kahungunu. The pa of Te Porangahau still remains, it is now the family cemetery at Waipuna, to which the whole of the people belong, but more recently cared for by the family Te Kuru.
Te Aomatarahi was the descendant of Te Porangahau, who held mana over this district. He has recently been venerated in the carved tekoteko on the new meeting house at Takautatahi, Takapau. Te Aomatarahi shared with Taraia the “Kahungunu” conquest and occupation of this district. His great grandsons, Tumapuhiarangi and Te Angiangi extended that influence from Heretaunga to the South Island.
It was Te Angiangi who gifted the lands of Porangahau to Te Whatuiapiti in return for a Kai haukau, or great feast. Te Whatuiapiti gave this and surrounding district to those who had assisted in preparing the feast. And so our people came here to live in the time of Te Rangiwawahia and Taurito, the parents of Kere. Te Angiangi, also provided land for Manuhiri and his people. Since that time, some twelve to fifteen generations ago, Porangahau has been settled by the descendants of Kere and Manuhiri. We are Ngati Kahungunu.
We are still here today. We will be tomorrow. Forging an existence as our elders did, which adequately deals with the issues of our day. These remain issues of history, of whakapapa, of sustainable land use, of appropriate technology and moral values. Anniversaries, jubilees, birthdays are the points in time where we are called to reflect upon the footsteps of our forebears, and also upon the footsteps we leave, which go before our children, and our children’s children.
Whatungarongaro he tangata
Toitu he Kainga.
People pass on,
The land remains.
Piri Scia Scia [Piri Sciascia]
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Pioneer History
The first recorded white man to visit Porangahau was William Colenso, 150 years ago. He stayed overnight and journeyed up the coast with Archdeacon Williams. He recorded that “Te Wiremu, teacher had a chapel at Porangahau”. The chiefs were Aperhama, te Whangeanga, Hoani Ropiha and Hoani Matua.
Colenso was a familiar figure over the years both as a missionary and a school inspector. For a time he owned land in the area.
A year after Colenso’s first visit in 1843, two surveyors H.G. Harrison and J. Thomas arrived at the mouth of the Porangahau river after walking around the rocks from Cape Turnagain. They had set out from Wellington to walk up the east coast to a whaling station at Mahia. They record that “A native ferried them across to fine beach of hard sand between the seas and lagoon on which were thousands of ducks.”
In the winter of 1855 O.L. Bousfield surveyed the Porangahau Block, an area of 130,000 acres extending from Blackhead Point along the southern boundary of the Hapaku [Hapuku] Block to Takapau, and southwest to Cape Turnagain. The map, completed a year later indicated that canoes could proceed up the Porangahau stream to the Saleyards Bridge, and that Messrs A. St-Hill, Whangaehu Station, J.D. Canning, Oakbourne; J.D. Ormond, Wallingford; and G.C. Cross, Mangamaire, were already occupying land leased from the Maoris in anticipation of the purchase by the Crown.
The Hunters were the fourth family to be mentioned in connection with early settlement.
From as early as 1851, it is known that Porangahau was a main thoroughfare for the mobs of sheep – mainly merinos in those days – which were driven up the coast via the Wairarapa and Castle Point to the various sheep runs further north.
Donald McLean (later knighted), a Land Purchase Commissioner, who became Native Minister, was another frequent traveller.
One notable passer-through in October of 1853 was Sir George Grey, shortly before his term in office ended. He stayed overnight with the St. Hill family.
In 1853 Mr and Mrs A. Lambert arrived in the district with a mob of sheep for the St. Hill family. With them was their infant son Ocean (born at sea) and thought to be the first white baby seen by the Maoris.
Their descendants were the Sidwells, Dorias, Hales and Morgans – all familiar names in the Porangahau and Wimbledon areas.
Another early name in Porangahau was John White. He owned the first store, was postmaster for a while in the sixties, and was the first owner of Braeburn Station. His brother George later managed the store and then sold it to John White’s accountant, George Sargisson.
In 1859 a weekly mail service, operated with pack horses, started between Napier and Porangahau.
1867 was a notable year. Porangahau was on the route for a telegraph line erected between Wellington and Napier. Cobb and Co., announced the beginning of a four-horse coaching service every Thursday from Napier and Mrs Hirtzell started the first school.
Nine years later a long-term district identity came to Porangahau. He was the Rev. Simcox, a doctor who administered to his flock spiritually and medically. At this time St Michael and All Angels church was built.
In 1879 the first dog trials were held.
In 1894 came the first Porangahau bridge, linking both sides of the river for the first time. Familiar names towards the turn of the century included the first blacksmith Charles Thomas, a contractor Bob Hall and Sam Beattie the first saddler. Bill Langaber, a fisherman who lived at the mouth of the river and sold fresh fish may have been the area’s first commercial fisherman.
This account mentions just some of the dates and identities who helped shape the history of the settlement in early times.
“Wasn’t to be a Prime Minister when you grow up? Mr Holyoake gives an insight into some of the facets of the Prime Ministerial life as he shows a party of school children from Porangahau the private phones on his bench in the debating chamber at Parliament House.”
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Porangahau School
Through the Ages
Material of the very early days is sketchy, but we know that the first school was started in 1867 by a Mrs Hirtzell. Her husband, Lieutenant Hirtzell had been wounded in the Maori Land Wars. Children were charged a tuition fee of 6d a week to attend her small settlers’ school. With the sparsely settled areas and the lack of educational facilities, her initiative must have been a great relief to busy mothers who days were already taken up with running households and attending to the needs of the large families of the times.
If Mrs Hirtzell kept written records, there is no trace of them now, and written material starts almost twenty years later in 1886 when Mr Weiss was in charge. However it is known that at least three teachers had passed through the school; these were Mrs Doria, Mr A. Ward and Mr Ballantyne.
Mr Weiss 1886 – 1893
The first recorded school committee members in the school log were the Rev. F. Simcox, Messrs P. Hunter (new member), A. Ward, T. Crosse, G. White, T. Stewart and A. McLean. Mr Weiss notes that the attendance was “good” with about twenty present. Pupils of the day would have welcomed the meeting’s decision “not to recommend homework” both the chairman and the teacher being averse to it.
Poor attendance was evidently a problem for him. Bigger girls had to stay home if their mother was ill, household ailments were common, and boys disappeared for weeks at a time to help in the woolsheds for shearing. In times of wet weather attendance also rose and fell according to the level of the Porangahau river.
Average attendance was 24 when Mr Weiss’s records started, and an 1886 school inspection reveals 18 boys and 16 girls present.
Mr Rudman 1895 – 1901
By the time of the arrival of Mr Rudman in October 1895, the school room was very crowded and the roll around 42. Mr Rudman’s era records the enrolment of identities now passed on but within living memory – Teddy Kuru, Tom Tutaki and Bill Thomas 1897, Geoffrey White 1900 and Cyril and Percy Hunter 1901. That year notice was given that an extra week’s holiday would be granted for a royal visit from the Duke and Duchess of York.
Reminiscences are on record from two pupils during that time – Bill Thomas and Percy Hunter.
Mr Thomas remembers visits from well-known school inspector of the day, Mr Henry Hill. He was “a bearded gentleman who rode on horseback.” Mr Hill set examination papers which were completed whilst he was at school. According to the marking, pupils passed into the next standard, with the result marked on their certificates.
Mr Thomas remembered being punished on one occasion and being made to stand on a high cupboard at the school. He was lifted down by a “tall girl who took pity on me.” She was Miss M. Sidwell, later to become Mrs F. Herbert. Sporting competitions featured early on in the records and two children were sent to Waipawa to compete at the Hawke’s Bay Schools’ Athletics Sports in 1902.
Mr Hunter, who rode to school daily five miles each way with his brother Cyril and cousin George (later Sir George Hunter), recalls that wet days were an advantage because “one didn’t attend.” Twenty or more ponies made for a very crowded school paddock.
By 1900 the school building was also very over-crowded and another room was in use as well. Mr Rudman was helped by his sister. From Mr Rudman’s departure there followed in quick succession Mr Webber 1902-1903, Mr Gow 1903-1904, Mr Benson 1904-1907, and Mr Robson 1907-19010. Mr Robson’s term was completed by tragedy when the school house burnt down and his wife lost her life.
Mr Stanley Kemp 1910 – 1922
83 years have passed since this redoubtable gentleman first took up the reins, but memories of him proved to be indelibly imprinted in the minds of former pupils Mate Beattie, Henare Petuha, Wally Scott, Ted Forrest and Muriel Clifton (later Dean).
Stanley Kemp was a strict teacher who always carried his strap in his hip pocket. It was old and warn, “like a bike tyre” and use to sting. The kids reckoned he soaked it in vinegar to make it sting even more. In Ted Forrest’s words “was there were such discipline as that of Mr Kemp.” Woe betide the artful one who did not raise his cap if he encountered this gentleman on the street away from the school surrounds. “Failure to do so,” remember Mate Beattie, “resulted in the inevitable punishment.”
In contrast to the awe surrounding their head teacher, the primer mistress Miss Lilah Hansard, later Mrs Moroney, is remembered with affection as a: “very kind lade.” At 2 p.m. on Fridays there was her long division lesson with the first one to have the sums finished and correct rewarded with being allowed to go home. Wall Scott was first out more than once.
Miss Treacy, later Mrs Oliver, was another favourite. She taught for twenty years, a familiar figure in her brown suede jacket, brown felt hat, and brogues. Ted Forrest recalls that “no one could ever forget their tables and dates, so thorough was her grounding.”
In those days, he says, pupils had not heard of an apple for the teacher; “instead we used to arrive at school with a parcel of chops that had been carried in a canvas bag on horseback for five miles.”
Classrooms in those days were very plain and children used slates. Primers and standards 1 and 2 were taught in one room and the seniors in the other. Mate Beattie, an outside person for preference, and for whom school was a necessity to be endured, recalls that the windows were too high and blocked off the view.
Wally Scott liked school. He gained Proficiency at 13, and was lured back for two more years when a rugby team was formed.
The “three R’s” were the order of the day, but there were finer arts as well, including the cantata “Soot and the Fairies”, performed under the direction of Mr Kemp at a school concert in 1912. The musical was “very well received” and the concert grossed twenty five pounds.
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School picnics were always an annual favourite. Mr Beattie recalls that his first one was along the Wimbledon Road, between St Hill’s (now St Hill Warren’s) woolshed and house. It was on a flat “with lovely native trees and a creek.” Transport was by dray.
There were also sports days, sometimes at the old racecourse on a part of Braeburn which was later owned by the Healeys. Often the kids had to “make do” with equipment, using a tennis ball for a football. Hockey and rounders were popular although the playground became a quagmire in the winter sometimes there were competitions against other schools, Henare Petuha remembered playing sports against St Josephs in Waipukurau, and closer to home, with Wilder, Mangaorapa and Wallingford schools.
There were “out of school” games as well, Ted Forrest recalls. The “horsemen” from the country, versus “pedestrians” (townsmen) had magnificent battles, as did the schoolboys of the village who played Maori-Pakeha wars on Saturdays, all in good spirit.
To be initiated into school, a ducking was inevitable, unless you were quick to outrun the tormentors as “fleet footed Bill Cook” was able to do. Another “fleet foot” who could have been Jack Redpath the roadmaster’s son, was recalled by Henare Petuha. There was also a teacher Mr Wright who taught rugby and endeared himself to Wally Scott. Playing marbles, another popular pastime, occasionally led to cheating, as some of the boys tried to outwit the expert Harry Twist.
Beautification of the school grounds has been ongoing over the years. Arbor Day was commemorated as early as 1913, with the children spending the day planting matipos along the frontage. Ash and elm trees were planted five years later and on another occasion 50 windbreak trees were planted at the back of the grounds.
Apparently the pony paddock was less of a priority until a group of parents finally complained about the “miserable yard used as a horse paddock.” As some children were riding up to ten miles to school, their concern was probably justified. Muriel Clifton, who rode from Te Uri Road nine miles away on her pony Tamby, recalls arriving so early that Mr Kempt was frequently out chopping wood, still in his pyjamas. Often she rode home into “the teeth of the westerly,” face flat on her pony’s neck while he plodded gamely on.
The 1920 visit of the Prince of Wales to Waipukurau is remembered by pupils of the day as a red letter event in which getting the day off school played a large part. Muriel Clifton describes him with more than 70 years hindsight as being “a poor skinny boy” who seemed “subdued”.
In 1922 the district held a Queen Carnival. Two candidates were put up, with Ngaire Burrill being the winner. She was crowned at an evening social after the school break up, doubtless a festive end to the school year. And so ended the sojourn of Mr Kemp.
He was succeeded by Mr Silcock 1923 – 1930.
The late Maymorn Sciascia (Taylor) gives us an insight into the years up to the mid-thirties, recalling her school days with pleasure. During that era the school grew to three classrooms, with Mrs Moroney teaching the primers, Miss Treacy standards one to three and the Principal the seniors. Pupils had to write an essay a week and always had homework.
It would have been a long day for children like Maymorn who walked four miles daily from the Mangamaire, wet or fine. Apart from school work, there were always chores to do – at home and at school. For Maymorn, school departure was always preceded by bedmaking, lighting the fire, and cutting lunches – four sandwiches and an apple. At school there were no cleaners, so girls tidied the classrooms while the boys swept floors and cleaned toilets.
There were also the daily cups of cocoa. The boys lit the fire for the big iron kettle which boiled on the stove, and the girls made the cocoa in the big white aluminium jugs. Maymorn remembers it was “good for the little ones”. Swimming was a popular pastime. The children swam in the river behind the school and there were carnivals with the champions diving off the bank. One memorable event was an aquatic version of thread the needle, where the girls sat on an overhanging branches to thread the needle, then passed it to their male partners who would swim 50 yards with it to a finishing line.
Concerts, a fancy dress ball with everyone practising in pairs in the Porangahau hall for the grand march, plays, duets and stick games, are all recalled as highlights. So were visits from Lady Hunter, remembered by Maymorn, as being “sweet and gentle and a very special Lady.” She would come to school laden with “goodies”, like homemade sweets and apples on a stick. It was “like a gala.” Pupils who carried on to secondary school were evidently a rarity, but Kathleen Tricklebank and molly Black were two who came to mind.
Maymorn was often top of the class, and had her essays read out to the inspectors. She also enjoyed sewing, recalling the days when aprons, kettle holders and over cloths were made from sugar bags.
Following on from Mr Silcock was Mr Mudgway 1930 – 1933, who is remembered as being “fabulous.”
Then came longtime headmaster Mr Lancaster 1933 – 1946
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School Efforts in Wartime
In keeping with the times, Porangahau school children made their contributions during wartime.
In October 1914 Stanley Kemp records that children willingly gave up their prizes and devoted the funds from a concert to the War Fund. Scarves were knitted and bags made.
In October 1915, 100 pounds was donated from the school concert to the local patriotic committee.
A Red Cross circle was formed in the district at that time, initiated by the late Margaret Hope of Mangaorapa. In 1918 the school was given a half day holiday for the Red Cross bazaar. The girls made a number of articles out of wool and material supplied by Mrs Hunter. The boys contributed 10/- from selling part of their onion crops.
Later, the school sent boxes of books to Trentham military camp and to the Maori Battalion at Palmerston North. The Red Cross continued to be active for the duration of the war.
August 15, 1945, was a day not to be forgotten, when the whole school assembled to listen to the British Prime Minister broadcast the surrender of Japan and the end of the war. School was dismissed for the day at noon.
A Junior Red Cross circle was formed later at the school.
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Early Twentieth Century Porangahau
by Mr M. Beattie (Reprint)
My mother, the late Mrs Beattie, came to Porangahau by coach eighty years ago. For many years she was the local midwife and attended the mothers in the district during their confinements. The late Sam Beattie was the local saddler, his first shop being on the section now occupied by Sonny Holes. This shop was later burnt down and when my father rebuilt, it was on the corner of the section now owned by Harriet and John Tidey.
In those days every family owned cows and there being no fences, they grazed at will. Often the children had to walk as far as Kate’s Quarry, Hunters Station and up to the Old Hill Road to look for them.
Until Sir George Hunter gave the town water supply, all the water for household use had to be carted from wells and springs during the dry summer months and washing was taken to the river. washing days were picnic days with most of the families present, the chosen spot being on what is now Wayne and Linda Cutbush’s property. Sometimes the families walked home, but often Mr Joe Hundleby, who owned the whare which is still on my property, used to transport everybody in his dray. On fine days he would harness his draught horses and take those who wished to the beach for the day, as he was one of the few with a conveyance of any sort. In later years when the bus service started, they would take bus loads to the beach for 3d each.
The courthouse used to be in the old hall which was the section next to the house formerly owned by Ted Cook. This was used as a residence for many years before eventually being pulled down. The store was in the house now owned by Jack Voak. The last coaching stables used were where the Porangahau Rugby Clubrooms now stand. Unfortunately these were burnt down, with the horses that were not burnt having to be shot. The stables were not rebuilt.
No machinery was available in those days and the roadman, Mr Ali Drower, operated with only a pic, shovel and barrow. The late Mr Robert Sidwell was county overseer for many years and was one of the first Justices of the Peace in the district. The section now owned by the Patangata County Council next to the Vicarage, was the site of the first Police Station. During later years the site of the present police Station was chosen.
Race meetings were held on the property now belonging to Mr Gordon Stoddart. These ceased however with the metalling of the roads as the owners of the horses would not risk lameness by riding their mounts and there was no other form of transport. After being given to the Sports Club and duly moved to the site of the present Dog Trial building, the grandstand fell into a state of disrepair and was bought by the late Mr Teddy Kuru.
Until the road from Waipukurau was properly formed, all the groceries, etc were brought up the river by coastal steamer as far as the Makaramu bridge. Often the steamers would become grounded in the river and remain there for several days. After being unloaded at the jetty the goods were transported to the village by horse and bullock drays.
The first doctor to come to Porangahau was Dr Riddell, who used to ride from Herbertville.
Ice cream was first introduced to Porangahau by George Tricklebank. It was made in a churn with a handle attached, the ice having to be brought from Waipukurau by service car. Most of the children would take it in turn to help keep the churn going, as the ice cream took several hours to make.
Mrs Hawthorne was the first official District Nurse. The house now occupied by Kapai and Jackie Wakefield was built for her about 73 years ago.
A shed on the hotel premises was the first garage, but later Mr Somerville moved into a garage on his own section.
H.C. Mills bought the property now owned by Bob Fair from Mr John Winlove who previously owned the site to run a hardware business.
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Memories of Brenda Sidwell Bird
(nee Fallahee 1925 to 1934)
Jottings from my book of memories. We had about 103 pupils with three teachers. I think everyone would remember our dear Miss Treacy who taught at least three generations and Mr Mudgway who indulged us in the classics – with a passion for Shakespeare in which I was lucky enough to take part. Mr M was a very ambitious and strict teacher who inspired Maori and Pakeha alike with his philosophy and general goodwill towards our fellow man. I feel so pleased that I plucked up enough courage to write to him before he passed on and tell him that his teachings remained with us all our lives.
Incidentally Mr Mudgway became one of the highest paid teachers in New Zealand. He seemed quite “touched” to receive my letter of praise and to hear of his ex-pupils of Porangahau. Lady Hunter stands out in my mind for her contributions of great tubs of fruit and sweets to pupils of our school. Our motto by the way was then To Serve, To Seek, To Find and Not To Yield.
When Mr Mudgway left I don’t think there was a dry eye amongst us.
In my day Porangahau was a magical place. My husband George Sidwell would have started school about 1908. These are my most outstanding memories.
Black Family. 19/4/1993
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Memories of Arthur Black
The Blacks were associated with the Porangahau School from 1917 until 1938, with a four year break between 1926/30.
Gavin Black, our father, took up a soldier’s farm on Cooks Tooth Road in 1916. The farm house was situated opposite where Barry Stoddart now lives, and has since been demolished.
Jim Black, his eldest son, attended the school from 1917 until 1923. At first he boarded with Mrs Lambert down the Beach Road, but during his last three years at school rode his pony, Gypsy, seven miles from the farm to school daily. In the three years he did no miss a single day and that was no mean feat when one considers that the road was unmetalled and a veritable quagmire in the winter.
In 1923 my brother Charles was enrolled and for a short period rode to school with his brother. One or two mishaps showed that he was not cut out to be a horseman and my parents decided that for his safety, and their peace of mind, it would be better for him to board in the village with Mrs Drower, where he was joined in due course by his sister Millie and I.
I can well remember being picked up by my brother Jim, now left school, in a gig and being transported, together with Charlie and Milly, back to the farm. For some reason the direct road was closed and the journey was made by way of Mangamarie [Mangamaire] Road and the old Finger Post Road which turned off near Willis’s farm and was the original access to Whangaehu.
During this period the school was a two teacher unit, the head teacher was Mr Silock [Silcock] and the assistant Mrs Moroney (nee Hansard). They were succeeded by Miss Eileen Treacy about 1924. I think she remained there until after the war when she married George Oliver and lived up the Old Hill.
In 1926 the family moved to Waipukurau, but returned in August 1930 when Gavin Black took over the duke of Edinburgh hotel. Four of us were enrolled at the Porangahau School, Mollie in Standard 5, Arthur in Standard 4, Douglas in the lower standards and Ron in the Primers.
The school now boasted three teachers: Mr Alf Mudgway, Head Teacher; Miss Eileen Treacy, assistant in the middle school, and Miss Pat Jeffreys in the infant room.
How fortunate Porangahau was to have a teach of the high calibre of Alf Mudgway. Like the teacher in Goldsmith’s ‘Deserted Village’, if he was a strict disciplinarian, “it was the love he bore to learning that was at fault”.
He drilled the three Rs into us with the help of his blackboard pointer and woe betide anyone who stumbled over the tables.
Memories of Harry McGregor (1930’s)
Growing up during the 1930s wasn’t all that easy, there was very little money around. Bare feet and patched pants were what most of us knew. School days, well yes, the headmaster was always called ‘Sir’ – he looked like a ‘Sir’ (jacket, tie and well pressed trousers). The female staff were all tastefully dressed and as for discipline, I think that long leather strap played a big part, as one of the lady teachers would say if there was any show of rebellion “I’ll take you into the porch and give you a lively five minutes.”
The General Store, run by Bill Harrison, sold everything we country people needed. ‘Old Roachy’ with his shop. Who never let too much pass, ‘Hutanas’ little dairy on the south side of the hotel, run by Buzz and Hine for two years in 1940. They would take icecream, pies, soft drinks and sweets to sell at half-time at the movies. This was later sold to Jim Harrison who moved it to the beach for a home.
The Blacksmith shop was run by Bill Thomas – his old home still stands to this day.
Very little remains of the Porangahau Transport Co., operated by the Ross family. The garage was owned by the Mills family, as was a good portion of Abercrombie Street.
Three trees were planted in the school grounds to mark the crowning of King George the Sixth; one of these trees still stands.
During the war years most radios (operated by car batteries) were tuned only for the news.
Most things during this time were rationed e.g. butter, sugar and clothes, but we all made it.
The Home Guard (Dad’s Army) just trained with bits of wood or broom handles – later, given rifles and uniforms they looked very smart and we younger boysy strutted around wanting to be soldiers.
We practised air-raid evacuation, going down to the shelters and had a great deal of fun, not understanding how close the war really was.
Like all places during this time a lot of our young men left to fight in the war; some came home but a lot never made it back. Some of the songs sung included “Coming in on a wing and a prayer” and “Then the lights go on again all over the world.”
Both the sea and river teemed with fish – you name it, it was there. Snapper could be caught on a hand line. Crayfish they were pack horses, most people remembered this will tell you so. Old Bill the fisherman would row up from the mouth and sell cockles for two shillings (20c) a bucket. Hey – we had it made!
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School Days During the Late Thirties
by Pat Douglas (Reprint)
When I was young there was a phrase which applied to all children commonly known as “being seen and not heard”. It no longer stands. Whether or not this was a good policy is questionable. I for one think it was not, for I often objected and as often regretted this fact. I do think that it inhibited and suppressed anyone who was bursting with life and energy.
However, will all my suppressed notions, I duly started school (I don’t remember this day, but I suppose I must have started, as I remember a very kind teacher who was in charge of the primers). The rooms were ‘the Primers’ ‘Miss Treacy’s Room’ and ‘the Boss’s Room.’ Remember this was the old school. The kind teacher was either Mrs Boyle or Miss Armour.
Often at morning play the good children used to receive a barley sugar from one of these kind ladies. Almost as often I remember missing, almost certainly due to objecting to being suppressed. I’m afraid my thoughts on these occasions were anything but kindly! Instead, this teacher was definitely unreasonable!
There were no school buses in my time and very few bikes. Everyone mostly ran to school but there were some very lucky children who had ponies or horses to ride. I was not one of the lucky ones. There were two holding paddocks, one where the swimming baths are, and the other somewhere by the dental clinic. I used to swap marbles for a ride on a horse and I also used to help tie all the bridles together.
We had a pure and simple language in my time. Subjects were ‘sums’, ‘composition’ and ‘spelling’ to name a few. No ‘maths’ or ‘essays’ for us, and I’d certainly never heard of geometry in Standard 2. However, Miss Treacy used to religiously take our sums each morning and we related in monotonous tones for about the first half hour. Frequently the teacher would say “again.” Then we would get on to composition and spelling. At that stage this was still taught, but somewhere between then and now it has obviously cased – ? I think at this stage the Second World War must have intervened.
During this period I can remember two groups. One was the “goodies” of which I was naturally a member. The others were the “Nazies”. Ironically this group was mostly made up of the kids from the Wimbledon Road. One day I was accused of spying and challenged to a game of marbles. Unfortunately I won and in turn was then accused of cheating. Before I knew what hit me, there I was in the middle of a fish fight with Harata Tipene. I don’t know to this day who won that fight but I do remember that we both ended up with bleeding noses and ultimately became very good friends.
The last three years at school were spent in the ‘boss’s room’. The boss of course was Mr Lancaster, whom I’m sure everyone loved. He was the headmaster throughout my primary schooling and was very popular.
Once snow fell, and there was quite a lot of Mr Kuru’s hill behind our house. I believe that Mr Warwick and Hector Ross told all the children they met in the village that the school was closed for the day and that they could go and play in the snow. I also remember someone getting six of the best for that story.
Being in the boss’s room meant access to tennis racquets, of which there were four. We had one delightful grass court with rambling rose and Virginia creeper climbing up the wire fence. At every school break we would jockey for position in the aisles and make a dash for the racquet. It became quite a feat but was worthwhile if one managed to score.
Then there were the red and black currant bushes. Each morning break, one of the girls had to go and collect a jug of milk from Mrs Lancaster for the staff morning tea. The currants had to be passed twice and I think that quite a lot of speculation used to go on. Would Mrs Lancaster appear, or would the boss see from his room? It was a great temptation, but not nearly as great as the luscious peaches which would be ripe at about this time and would hang over the tin fence into the school ground. We would stand under that tree, willing the fruit to fall to the ground. As long as it did we thought it fair game, but Mr Lancaster did not share our opinions.
I remember my primary school days as being a very happy part of my growing-up. I think that the staff today do a wonderful job, and I know that the facilities and activities of this present school are far superior to those of my day.
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Classroom Conditions – 1936-1939
by an Ex-Teacher, I. Willis (Repeat)
When I came to Porangahau to teach in 1936, the country was slowly recovering from a major depression, and this could not help but be reflected in school and classroom conditions; also, I am afraid, in teachers’ salaries.
The school building was old, but neat and clean, and bright wall charts and posters did much to make the rooms attractive. At that time the senior pupils swept the school, under the supervision of the teacher on duty. The money for the work was paid into school funds, and used for library books and sports equipment. Each Saturday Mrs Drower Senior scrubbed one classroom and the corridor. At the end of each day, desks were wiped inside and out with disinfectant. Slates were used in the Infant Room at this time, mostly for economic reasons, and these too were washed each day with disinfectant. There’s a lot to be said in favour of slates, a wipe with a wet sponge, and today’s mistakes have completely disappeared leaving everything clear for a fresh start tomorrow.
There were few supplies of any kind at this time, and reading cards, number cards, in fact most infant room material was made or bought by the teacher. The lack of handwork supplies enabled the versatile sugar bag to come into its own. With the aid of these useful articles and brightly coloured wool, we made kits, aprons, oven cloths, kettle holders, tablecloths and many other articles, learning in the process to measure, cut, hem and do numerous fancy stitches.
Of course there were no school buses, children from a distance riding horses or bicycles. Those from the Mangamaire Valley came on the Herbertville-Waipukurau Service Car in the mornings, but usually walked home in the afternoons.
There were no pies available, and lunches were bought very rarely. When they were, they usually consisted of biscuits, but one or two children preferred to spend their money on a tin of sardines. Hot drinks were made at school during the winter term. Since shops were open on Saturday mornings there was no need for shopping days.
As there was no District Nurse, it fell to the teachers to check pupils’ heads at regular intervals. We also kept a sharp eye open for sores and when necessary a supply of ointment was given out from the huge tin kept at school for the purpose. Cough mixture was also given out when required, and I seem to remember that milk was provided by the Health Department for certain children during the winter months.
At this period in the school’s history, there was no Committee, Mr Gavin Black being the Commissioner and Mr W. Thomas the Secretary. There was no organised Parent Teachers’ Association, but when we needed the help of parents, it was always forthcoming. School functions always seemed to be well attended, perhaps because there were less counter-attractions. The School Ball was the social highlight of the year and at the end of the year each room had its own Christmas Party, with fruit salad and jelly and a Christmas Tree with a small gift for the Infants. At the break-up classrooms contributed two items, and each children in the school was given a book. The practice was discontinued during the war years.
Children were able to leave school at the age of 14, or when they gained their proficiency certificate. Those who wanted secondary education either boarded away or did correspondence work, as the bus timetable did not suit school hours, and of course the journey to Waipukurau was much more arduous than it is today.
During this time there were three sets of identical twins in the school, Basil and Cecil Mills, Dan and Bruce Wakefield and June and Joan Paku. We soon learned to tell them apart, but rumour has it that Basil once stayed behind and wrote lines for Cecil, who had urgent business elsewhere, or what it after all Cecil who did the work for Basil?
Parents often think that the children of today get a great deal more than they ever did, and of course this is true, but I doubt if they are any happier now than they were then. Small treats are valued when they are few, and children have a bult-in capacity for enjoyment, and an ability to create their own fun, no matter in what day and age they happen to have lived. Teaching methods may vary, and school buildings change, but human nature does not alter, so pupils and teachers remain basically the same.
In 1897 a boy reported that an apple had been taken from his bag in the porch, and in 1907 a cricket team from Herbertville was entertained after the game to a delicious afternoon tea provided by the ladies. Either of these comments would apply equally well in 1968. Perhaps things haven’t changed so much after all.
Page 17
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 1953.
Porangahau Celebrations Open
With 85th Jubilee of School
“Porangahau has been an object lesson to other countries in the bringing up of different races in harmony and mutual respect,” said Mr Harker. The school could be proud of its service in the community, while both Maori and pakeha ex-pupils served with distinction in two world wars.
Foundation Pupils
Acknowledging the congratulations, the headmaster, Mr J.E. Willett, said the school was justly proud of those who had passed through in earlier years. he said that the organisers of the jubilee were particularly pleased to welcome Mr E. White and Mrs A.H. Drower, who were among the first pupils.
First European Marriage Took Place 108 Years Ago
Although Porangahau is officially celebrating 100 years since its settlement, the first European marriage in the district took place 108 years ago. This was mentioned by a former resident, Mr G. Ward, of Hastings, at the school jubilee yesterday.
Bishop Williams is claimed to have officiated at the wedding but the names of the contracting parties could not be traced.
The proceedings opened with a prayer by the Rev. R.C. Aires, the Maori translation being given by the Rev. H.W. Northcroft. The chairman of the School Committee, Mr S.M. Guy, presided and he extended a welcome to the many visitors.
Apologising for the absence of Mr A.H. Sivewright, chairman of the Hawke’s Bay Education Board, Mr C.M. Petersen, Waipukurau, congratulated the school on its progress over the past 85 years. he hoped that the district would continue to enjoy a bright and prosperous period.
Among the many messages of goodwill read by the chairman of the Jubilee Committee, Mr F. Sciascia, were greetings from ex-residents now in America and London. He expressed gratification at seeing so many people present and welcome especially those from overseas.
Summoned by the same bell which was used 75 years ago, pupils and staff of the present and past generations lined up for the roll-call at the Porangahau School yesterday morning. The occasion was the opening functions in the district’s jubilee celebrations. The school came under the control of the Hawke’s Bay Education Board in 1879 but it was active for 10 years prior to that date.
The ceremony was held in conjunction with the 100th anniversary of the district, the first pioneers coming from Wellington to Porangahau in 1854.
Mr Combs Remembers.
Several ex-pupils were called forward to speak of the early days at the school, among the most notable being Mr Combs. He said that when he attended there were 22 pupils. In those days, parents faced many obstacles in order to keep their children at school.
The possessor of an excellent memory, Mr Combs was able to relate many bright anecdotes. He could remember tangis which extended over seven weeks and they finished only because the food ran out. It used to cost £10 to bring a doctor from Waipukurau but to reduce the individual charge, residents soon canvassed for a queue of patients.
Mr Combs said that he was proud of the old school but he agreed that the time had arrived when it should be replaced. He gave an assurance that he would make every endeavour in Parliamentary representations to see that this was achieved.
Other ex-pupils who spoke were Messrs G. Ward, Hastings, R. Howard, Bay of Islands, and E. White, Hastings, and formerly of Porangahau.
Page 18
School Days in the Roaring Forties
by Atareta Sciascia (Reprint)
I have been associated with the Porangahau School both as a pupil (1942-49) and as a member of the staff (1957-58) during my P.A. year.
My memories are of a very happy period in my life, probably because I liked my teachers and because my parents made me realise that I was going to school to work as well as play. All too often during my year of teaching here, I found that pupils regarded school as a nuisance and a stop-gap in their lives, instead of a place where learning and playing go hand in hand. Respect, understanding and some incentives must stem from home, as we cannot expect our staff to teach our children manners as well. Our parents and staff demanded respect for our elders irrespective of our likes and dislikes. There was not the nonsense of parents telling their children that the teachers were not allowed to use the strap – rather the reverse – for example, a big boy swore at the headmaster and then ran away. The prefects chased him but he jumped into the river, swam across and went home. When he arrived home the headmaster was waiting with his parents who duly whipped him and sent him back to school where his mouth was washed out with soap and water in front of everyone. So much for swearing – out loud anyway!!! When I was in Standard 3 we were given our reports in sealed envelopes and told not to open them – but we did. The following day the headmaster came in and said: “All right, stand up all those people who opened their reports.” Nearly the whole room stood up – about forty of us. We were all given the strap – he was pretty tired by the time he reached the tailenders, but he still managed to give three. Nobody dared cry for fear of being laughed at by the others.
In the primers, I remember changing our arithmetic: “one and one are two, two and two are four” and sounding out words “b-a-t bat” and so on.
There used to be a great deal of fighting behind the playshed. Finally the headmaster produced boxing gloves, then they had to fight in front of everyone. The boys did not have a monopoly on fighting either. Some girls used to get behind the playshed too. No hair pulling either! They meant business!
The district nurse used to pay weekly visits to school, to inspect our hair for lice and to see that sores were not prevalent. We also had to go back to the hospital once a year for an X-Ray. It was fun travelling on the back of a truck covered with a canopy. One day our singing was most rudely interrupted by a crash, and we were all thrown into a heap on the tray of the truck. My sister happened to be one of the foundation members of the heap, and finally emerged with fists and language flying. Our teacher, who was sitting in the front of the truck, was the only one hurt. At the beginning of the year, a picnic would be held at the beach, with most of the district arriving to join in the games and races. Those in Standard 5 and 6 had their own little garden plots, and these created a lot of competition between us. The boys grew vegetables which they sold for Red Cross, or to help towards purchases for the school. At the end of the year concerts or fancy dress balls were held, either being well attended, ad fun for both pupils and staff. By the time you reached Standard 6 you felt rather important, and one day my small sister, not yet aged five, strolled into our room. We were writing an essay so the room was very quiet, and the headmaster said “Hello little girl, you shouldn’t be here”. Up came all the heads and my little sister replied “Shut up, you sill old goat, I’m looking for my sister.” Luckily, he laughed and said “Where’s your sister, she had better take you home.” Where indeed was she? I was trying to fit into my ink well.
Prize giving was the crowning glory for Form 2 pupils who walked up to collect their prizes or school-leaving certificates. When I was a pupil, school was a very integral part of our community, but now we parents are inclined to leave it to the staff. We still learn the same things and play the same games, but there lacks the co-operation of too many parents. If they show their children that school is both necessary and desirable, then it may become the same happy place it used to be.
Page 19
Memories of Doug Cater (1966-1969)
I had the privilege of being Principal of Porangahau school for three years and one term 1966-1969, arriving full of excitement after six years at Suva Grammar School, Fiji, accompanied by my wife Joan and two daughters aged five and three. An interesting aside was having to wait some days for the arrival of an Agriculture Department Official before we were permitted to unpack our possessions, which said official proceeded to “wash” in a bucket of disinfectant impregnated water!! “Bones” Langley arrived too, giving the low-down on the school and district and making us welcome.
Impressions? A school with a dedicated hard-working staff who happily spent many hours preparing and analysing class programmes by day, night and weekends, plus being fully involved in a wide variety of extra-curricular activities for the benefit of the pupils. My predecessor, Bob Boyd, later tragically killed in a car accident, had left a school in good heart.
It would be rather hard to say all was plain sailing, as with all occupations there are times when things do not go smoothly, from one point of view or another. Fortunately, as everyone associated with the school knew each other well, most problems were ironed out with commonsense discussion. Well most times anyway!!
The late Tina Tipene chaired a dedicated School Committee working hard for the school, with meetings discussing not only school affairs but also matters of district importance like duck shooting tallies, ewe fair prices, dog trials, fishing, Ranfurly Shield matches and local rugby, plus the odd little bit of gossip!! Along with the support of the Parent Teacher Association, Mrs Shirley Wynne-Lewis presiding, the school provided for its pupils the very best of resources available in those days for classroom and outdoor needs.
At the recent 125th Jubilee it was very interesting to hear ex-pupils commenting on the competitiveness instilled in them as pupils via sports like swimming, gymnastics, rugby, padder-tennis, etc. a competitiveness they said stood them in good stead in later life.
During my period in office, the school roll probably peaked to its highest. Io note the roll on 4 February 1966 was 182 pupils, 116 Maori, 55 European, and 11 Rarotongan. The roll passed the 200 mark by a considerable amount later in the year ensuring two things happened – big classes, some in excess of 50 pupils, and an appointment of a 7th teacher in 1967 much to everyone’s relief.
Some Memories Include: –
Visit to the School and District by Governor-General Sir Bernard and Lady Ferguson on 11 July 1966 and my embarrassment at having to introduce them to residents I had met briefly or did not know! Fortunately their Excellencies must have been used to that occurring and looked after me very well!!
School concerts in the Town Hall involving the whole school led enthusiastically by Barry Pedersen and the late Joyce Haydon. I recall on one occasion much “discussion” arose over the price to charge the audience – 4 shillings or 5 shillings from memory.
Early morning phone calls from a parent living near the beach any time from 5 a.m. on and usually to say a family member would be absent from school. On one occasion he rang to say his son would be absent as he had the “sh-ts”.
Visits from District Nurse Mrs Little, a dedicated person who often had us in fits of laughter telling of some events she had encountered.
One occasion on 23rd March 1966, the school closed due to a lack of water. After many locals had tested their memories trying to locate pipes, plus digging up parts of the playground a speck of dirt was finally found in the tank ball-cock!! Another closure occurred when the septic tank “died”. Both occasions openly welcomed by pupils, secretly by staff.
The school’s full involvement in inter-school activities including gymnastics, Maori and Music Festivals, sports and regular educational excursions to various parts of New Zealand for the senior pupils and to local regions by the younger pupils. Always accompanied by enthusiastic parents. It would be interesting to receive comment and impressions of those events from past pupils.
Kere Wakefield’s pool record of 14.5 seconds established 10 March 1967. Does it still stand as a record?
Special night classes in May 1967 to “teach” adults the basic of the new Decimal Currency soon to be introduced.
The pupil who complained that someone had cut his trousers with a razor-blade on the way home from school, later agreeing he had cut them himself.
The plague of all schools, lunches missing from bags and the placing of a “spy” in a cloak room cupboard.
On 23 July 1967 Porangahau School entered the fast food business by purchasing a pie warmer and providing pupils with hot pies and huge buns – all stored in our deep freeze until the Jubilee Committee donated a deep freeze to the school. An old broom cupboard was converted to a tuck shop managed by Mrs Raita Holes.
Porangahau School’s introduction to a new event for CHB schools – the first padder-tennis tournament held at the school on 2nd November 1968. Naturally Porangahau pupils did very well!! The late “Bubbles” Hokianga winning a two hour marathon 11-13, 6-2, 6-4.
The P.T.A. meetings involving parents, doctors, nurses plus films on human development later shown with parents to children. Always well attended.
The very successful Centennial Jubilee in March 1968 which, as is usual on occasions like that, brought the whole District together. Included was a huge parade and a temporary museum containing scores of articles from yesteryear. Wonder where the items are now?
The numerous “working-bees” e.g. June 1968 repairing and re-classifying all the library books to the Dewey System – a huge task.
A Puka tree from Coppermine Island donated by the Hon. Duncan MacIntyre being planted by the late Tina Tipene and Paul Robertshawe in a hole carefully prepared by Brian and Ian Wakefield. Hope it’s doing well. Are you keeping an eye on it Brian and Ian?
Page 20
Our swimming teams winning CHB swimming sports Fergusson Cup three years in a row – at least!
Tracking down pupils who just happened to be needed to work in “the shed” at shearing time.
The 11 February 1969 arrival on Courtenay McLean’s truck of the ex-Wilder school building after much discussion and Ministerial (Hon. D. MacIntyre) help cutting red tape. Said building becoming the Playcentre, one of the first to be established in school grounds.
Refereeing local rugby teams against out of the district teams, but declining the offer by CHB Sub-union to referee Poho v Porangahau matches. After all I was the one who had to live in the town!!
The excellent duck shooting on a dam above the beach and great fishing in George Hart’s double-ender boat off Blackhead Point.
Who could forget the Calcutta Sweep night arranged for the school (unofficially of course) in the old Golf Club house? The mass exodus that occurred due to a bit of a “disagreement” by a couple of patrons – and no profit for the school!!
My two very fast record breaking trips to Waipukurau Maternity Annexe. One a false alarm, the second just making it in time for the arrival of our third daughter.
They are a few memories of a unique district and a school which invariably gave teachers a great stepping stone for future teaching careers. A school where all staff, teaching and non-teaching, worked hard together for the pupils whose welfare was paramount.
As usual with requests to contribute “memories” there will be many which will be recalled much later, along with those that of course are best not recalled. My best wishes for the continued success of Porangahau School and all who serve and attend, who knows one day there may once again be 200 or more pupils.
Page 21
School in the mid 60’s by Donald Willis
The Form II Class of 1967 were very fortunate to have had a wide range of travel experiences during their time at school. In 1965 the class visited Christchurch at the beginning of the year and Auckland at the end. During 1966 the class undertook a trip to Inland Canterbury including Lakes Ohau, Putaki [Pukaki] and Tekapo and visited the Power Stations on the Waitaki River most notably Benmore, under construction. The next school trip that year was a five day expedition to the West Coast of the South Island including going down a coal mine. In 1967 we were most unlucky and had only one trip to Gisborne for four days.
Looking back the fundraising and organisation of these trips taken by Barry Pedersen as teacher must have been challenging. From memory the trip to Christchurch in 1965 cost each pupil five pounds ($10) each!! How the value of money has changed!
During this time gymnastics started in the school under Peter Watson, Joyce Haydon and Barry Pedersen. Several pupils went on to gain proficiency badges including silver, and in 1967 the gymnastics team won the Central Hawke’s Bay Gymnastics Competition.
Also in 1967 the School Swimming team won the Fergusson Cup for all CHB Primary Schools and the School Rugby Team visited Takapau, beat their 1st XV, received a visit from Waipukurau Primary and beat their 1st XV.
All in all 1967 was a very good sporting year for the school. It was during this period the school uniforms of green jerseys/cardigans, grey shorts/gyms and grey shirts/white blouses were introduced so children would be well dressed on their school trips. The school monogram was also introduced, being designed by Ron Gibson of Blackhead Road.
Memories from Richard Wynne Lewis (1970’s)
One of the great disappointments I had was losing a snap election we held in our Form two year. Perhaps we were ahead of our time, but the leaders of the other three parties were all “girls”. Labour party leader Bridget Atchison made history in winning the vote, perhaps eclipsing Helen Clark. Typical though of an election campaign, I remember there were a lot of broken promises, no heated swimming pool, no free pies for all children at lunchtimes, no tree hut in the playground! It seems appropriate that now this great politician of her time has married David Kirk, Jim Bolger’s adviser!!
We were well schooled on politics, particularly after a visit to Parliament toward the end of our last year. We were introduced to Sir Keith Holyoake, who told us all about the parliamentary procedure and gave us a guided tour. At the end of all this he asked us if anyone would like to ask him any questions? A deathly hush swept over the group, then one little arm was raised determinedly into the air – “Yes Mr Holyoake, how old are you?” The reply came, “I won’t tell you how old I am, but my birthday is on February 11th.” “So is mine!” the kid said!
Page 22
Memories of Carol Tipene
Do you remember when? ……
Porangahau had seven teachers and a non-teaching Principal. The roll being 200 plus and there was a tuck shop where children could buy their lunches and perhaps an ice-cream on a hot day.
There was a bach at the back of the school. It accommodated a single teacher or two. It was probably better remembered by that amazing bath/sofa arrangement – lift up the sofa and ‘voila’ – there’s your bath!
Porangahau became the focus for a television drama “The Epidemic”. The village became a buzz with helicopters and television vehicles. The school playground became the rescue point for removing those children affected by this ‘dreaded sickness’. Many a child hoped that they would get their debut on television.
Rooms 3 and 4 became one – the introduction of open plan teaching. Many parents worked hard to prepare this room. It is now used for the school library.
There were two beautiful Phoenix Palms in the front of the school but sadly one had to be removed because it became a danger to the children as the sharp fronds used to fall quite frequently, narrowly missing children.
The oak tree in the corner of the cemetery provided acorns for the primers so they could make their little acorn men.
The school bazaar became the annual event which brought all the community together. Lots of dedication and hard work by the School Committee made this day so successful.
Buzz Aldrin (astronaut) needed to get away from it all. He chose to come to Porangahau which delighted the school children as he took time to visit the school.
Memories of Guy Stoddart (Late 90’s)
I was a pupil at Porangahau School from 1984-1991. The highlights for me were the trips we went on, especially the week in Rotorua and the week at Riverbend Camp in Havelock North. We also had some really enjoyable day trips e.g. the trek to Cape Kidnappers and the guided tour around the Takapau Meat Works.
Page 23
Memories of John Falloon
Porangahau School
A very special place for me as I worked on a farm property for Walmsley-Canning as a shepherd cadet in 1960 and was taken into the community not as a visitor but friend and local whether it was to the Golf Club, the Badminton Club, or the Euchre school in the hall. Friendly warm people is what the district is about.
There is also something special about the relationship between the first settlers and the more recent ones. Porangahau’s history of independence and pride in achievement, be it a Waka or a place where the sheep were thrust inland after a long trip up the coast, where the telephone line from Wellington first went, or the story of the naming of the areas when Maori warriors searched for a young boy who became lost during a battle, found him and named him Porangahau – “Night of Searching”. He became a great chief and leader.
But today there are new challenges. To maintain the community, new jobs have been created in fishing and now a saw mill is being built. Forestry is becoming popular as people realise that they were too hasty in taking off the bush to create farms. This is not criticism of the past as people had to live and the bush seemed unlimited.
Tourism combing our history, good food and recreation is becoming important and has great potential. People want to see unique and special areas when they travel. Porangahau has that image. More must be done to create the sort of co-operation that has built Wakas, protected the values of two races and built a very strong agricultural base.
The school’s 125th celebration was a time for the past to be remembered and for those who still have in their hearts a vision of what they want to achieve for their home – an opportunity to give something back. That is the challenge for each of us that has been touched by the place that is built on the name of warriors who, instead of lying exhausted after a battle, went to find a little boy in the night – Porangahau.
YESTERDAY
(by Nicky Hall, Daphne Waerea, Annette Phillips and Hineau Black)
Stand up straight,
Shoulders back and show me your nails,
You dirty lad, you fail!
March one, two and touch your toes,
That is how the rhythm goes.
March to the classroom all at once,
Hurry up you sill dunce,
Stand up straight and recite this song,
You get the strap ‘cause you did it wrong!
The hand bell rings,
And skipping ropes swing
Marbles and knuckle-bones,
Cling, Click, Cling.
The day is drawing to an end,
Hope we all can still be friends,
Now the children are on their way,
Tomorrow will be a normal day.
Page 24
Jubilee Cake
Our Jubilee Cake was made by Chris Stoddart and iced by Marilyn Forrest. You’ll agree they made a great job. Thanks Chris for sharing your recipe with us.
Place in a bowl 1½ kgs of mixed fruit, one packet of blanched almonds (optional), 2 TBs golden syrup and 1½ cups white wine. Mix together well and leave overnight.
Cream 250 grams butter with 1½ cups sugar, add 6 eggs one at a time, beating thoroughly after each addition. Add 500 grams of flour and 1 tsp baking powder alternately with the fruit. Bake in 25 cm tin for approximately one hour at 300F or 150C then 1½ – 1¾ hour at 275F or 125C. keep checking as cooking time may vary.
I doubled this recipe for the Jubilee cake.
Cutting the Cake by Oldest & Youngest Pupil, Mate Beattie and Sam Te Puni (Aged 5)
I felt excited and I cut the cake with the old man.
I had a new tee-shirt for cutting the cake.
I cut the cake with a big sharp knife.
There was a picture and then sun on the cake.
by Sam Te Puni.
Page 25
K.M. Tipene-Stevenson
Matthew Chapter 25, verses 14-29
It is not surprising that Matthew uses as a parable a story such as the Talents.
Matthew was a tax collector. He became one of the twelve apostles and of course the author of the first Gospel. It is little wonder that Matthew’s parable would be based on the collection and investment of money.
To one servant he gave five talents, to the second, two talents and to the third one talent.
A talent is not a coin. It is like an account. So to the first servant he would have given him the responsibility for collecting money from five different sources.
He probably said “Go forth my servant and collect those monies which are owing to me from my rental outlets.” So the servant trotted off and collected rental monies from such organisations as Telecom and Power Corp and BNZ and the Area Health Board and possibly even the Ministry of Education, and being a very wise man in the ways of Masters and Monies he promptly invested his money in a Japanese company which was reputed for its risky but frequently successful ventures.
This latest venture was a sure winner. The company called its latest initiative KARAOKE FOR KIWIS.
In a short time the five talents doubled and the servant thus ensured himself an excellent reputation with his master.
Servant number two’s talents came from NZ Post, who apparently contracted the master to produce five thousand red flags which they felt would be very popular with the rural sector of the country to identify them as fee paying customers of the Rural Delivery Services.
Now this second servant was less adventurous than the first. However, knowing his master’s fondness for wealth, he took a calculated risk and invested all his money in Maori fisheries and ‘Hey Presto’, his two talents became four. The third servant was instructed to go to the Inland Revenue Department to collect his Masters refund. Such a rare occurrence was it to get a refund that the 3rd servant hid this talent and kept it safe in order to return it to his Master.
When the Master returned from his overseas hi, he called in his servants and asked for an accounting.
To number one and two servants he gave high praise indeed. “Well done good and faithful servant.”
To number three who could only return what he had received the Master became very angry, “You wicked and slothful servant, I expected from you what was mine plus interest!” The Master took that one talent and gave it to the man who had ten talents (five given, five earned). “To those who have more will be given until they have abundance. For those that do not make use of their talent then even that talent will be taken away!” The third servant was cast out into the night!!
Remember a parable is a fictitious story used to illustrate a point. A parable is a story with a moral.
The story of the talents appears to have a simple moral. If you are given money use that money to make more money for your Master.
OR IS IT THAT SIMPLE, PERHAPS THE MORAL OF THE STORY IS
Use the talents that you are given and you will be well rewarded. Hoard and hide your talents and you will lose them.
The moral of the story becomes a little confused when we think of talents solely in terms of money.
TALENTS are abilities/skills/aptitudes, special gifts. When we think in these terms, everything becomes much clearer.
We all have talents. Perhaps the most obvious ones function through our brain which has begun to develop 28 days after conception. Each in our own way develops our talents throughout life. In our early life our talents are mightily influenced by those people close to us and around us.
If we are careless of our talents or if we hoard them and keep them hidden our influence and lack of input into our children’s lives will often lead to hardship and heartache for both of us.
Do not however let us always take the blame for the heartache of our children. They too must invest their talents, use their skills in order to reap benefits.
If your talent is being the best sponge maker in Porangahau, use and share that talent so that Porangahau will become famous for its sponges. As once upon a time it was for its karengo.
If your talent is golfing, pick and take under your guidance a group of 7/8/9 year olds and watch their progress. In 10 years’ time you will look with pride at the part you played in producing some of New Zealand’s Top Golfers.
Daughter Jennifer has a hand and eye for working with harakeke and other fibres. She came into the school for two days to teach twenty girls how to make taniko earrings. A week later those twenty girls had taught the rest of the senior school who in turn taught older sister and mothers. Now we have a whole school whanau into taniko. A talent shared, a talent multiplied.
If your talent is to be nurturing, then share that talent. If your talent is music, share it, teach it, so that into the world go many music makers.
Watch children share their talents, their skills. An older girl’s teaching a younger child to plait her dolly’s hair, tie her shoe laces, write her name. she is sharing her talent and her investment is doubled. We now have two girls plaiting hair, tying shoe laces, writing, nicking cookies out of the cookie jar.
Patea at a down period in their lives shared the skill of Dalvanius to produce a unique sound in music. The returns on this investment have been shared by all of us.
We all know people who are generous in sharing of their talents.
I admire tremendously the Ward Family, who returned en-mass to Porangahau this weekend to share their joy in being together with all of us.
The strength of a family is a treasured talent. It doesn’t happen accidentally or automatically; it happens
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because it is nurtured and the investment is great in terms of time, understanding and love.
In this year, the Year of Indigenous people. Let us today make a commitment. From this day on let us use our talents, aptitudes, our special gifts to share together to work for each other, to understand that gentleness is not a weakness and that to be different is not a threat, but rather a sign of confidence in those people with whom we share this space – the space given to us for a short time by our Master.
This weekend of the 125th Year of the Porangahau School Jubilee, has been a marvellous experience for each of us.
It would indeed be fitting if as we leave today, we ask ourselves, NOT “what talents I” but more positively “How can I share my talents more widely so that we all benefit – Maori, Pakeha, Rarotonga, and all peoples of this world of ours.” Let it be said of us on the day of accounting, “Well done, Good and Faithful Servant …!”
Kia koutou katoa te whanau a Porangahau. Ma te Atua koutou katoa e manaaki e tiaki i te wa katoa
Tena Koutou, Mihi mai, Kake mai, Piki mai, Aroha mai.
K.M. Tipene-Stevenson
April 1993 – ‘Back to the old days’ – Dress-up day
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Some of our pupils and ex-pupils reflect back on their school days:
School Days
by Amanda Stoddart (1985-1992)
When I first came to school,
I felt so scared,
I didn’t know what to do,
Then I saw a friend,
And ran over to play.
Now I’m glad I came to school,
Even though it’s sometimes hard,
I’ve learnt to share, read and write,
All the things I need to know.
I don’t think I would get a job,
Without my education.
I’m going to remember all these years,
Thank you for Porangahau School,
My friends and memories.
School Days
by Renee Sciascia (1986-1993)
The first day of school,
I was so excited, I ran to school.
I got there on time,
Then the bell rang.
I felt a little shy,
I went inside, I met a friend.
Now I’m older, I now know what
It’s like to read, subtract, add and write.
I’m glad I’m part of Porangahau School.
I was never able to catch a ball,
But now I’m in the top netball team.
Without a doubt I’ll be off to College,
And remember the memories of Porangahau School.
125th Jubilee
(By Hineau Black)
On the 9th, 10th and 11th of April was the 125th Jubilee
For Porangahau School
And I couldn’t miss it – not me –
All that excitement amongst the kids.
I laughed so much, I nearly broke my ribs.
Now the parade is about to start,
With a rat tat tat from the drum.
As I’m doing cartwheels down the road,
I begin to hum.
The Jubilee is nearly through,
Come along my friend,
Church is just about finished,
It nearly is the end.
125th Jubilee
(by Orlando MacDonald)
People are laughing and shouting,
Because the parade is starting.
People are walking down the street,
Some have got bare feet.
The ball was on,
My uncle and his family have gone.
Porangahau Jubilee
(by Joy MacDonald)
Over the years of learning and fun
125 years have finally come
The special event will start to happen
People with excitement are jumping and clapping
The street parade made a slow start
Lots of joy in everyone’s heart
The gymnasts were neat with their cartwheels down the road
In front of them was Mrs Carmichael and her school float
I must admit there were a lot of people there.
Kids and parents from everywhere
Popcorn and toffee apples were sold on the grass
Artwork and writing were inside each class
The clock was ticking and the school bell rang
Some music was played by the Porangahau School band
Later on in the day a powhiri took place
Later after that there was the cutting of the cake
Photos were taken with everyone
All the people had loads of fun
At night in the marquee there was a ball
Everyone had fun, it was enjoyed by all
On Sunday at church the school band played
As they were playing everyone stayed
People thought the Jubilee was simply the best
I thought the Jubilee was a big success.
125th Jubilee
(by Renee Sciascia)
On 9th, 10th and 11th of April it was Porangahau’s 125th Jubilee. Yes 125 years old! Everything went well according to plan. On Friday was the Social evening. Mum and Dad went to it. Adam, Aimee and Paige came to stay and my cousins came out too. On Saturday was the parade, I was in the gym group. We had a stall that was selling sweets and we had a big Easter raffle. When we drew it Miss Hepburn (our school Principal) won. We also had a band, Dad said we were great. On Sunday we had a church service, the school band played at the service. After that it was time to say goodbye and to know that I’ll be at the 150th Jubilee when I’m 37 years old to see all my friends.
School raft 1993
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125th Jubilee
by Nicky Hall
Saturday was the parade down the street,
With lots of people in the burning heat,
The pub was there and many more,
The gymnasts feet were very sore.
When everyone was back at school,
The bank set up and played – real cool,
After that the speeches were told,
With drinks and sweet things being sold.
The powhiri group performed with ease,
The weather was changing to drizzle and breeze,
People were moving into the tent,
And boy that tent needed a vent.
The lunch was served at 12 o’clock,
And the people who made it thanks a lot!
After lunch the photos were taken,
Now it’s so cold people are shaking.
That night people dressed up tall,
Getting ready for the ball,
The ball turned out according to plan,
And everyone complimented the band.
On the last day of the Jubilee
There was one more thing to see,
It was the church service with the band,
They played well again, give them a hand.
All is coming to an end
It was good to see your real old friends,
It’s a beautiful thing to see lots of glee
And you’ll definitely see me at the next Jubilee!!
125th Jubilee
by Edward Willis
The Jubilee was lots of fun,
A good time was had by everyone,
Porangahau School celebrates its 125th year,
With a parade with floats going everywhere,
When people started to arrive the band played,
And lots of speeches were made,
Popcorn and toffee apples were on sale,
As well as a yummy Easter egg raffle,
Many people were reunited with old friends,
Some of who never thought they’d see each other gain,
I was feeling just fine,
Because everyone was having such a great time,
On Sunday the band played hymns for the church service.
Everyone sang loudly as they joined in the chorus.
125th Jubilee
by Benjamin Cooper
5, 4, 3, 2, 1
Marching down the road,
I’ve got a little load,
It’s a real big sign, with 1930-1960
I see a camera, pointing at me.
Oh No! Someone had taken a picture of me!
Rafting!!
By Nicky Hall
The cap gun fires,
And people run,
Trying to win,
Be number one.
The school raft starts off,
With a hiss and a roar,
Getting splashed and bombed,
Getting covered in gore!
The sun beams down,
And the water is cold,
Jump in the water,
Don’t worry we’re bold.
We’re not quite last,
But we’re at the back.
I don’t care
It’s the fun I attack!!
After hours of rowing,
We’re almost there,
Down comes the mud
OH DEAR OH DEAR!!
Raft race 1993
Page 34
Dan Brabner Memorial Prize
Dan Brabner was born in Willaston, Cheshire in June 1937, and was the elder of two sons. During the war years, Dan, with his mother and brother lived with his grandfather in the country and both boys grew up to enjoy farm life and country pursuits. The years 1946-47 were spent in Palestine where Mr Brabner was a member of the Palestine Police Mobile Force. When the family return to England, the boys attended Prep School, Benton in Somerset.
When school days were over, Dan worked for a year on a friend’s farm, in the neighbourhood of his home. After two years National Service, mostly in Germany, he was persuaded by a friend to try his luck in New Zealand. He left for New Zealand in 1959 and went to Mr Eric Powdrell in Wairoa, where he remained for about a year.
He then had a succession of jobs in New Zealand in order to gain a variety of farm experiences. Three years later Dan returned home and spent about seven months there, before returning to New Zealand. He seemed very drawn to this country, and determined to carve out a career for himself. Once again he had a variety of jobs, this time in the Porangahau area, where he stayed until his tragic death in a tractor accident in 1964.
His parents, who live in Breconshire, Wales visited New Zealand in 1965. “One of the best things he ever did was to come to New Zealand,” wrote Mrs Brabner “for we began to understand why Dan loved your country so much and was so happy among you all. He had achieved a peace of mind that is so hard to find in this day and age.”
While in New Zealand Mr and Mrs Brabner arranged for a trust fund administered by the Education Board to be available for a school prize each year. The Dan Brabner Memorial Prize is awarded to a senior pupil who has a well-developed sense of responsibility and attain a good standard both in school work and sport. Part of the available money therefore, is spent on books and sports equipment.
The award was made for the first time in 1965 and so far has been won by the following pupils:
Russell Petuha and Anne Sciascia 1965
Tipene Tutaki and Brett Solvander 1966
Donald Willis 1967
Susan Bowley and Charles Sciascia 1968
Kaye Stoddart and Christopher Mills 1969
Helen Wichman and Paul Bowley 1970
Mere Tamaiva 1971
Robyn Wynne Lewis 1972
Maree Stoddart 1973
Linda MacGregor and Susan Wynne Lewis 1974
Julieanne Sciascia and Owen Stoddart 1975
Teresa Sciascia 1976
Sarah Hunter 1977
Raylene MacDonald 1978
Selina Wakefield and Guy Moroney 1979
Fiona Hagen 1980
Kere Tutaki 1981
Cilla Thompson 1982
Katrina Smith 1983
Tracy Galbraith and Yvonne Kopua 1984
Jason Sullivan 1985
Stacey Wakefield 1986
Raylene Hutcheson and Melanie Stoddart 1987
Sam Hutcheson and Nicholas Sciascia 1988
Kirsty Hunter 1989
Miriam Sciascia and Steven Galbraith 1990
Hayden Hall and Katarina Scott 1991
Amanda Stoddart 1992
Nicky Hall 1993
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Memories from Rona Fisher
Principal 1986 – 1989
Coming to Porangahau School as Principal seemed so natural to me, but I think it was quite a surprise for many of the locals as I was their first woman Principal. I was questioned closely about what I would do about the rugby (and resisted the temptation to pretend that I would introduce soccer instead of rugby), and I know that there were some pessimistic statements about the ability of a woman to “handle” the older pupils. But the rugby kept on going well, the discipline was fine and the school continued to prosper, woman principal and all. I suspect that my claim to fame lay in the massive springcleaning and room changing that we undertook. Trust a woman to want to move all the furniture around.
My time at Porangahau was most enjoyable and I found it an interesting community to live in. my one regret is that I never did master the Porangahau Golf course!!
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Jottings from the Principal
(Julie Hepburn)
Tomorrow’s Schools became a reality with the election of the first Board of Trustees in May 1989. The inaugural Board consisted of Rob Hunter (Chairperson), Donald Willis (Treasurer), Carol Tipene (Secretary), Tipene Tutaki (Minute Secretary), Don Steele, Anne Hutcheson, Morehu Smith and Dennis Sciascia.
The log book reports that they were quickly on the scene – turning out to a working bee on May 30th. Although a cold day the firewood got cut and spoutings cleaned out. As I was not due to take up my duties until the third term in 1989 Brian Hales was appointed as Relieving Principal.
It seems that often, the only way to learn something is the hard way … and so it was for Brian Hales!! One the 9th June, Brian wrote “Lost electricity in Room 2 – checked all fuses twice, rang the Education Board, Power Board, Electrical linesman, Electrical Services, checked the fuses again, tore my hair out, rang everybody again, jumped up and down and blamed everybody – then found the “switch” – it hides up on the right side of the door – don’t feel like telling anybody so that they can go through the same frustration”.
Sorry Brian, your secret is out!!
And so I arrived at the start of the third term. With new enrolments we started with an opening roll of 85. I note that one of my first comments was the short fall in funding … and still that problem remains today.
As the term unfolded – so the workload increased. Tomorrow’s Schools had certainly increased the workload of the teaching Principal!!
The Board worked very hard on their charter, and on 13th November the Charter was officially signed.
1990 heralded the launching of the Waka. On January 26th Tamatea Arikinui o te Waka Takitimu was launched in the Porangahau River. It was a truly magnificent sight to see 36.2 metres of canoe on the Porangahau River.
We started the 1990 school year with a roll of 81 students and 4 teachers. Events during the year included PTA/Staff Book Evening, Book Week and Fancy Dress, BOT Golf Tournament, Renovation of the room at the back of the library started, purchase of a new computer, new gardens at the front and back of the school, Adventure Playground Steering Committee formed, installation of three new free standing fireplaces, major Arbor Day plantings, Community Consultation meetings, Gymnastics festival, Ngati Whai Festival, Sporting Events, CHB Choir Festival, visit by the Senior Citizens, End of Term disco, School Camp at Riverbend – and the list goes on. 1990 ended as it began, on a very special note. On December 13th our carved gateway and Adventure Playground were officially blessed and opened by Rev. Stephen Donald. A lovely day but unfortunately a bit windy. Our adventure playground is a tribute to Don Steele and Heather Willis – it was Heather’s idea and Don undertook most of the work with the help of a group of very enthusiastic parents.
1991 school saw the roll open at 68 – a sign of what was to come. Sadly on 28th February our bus driver Sonny Kuru, passed away. He was a dear friend to us all – he was always there for us – he is sadly missed.
A highlight for 1991 was the school swimming team winning the Fergusson Cup, the major trophy at the annual CHB Combined Primary Schools’ Swimming Sports. This cup was last won by our school in 1969. No doubt many readers can recall being part of this winning team. 1991 saw Nicki Steel, an American, join the staff for the year. This cultural contrast was a great experience for both teachers and pupils.
Anne Hutcheson, a member of our BOT and past member of the School Committee died on 16th June. She was a well respected member of our community and dearly missed by the school.
July saw the school purchase a business computer for the office. You wonder how you ever managed without such a valuable tool.
The twenty-fifth of September saw the formation of the Jubilee Committee under the direction of Peter Wakefield, (and so the hard work began!)
Our school undertook its first review on the 8th of October. This was a learning experience for everyone with the school and community being provided with very positive feedback from the Education Review Office.
The mural at the end of the Junior Block was a whole school project under the direction of a local artist, Duncan Hill. The children had a great time with the mural and believe it or not most of the paint made it on the mural and not their clothes.
Why is that the words shearing and rain go together? Well, so it seemed for the month of November!
The school year ended on a high note with an Armed Defender’s demonstration day staged at our school. From police dogs, to firearms and road blocks – we had it all happening!
The end of term saw us farewelling Nicki Steel and welcoming Bridget Guerin to the staff as a ‘Beginning Teacher.’ 1992 opened with a roll of 70.
The Form 1 and 2 children went on camp with the senior children from Pukehou School. New friendships were formed and great fun had as they managed to survive a whole week under canvas at Wakarara.
The 17th of March saw us having to close the school at 10.30 a.m. owing to high winds. A library window blew in and the macrocarpa tree at the back of the school was badly damaged. Tip Tutaki one of the Board members, came down to the school to lend a hand. He said “he could not recall such strong winds ever before.”
BOT elections were held in June. After consulting with the community it was agreed that all nominees be accepted as the new Board and thus we did not have an election. The new Board appointed was: Rob Hunter, Chairman, Murray Willis, Raymond Tipene, Chris
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Stoddart, Sue Stoddart, Roseanne Hall, Morehu Smith, Jenny Carmichael (Teacher’s Representative) and Julie Hepburn (Principal). Marama Kani joined the Board shortly afterwards.
Disaster struck yet again with flooding throughout the area on July 22nd. The Cooks Tooth and Blackhead bus runs could not operate owing to this flooding. By 11.30 all the children had to be sent home owing to the rising floods. That evening saw Porangahau village (myself included) being evacuated from our homes to the Rugby Clubrooms. There was a threat that the river would flood – but high time came in the wee hours of the next morning and thankfully the levels started to recede.
As the year progressed so did our work for the Jubilee intensify. By the end of the year most things seemed to be in place for the Jubilee.
1993 saw the school open with a roll of 73 pupils and sadly only three teachers. A school’s roll must be 76 to retain their fourth teacher – such are the regulations!
At the end of this year (1993) we send 17 Form 2 students off to college – sadly there are not 17 students coming in at the other end. And so the short term projections are for Porangahau School to remain at three teachers.
Easter saw the Jubilee celebrations become a reality. It was truly memorable event. It has certainly been our highlight this year.
Well that’s about it from me … Porangahau School is truly a very special place. There is never a dull moment – there’s always something happening.
I believe that we are all very fortunate to have a ‘link’ to Porangahau School.
July 22, 1992. Porangahau Floods.
Bottom of the Cooks Tooth Rd, looking towards the village.
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Members of Staff
1886-1909
Principal – Mr Weiss (1886-1895)
Principal – Mr Rudman (1895-1901)
Principal – Mr A Webber (1902-1903)
Principal – Mr Gow (1903-1904)
Principal – Mr H.N. Benson (1904-1906)
Principal – Mr H. Robson (1907-1909)
Principal – Mr W. McClure (1909)
Miss Rudman
Miss Cumming
Miss Cross
Miss Bradbury
1910-1919
Principal – Mr S.M. Kemp (1910-1923)
Miss O. Dagg
Mrs Hansard
Miss Davis
Miss K. Maloney
1920-1929
Principal – Mr Silcock (1923-1926)
Principal – Mr Mudgway (1926-1933)
Miss E.E. Treacy
Miss Higgs
Miss Ballard
1930-1939
Mr A.G. Lancaster (1933-1945)
Miss Jeffrey
Miss M. Armour
Miss J. Power
Miss Friar
1940-1949
Principal – Mr L. Ashton (1946-1948)
Principal – Mr J. Willett (1948-1953)
Miss I.B. Colley
Miss R. Addis
Mrs Ashton
Miss Lithwark
Miss D. Heckler
Miss K. Thompson
Miss M. Barriball
1950-1959
Principal – Mr T.A. Lambert (1953-1955)
Principal – Mr E.M. Livingston (1956-1958)
Principal – Mr E. Hannah (1958-1959)
Mr D. Patterson
Miss Q. Smith
Miss A. Skipper
Mr P. Severinson
Mr D. Gallagher
Miss B. Ansell
Miss K. Paewai
Mr R. Aitcheson
Mrs A. Aitcheson
Miss A. Sciascia
Mr B. Pedersen
Miss C. Lunt
Miss M. Fryer
Miss M. Kummer
1960-1966
Principal – Mr J.H. Slat (1960-1963)
Principal – Mr R.A. Boyd (1963-1965)
Principal – Mr D. Cater (1966)
Mr W. Simeon
Mr R. Aitcheson
Miss P. MacDonald
Miss P. Dakins
Miss V. Wooton
Miss L. Baynes
Mr R. Shand
Mr J. Allan
Mrs J. Allan
Mr J. Omundsen
Mr B. Pedersen
Mrs Haydon
Mr T. O’Dea
Mr R. Griffiths
Page 39
Mr Watson
Mr O. Lambert
Mr F. McKinley
Mrs W. Ropiha
Miss R. Gunn
Mr E. Lobban
Mr K. Omundsen
1967
Principal – Mr D.C. Cater
S.J.C. Mrs V. Ropiha
Reliever – Mrs G. McLean
Mrs J. Haydon
Mr B. Pedersen
Mr P. Watson
Miss R. Gunn
Mr B. Lobban
1968
Principal – Mr K. Omundsen
Relievers – Mrs G. McLean Mrs Kaa, Miss J. Nesbitt
Clerical Asst – Mrs R. Holes
Dental Nurse – Pamela Jordan
Mrs J. Haydon
Miss R. Gunn
Mr B. Pedersen
Mr P. Watson
1969
Principal – Mrs J. Kaa
Relievers – Mrs G. McLean, Miss Snowsill, Mr Gary Robinson,
Clerical Asst. Mrs R. Holes
Dental Nurse – Miss M. McDonald
Mrs J. Haydon
Miss R. Gunn
Mr B. Pedersen
Mr P. Watson
1970
Principal – Mr W. Johnson
Teacher Aide – Mrs R. Holes
Relievers – Mrs A. Solomon, Mrs J. Kaa, Mrs G. McLean
Mrs S. Johnson
Dental Nurse – Miss R. Heath
Mr B. Pedersen
Mr G. Robinson
Miss P.C. Marsden
Mrs J. Haydon
Mrs V. Ropiha
1971
Principal – Mr W. Johnson
Teacher Aide – Mrs L. Scott
Relievers – Mrs A. Solomon, Mr C. Rowatt, Mrs J. Kaa
Dental Nurses – Miss R. Heath
Miss B. Thompson, Miss P. Landsdown Miss P.C. Marsden
New Principal – Mr I. Ellis Miss L. Heppenstall
Mr E. McLoughlin
Mrs V. Ropiha
Mr G. Mills
Mr G. Robinson
Mrs J. Haydon
1972
Principal – Mr J. Ellis
Teacher Aide – Mrs L. Scott
Reading Aide – Mrs J. Kaa
Mrs J. Haydon
Mrs V. Ropiha
Mr C. Rowatt
Mrs A. Solomon
Miss L. Heppenstall
1973
Principal – Mr J. Ellis
Teacher Aide – Mrs L. Scott
Reading Asst – Mrs G. McLean
Relievers – Mrs G. McLean, Mrs D. Rowley
Dental Nurse – Miss Crozier
Acting Principals – Mr H. Findlay, Mr B. Hales
New Principal – Mr E. Thomas
Mrs V. Ropiha
Miss P.C. Marsden
Mr C. Rowatt
Mrs A. Solomon
Miss Thompson
1974
Principal – Mr E. Thomas
Teacher Aide – Mrs L. Scott
Relievers – Mrs K. Renall
Mr B. Stone, Mrs W. Thomas
Mr M. Griffiths
Mrs V. Ropiha
Mrs P.C. Tipene
Mrs A. Solomon
Mr C. Rowatt
Miss W. Wilson
Mr D. Jopson
Page 40
1975
Principal – Mr E. Thomas
Deputy Principal – Mr B. Stone
Teacher Aide – Mrs L. Scott
Relievers – Mrs W. Thomas, Mrs E. Mirams
Dental Nurse – Mrs W. Lee
New Principal 8th September – Mr Ormiston
Mr D. Jopson
Mr M. Griffiths
Mrs A. Solomon
Miss W. Wilson
Mrs P.C. Tipene
1976
Principal – Mr R. Ormiston
Supervisor – Junior Classes – Mrs Tipene
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs T Bland
Mr M. Griffiths
Mrs A. Solomon
Mr K. Williams
Miss J. Francis
1977
Principal – Mr R. Ormiston
Reading Asst – Mr D. Ormiston
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs T. Bland
Mr D. Miles
Mr M. Griffiths
Mr K. Williams
Mrs A. Solomon
1978
Principal – Mr R. Ormiston
Special Needs Teachers – Mr K. Williams
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs T. Bland
Mr M. Griffiths
Miss C. Hancock
Mr K. Williams
Mrs A. Solomon
Mr H. Kelly
1979
Acting Principal – Mrs A. Solomon
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs T. Bland
21st May 1979 – New Principal – Mr K. Bennett
Miss S. Christian
Miss S. Scott
Mr P. Jackson
Mrs M. Gibb
1980
Principal – Mr K. Bennett
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs T. Bland
Mr P. Jackson
Mrs C. Bennett
Mrs A. Solomon
1981
Principal – Mr K. Bennett
Part-time teacher/Reading – Mrs M. Gibb
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs A. Hutcheson
Mr P. Jackson
Mrs A. Solomon
1982
Principal – Mr K. Bennett
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs J. Fair
Mrs C Bennett (Shared Room)
Mr P. Jackson
Mrs A. Solomon
1983
Principal – Mr K. Bennett
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs J. Fair
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Term 2 Reliever – Mr C. Todd
Miss S. Christian – Rest of the year.
Mrs C. Bennett
Mr P. Jackson
Mrs A. Solomon (From 11.3.83)
1984
Principal – Mr C. Todd
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Miss C. Fergus
Miss L. Morris
Mrs A. Solomon
1985
Principal – Mr C. Todd
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Pt Time Teacher/Reading/Language
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Caretaker/Cleaner – Mrs E. Kuru
Miss C. Fergus
Mrs J. Yule
Mrs A. Solomon
1986
Principal – Mr C. Todd
Pt Time Teacher/Reading/Language – Mrs M. Stoddart
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Relieving Principal – Mr J. Wypych (12.9.86)
Miss C. Fergus
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Mrs A. Solomon
Page 41
1987
Principal – Mrs R. Fisher
Pt Time Teacher/Reading/Language – Mrs M. Stoddart
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Miss C. Fergus
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Mrs A. Solomon
1988
Principal – Mrs R. Fisher
Long Term Reliever – Mr A. Carpenter
Part Time Teacher – Mrs M. Stoddart
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Mrs A. Solomon
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
1989
Principal – Mrs R. Fisher
Part Time Teacher – Mrs M. Stoddart
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Teacher Aide – Mrs C. Stoddart
Long Term Reliever – Mr D. Matheson
Acting Principal – Mr B. Hales (Term 2)
Reading Recovery – Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Principal Release/Reading Asst – Mrs M. Stoddart
Principal – Miss J. Hepburn (Term 3)
Mrs A. Solomon
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Miss S. Riach
Mrs S. Cutbush
1990
Principal – Miss J. Hepburn
Term 1 Reliever – Mrs R. Stoddart
Principal Release/Special Needs/Reading
Assistance – Mrs M. Stoddart
Reading Recovery – Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Mrs S. Tully
Mrs S. Cutbush
1991
Principal – Miss J. Hepburn
Long Term Reliever – Mrs J. Carmichael
Principal Release/Reading Asst – Mrs O. Bremmer
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst/Reading Recovery Release – Mrs M. Hewitt
Principal Release/Reading Asst – Mrs M. Stoddart (Term 2)
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Mrs M. Smith – Maori Teacher.
1992
Principal – Miss J. Hepburn
Mrs J. Carmichael – Reading Recovery
Beginning Teacher – Miss B. Guerin
Part Time – Mrs M. Stoddart
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Groundsperson – Mr W. Ropiha
Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Mrs M. Smith/Mrs M. Kani – Maori Teachers.
1993
Principal – Miss J. Hepburn
Principal Release – Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis
Part Time – Mrs M. Stoddart
Teacher Aide/Clerical Asst – Mrs M. Hewitt
Cleaner – Miss K. Kuru
Groundsperson – Mr W. Ropiha
Miss B. Guerin
Mrs J. Carmichael – Reading Recovery
Mrs M. Kani – Maori Teacher.
Page 42
The Carved Gateway
– Jim Hutcheson
To fully appreciate the depth of meaning, the profound implications of these Carvings, one needs to back to Maori mythological origins.
The Spiritual Beginning:
In simplistic terms IO (-Matua Kore) (IO – the parentless one) sprung from out of the great void – Te Korekore. From Te Korekore came the realm of darkness – Te Po – within which IO created Ranginui and Papatuanuku – the Sky Father and Earth Mother. Ranginui was reluctant to release Papatuanuku from his embrace and in the process became the procreator of many children, who were to become the various “Departmental Gods”, or Atua, living within the realm of darkness.
The Separation
Tane was one of these many children (Atua) who were repressed in this way. He sought release from this repression by burying his head in his Earth Mother’s bosom, at the same time thrusting his feet against his Sky Father, thus separating both parents. By this act of separation light and space began to fill the darkness thus bringing about the third state of reality, “Te Ao Marama” – the broad daylight.
The Physical Beginning
Tane was the procreator of mankind. Having no female counterpart he took part of the soil from mother earth to fashion a female form and, invoking authority from IO, Tane was given the Mana to breathe life (Mauri) into his female creation, so giving rise to the first human being. Thus began an evolutionary process which produced mankind. In order to cover his mother’s nakedness, Tane clothed her with forest and plant life and became dominant over the land and all who delt upon her. Tangaroa took over the oceans, Tawhirimatea, the elements of wind, rain and lightning, Ruamako, earthquakes. And so on in diminishing order with the hierarchy of the Departmental Gods or Atua. Various Atua contributed to evolutionary processes. Through empowerment from IO the other Atua, like Tane, created other beings within the physical realm.
The Maori was but a part of this universal creativity and his perception was (and is) that he belonged to the physical environment – but that environment did not belong to him. The “Natural and Physical Resources”, like the REO (language), were Taonga Tuku Iho (in the vernacular “heaven sent treasures”) that the Gods made available for wise use and management within the laws and traditions handed down over the eons of time. Because these things emanated from the Atua, or Gods, it became a customary prerequisite to seek their permission whenever the use of a resource was intended. Appropriate prayers and incantations preceded the use of action. So it was Tane who visited IO to obtain the Wananga (knowledge). IO asked Tane the object of his visit; he replied he wished to obtain the Wananga. IO took him to the courtyard of Te Rauroha and he was purified. They entered the treasure house named Rangiata, where the Whatukura (guardians) gave Tane the Three Baskets of Knowledge and Two Sacred Stones.
Baskets
1: The Kete (basket) ururu matua – of peace, goodness and love.
2. The Kete ururu rangi – of prayers, incantations and ritual.
3. The Kete ururu tau (or Tawhito) – of war, agriculture woodwork, stonework and earthwork.
The Stones (Whatu) were named Hukaatai (Sea Foam) and Rehutai (Sea Spray). The stones were used as a symbol for graduating from the House of Learning. The Baskets of Knowledge and Stones were handed to Tane Whananga who hung them in the Wharekura (house of Learning – School).
Page 43
Summary
The creation and evolutionary processes were continued through the Atua through the Mana, Mauri and Wairua (Authority, Life Essence and Spirit) granted to them by IO. These Atua were responsible for the creation and evolution of all living things, including human beings within the physical world. The Maori was born into this physical environment – it did not belong to him. The Maori role as Tangata Whenua (being born of the earth) was to “wisely manage” the physical world, and to assist him in this task he was given the gifts (Taonga) of Mana, Wairua, Tikanga and Reo being respectively the Power of Representation, Spirituality, Values and Beliefs System and Language. Being as it was a management and guardianship role, he had Kaitiakitanga.
Within the Maori social structure he developed Turangawaewae (permanent settlements) over which he exercised Tino Rangatiratanga, which he enforced through the System of Tapu.
This simplistic outline, designed for the layman, and not the academic indicates the deep Maori spirituality that does go back in genealogical terms to IO. that is why whakapapa is regarded by Maori as being so tapu yet so basic in the hierarchial sense in terms of traditional Mana and Tino Rangatiratanga.
To understand these beginnings is to understand the Maori ethic for modern day “sustainable resource management.”
To understand the sanctity of whakapapa and the notions of Mana, Turangawaewae, Kaitiakitanga and Tino Rangatiratanga is to understand who these Tipuna (Ancestors) are.
Adventure Playground
The idea to build an Adventure Playground to enhance the appearance of the Porangahau School and to provide a challenging play area for the children of the community was mooted at a P.T.A. meeting in April 1991.
The sub-committee comprising of Marion Stoddart, Heather Willis, Don Steele, Barry Stoddart, Gordon Stoddart and the Principal. Julie Hepburn was formed. Funds were raised and with a grant from the Hillary Commission the financial target was reached.
Under the supervision of Don Steele the playground was bult by volunteers and was officially opened, along with the blessing of the carvings above the front gate, in December 1991.
Heather Willis.
Page 44
School Band
Amelia Kaui and Emma Stoddart (Aged 11)
The reason why we like being in the Porangahau school band is because Mr and Mrs Fleming take us on a lot of trips. We love to learn new songs because they are interesting to learn and play. There are sixteen of us in the band; we have six cornets, four clarinets, two saxophones and three drums. We have just had two more people join us to play the keyboard and the piano-accordion. We often play with the Waipukurau band. We would very much like to thank Mr and Mrs Fleming for taking us.
Page 45
Ngati Whai by Dion Tipene (Aged 13 years)
Looking down at the crowd is a massive experience that happens every year. Te Kata me te manua is felt by the capacity crowd.
Getting ready to go on to the stage is the hardest part. Afterwards you feel great!
The first time I have a korero on stage I felt more nervous than I have ever felt before. The curtain opened Ka tangi te titi ka tangi te kaka hoki ahau tihei maori ora…tena koiutou tena huihui tatou katoa. The feeling was great when I had finished. Ko mutu taku korero. Kia ora tatou katoa.
Ngati Whai by Benjamin Cooper (Aged 12)
I first started Ngati Whai in April this year. I did the Haka first and I felt glad to do it. The first Wananga I went to was when Harriet kuru talked me into going. F rom there on in I did my whai korero. I was glad I had the courage to do a whikorero. When I was on stage I was scared because this was my first time on stage in front of a lot of people but after that I felt better again. I think I might do Ngati Whai next year too.
Ngati Whai by Mark Hapuku (Aged 8)
First Time
I stepped out on the stage
Nervous as can be,
The curtains opened,
I noticed people were watching me,
I walked off the stage,
As proud as can be,
I hope I can continue in the Ngati Whai next year.
Page 46
A letter written by ex-teacher Nicki Steel, printed in the New Zealand Geographic Magazine.
‘A joy to behold’
I was particularly taken with the article about the Polynesian Dance Festival (Issue 19).
In 1991 I taught Standard 3 and 4 at Porangahau School in Hawke’s Bay. Never did I tire of watching my students perform Maori songs and dances. Their stage presence at such a young age is something I don’t think you’d find in the US, and the intensity and self-assurance was a joy to behold. Your article, even without sound and motion, captured the same spirit and emotion.
I miss my Kiwi friends and students but New Zealand Geographic brings them all a little closer.
Nicki Steel, Wilmington, Vermont, USA
Gymnastics by Nicky Hall (Aged 13 years)
Gymnastics is a wonderful experience for any child because it builds confidence and strength. I enjoy gym because I love flying through the air and mainly just having a wonderful time. I would advise anybody that is young or old to at least give this sport a try. I’d also like to thank Mrs J. Wynne-Lewis for leading me down the ‘right road to the gymnastics world.’
Photo captions –
Renée Sciascia
Miriam Sciascia
Gymnastics by Ellen MacDonald (Aged 5 years)
I like doing forward rolls.
Page 47
Sport at Porangahau School
(as seen through the eyes of the children)
Cricket by Henry Willis (Aged 11)
I first started playing cricket in 1992 and in that year I made the ‘rep’ team; there were only three people playing from our school that year. This year there are more cricket players, we send in a team every Saturday morning to compete in the competition in Waipukurau.
Rugby by Tom Willis (Aged 10)
When I first played rugby I was playing New Image. I played New Image for one year. In my first year I only got one try, it was a ‘runaway’ try from our own try line. For the next two years I played in the Intermediate grade. During my first year playing Intermediate, I scored one try, it was a kick and chase set up by Kahu Tutaki. In my second year, at this grade, I scored four tries and kicked two conversions. My favourite try that year was when I ran around their whole team and dived for the line. So far I have really enjoyed rugby.
Netball by Anna Hapuku (Aged 11)
The reason why we like Netball is because we have learnt a lot of tricky moves from our coach Mrs Thelwall. She has trained us well this year. We think she deserves a pat on the back. Unfortunately, we lost all our games but some were pretty close. We shot a few goals.
Athletics by Emma St Hill-Warren (Aged 7)
At the Athletics sports I came first and I came second in some races. I went back home and we had tea. We had to have a bath!!
C.H.B. Athletics Sports by Scott Hutcheson (Aged 8)
At the Athletics sports we had sprints, I came 5th. Then we had our relays, we came 3rd. I liked running in the dark with the lights on. It was neat fun.
Cross Country at the Porangahau Country Club by Mere Tipene (Aged 6)
At the Country Club I had a lot of fun. I ran my hardest and came first, Chanel was cheering for me. When I stepped over the finishing line I noticed I had come first, I was very proud of myself. Next year I want to run in the cross country and come first again.
Page 48
Cross Country Team 1992
Swimming by William Willis (age 12)
When you are in the school swimming team you have to have a lot of commitment, like being at school early in the mornings to train, even when it’s raining and the water is freezing. The trainings were very hard because Miss Hepburn was always trying to get the best out of us.
School Trips
Hunters Pool
Sand dunes
Matahiwi Marae
Page 49
Jubilee Quilt
1993 being Women’s Suffrage year the Porangahau Arts Club Committee decided to apply for a grant from the Women’s Suffrage Centennial Board, who had money made available by Government for projects to commemorate this event.
We succeeded in obtaining this grant and made a three dimensional quilt illustrating the achievements and interests of women over the past 100 years in our district.
As this is Porangahau School’s 125th Jubilee Year, the Porangahau Arts Club decided to give the quilt to the school in recognition of this historical event. We present this today as on Sunday it will be the 28th November and on that day 100 years ago, women first got the vote.
On behalf of the Porangahau Arts Club I would like to present this quilt to the Porangahau School to hang in an appropriate place, and hope the quilt will be a focal point for discussion towards positive attitudes and goal setting for life.
Heather Tutaki (Porangahau Arts Club)
Page 50
Obituary
Bronson James Hutcheson 22.10.1987 – 4.10.1993
Tragically our school lost one of our pupils Bronson Hutcheson this year. He was a very special boy and is missed by everyone.
Your smiling face will always shine
Through the beauty of the rainbow
Across the heavens.
Te toro o te aaniwaniwa
i runga i te rangi
ka whakaahua mai
te ataahua o to kanohi
kia kore koe e wareware
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[List of names in this title still to be added – HBKB]
Subjects
Format of the original
Book paperbackDate published
1992People
- Hilary Pedersen
Accession number
684639Supporters and sponsors
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