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A REPORT ON THE JUBILEE
This report appeared in the Guardian and was supplied by Debbie Bowdler, Jubilee President.
The Motueka District High School and Parklands School 150th Jubilee reunion was held at Easter weekend (2007). The weather was perfect for 500 ex-pupils, staff and partners who gathered at Parklands School to celebrate 150 years of schooling. People travelled from as far away as England, Samoa, Australia and many parts of New Zealand to attend the reunion.
Many families took the opportunity to gather for the weekend, including the Katenes, Darwens, Voigts and Jarvies.
The weekend was a busy one beginning on Friday with registrations and 'meet and greet'. Saturday began with a Powhiri, official opening and cake cutting followed by Kapahaka and Jump Jam demonstrations by current Parklands School children. During lunch, the Motueka Municipal Band played. Then it was time to have a look around the school and at classroom displays, also to have group photos taken. In the evening a dance was held in the Memorial Hall. A non-denominational church service was held on Sunday morning hosted by the Truthfinders church. A spit roast lunch was enjoyed by all in the school grounds with Monty Gibbons providing entertainment and some impromptu line dancing courtesy of some of those attending. A tree donated by the Tasman District Council was planted by former pupils and long-serving staff member, Lesley Fowler.
The week closed with a Poroporoaki before it was announced,"Boys and girls, School is Out!!!"
Photographs are by Pacific Portraits. For those wishing to buy photos of the jubilee, phone Nelson (03) 548-6829, and ask for Todd.