Major Exhibition at CHB Settlers Museum
                                                                 Celebrating 150 years since the founding of Waipukurau.
                                                                                     19th March - 31st October 2017
 

     Henry Robert Russell, a wealthy landowner born in Dunfermline, Fife, Scotland, founded Waipukurau as a 'model village' in 1867.
     Upon coming to New Zealand Russell purchased part of the Waipukurau Block in 1853 and built his homestead, Mount Herbert.
     In 1856 he built the Tavistock Hotel for his guests and in 1867 purchased a 207 acre block known as the Nature Reserve, where he
     founded Waipukurau as a 'model village'.
     He built seveal cottages and leased sections for a nominal annual rent of one shilling. As part of his concept, he also imposed
     conditions such as only having one town blacksmith, one butcher and one baker. 
     Most early residents were nearly all under engagement as artisans or tradesmen to Russell, who made land available for the town's 
     hospital and school.

     The exhibition will include many photos and items showcasing Waipukurau's early history, running from March to October 2017.
     *Extracts from Hawkes Bay Today.  [READ MORE]

Calender Marks 150 Years

A commemorative calender has been produced for the 150 year celebrations.
Compiled by the CHB Settlers Museum, the 2017 calender features a historic photo of Waipukurau's
Ruataniwha Street, taken around World War 1, on it's cover.
Inside are more early images of the prominentbuildings in the town - including the post office, primary school and 
hospital - members of the first Borough Council, servicemen who fought overseas, and alsoone of Henry Robert Russell,
the founder of the town.

The calender is just one initiative the museum have planned for the town's 150th anniversary.
Proceeds from the calender will go towards publishing a book,Fading Memories, written by Ken Hamlin's (museum
committee member) mother, the late Jessie MacKenzie Hamlin. It is her recollections ofthe people and businesseson
the main street in the town in the 1920's and 30's.

                                        Price : $10, available from CHB Settlers Museum, Four Square, New World, Countdown, CHB District Council, 
                                             Waipukurau Information Centre, Paper Plus, Country Collectables and Waipawa & Waipukurau Libraries.