Many locals will recall the tame eels that made the Newport’s farm in Wilsons Rd, home back in the 70’s.
Each day, twice a day, people could visit the farm and see the eels being fed by Mr Newport, with his trusty dog, Lucky, beside him.
To guide the tourists to the attraction was a large carving completed by Garnett Drummond, advising them of the times for visiting, sat out the front of the Wilson Rd homestead. Even the Leyland brothers visited once and did an interview!
Of course, as time moves on, things change, properties change hands, and the eel attraction ceased.
The farm was sold, and carvings seemed to disappear. Until one day, the Lower Moutere School caretaker, Stu Newport, was asked about the carvings that were found on a property in Hau Road. With great interest, Stu visited and relived the story of his father’s attraction.
Skip forward to 2024, Stu decided it was time for the saved carvings to have a permanent home, near to where their life began.
Along with the masterful work of local artist Viki Cowling, the carvings and inserted painting now tell us a story of what was once a special feature of the Lower Moutere region.
Taking pride of place at Lower Moutere School, Stu and his partner Vi unveiled the carvings and painting at their new home, last Friday.
The school is incredibly proud to have this piece of local history situated there now for all to admire and be the carers for. Please feel free to call in and have a look – who knows, Stu may well be there to give you the story of the works himself!
