What was considered to be the best of all the celebrations held in Motueka took place on Saturday, 19 July 1919 - the reason being, ‘peace’.
At 10am, in front of the Post Office, the Territorials and returned serviceman lined up in a hollow square (a square with a space in the middle) and the day’s celebrations began with Horatio Everett reading the official declaration of peace.
The band played the National Anthem in front of a large crowd, after which speeches were delivered by the Mayor (J. Wallace) and R. Hudson, MP.
A tribute was paid to those who made the ultimate sacrifice and thanks given to all New Zealand soldiers with the younger generation reminded of what had been done for them.
Under the direction of Sergeant Major Hurdley, as chief marshal, a procession was formed.
It was headed by the Motueka Brass Band, followed by a muster of Territorials and Cadets.
Next were returned soldiers, in uniform and seated in cars provided by citizens. Each car was escorted by school children on either side, in groups of eight representing the Allies. Banners on each car of the returned soldiers bore the names of battles in which they took part. Civilians and children in fancy dress joined the procession as did St Thomas school children, dressed as Greek girls bearing symbols of peace.
Decorated vehicles, a canoe with wahine Māori demonstrating poi exercises and paddling movements and a lorry carrying children singing waiata and performing a haka completed the line up.
Once the procession was finished the competing groups of school children were assembled in the school grounds for the purpose of being judged by Mesdames T. Ovens, L. Mackay, E. Anderson, and H. Henderson.
France, (Riwaka School) was awarded the first prize for the attention to correct detail in the dresses, and the deportment of the children.
United States (Umukuri) came second with a striking display. Canada (Pangatotara) scored third prize with the dresses being beautifully varied and arranged. Italy (Motueka) was very highly commended, and Portugal (Hau), Serbia (Ngatimoti), and Belgium (Harakeke) were also commended by the judges.
The judging was recorded as being difficult with all being of a high standard.
Around 600 children participated and were rewarded with refreshments provided by the School Committee.
From 1pm to 5pm they enjoyed a picture show, held at the Institute Hall. For the adults, afternoon tea was provided for the returned soldiers in the Horticultural Hall and a seven-a-side football tournament took place in the cricket ground. Eight teams competed and after a spirited contest Wanderers A beat Tikaokao in the final by a try to nil.
The day ended with a torchlight procession in the evening under the control of the Fire Brigade. The route was through High St and Pah Street to the cricket grounds, with the way illuminated by torches and coloured lights. Many of those attending had dressed up in fancy costumes. The finale was a great display of fireworks, and thus ended a day that was long remembered in Motueka and surrounding districts.
