ROBYN PARKES
As the centenary of Nelson’s settlement approached, Brightwater residents rallied to commemorate the occasion and honour the region’s early pioneers.
A centennial committee was elected, including R. Moulder, C. Higgins, W. Martin, A. Silcock, G. Silcock, N. Kearnes, W. Rutherford and Walker. They decided to hold a Queen Carnival from May to August 1939 to raise funds for a Centennial Park.
The carnival raised £618 for the project. Thanks to the community’s early efforts, Brightwater was able to realise its vision while other centres postponed similar plans due to the outbreak of war.
A canvass of the Brightwater district identified about 100 pioneers eligible for Centennial ribbons - those who had lived in New Zealand for 75 years or more.
The Government contributed a subsidy of £177 15s 4d and a grant of £85. While there were strong differences of opinion on how the funds should be spent, the community eventually agreed on creating a Centennial Park with Memorial Gates.
A Flag Committee of local women worked tirelessly to stitch the names of around 1000 people onto a New Zealand flag, replicating their handwriting as closely as possible. The flag was presented to the Domain Board and displayed in Brightwater Hall.
Local MP Mr H. Atmore played a key role in securing nearly two acres of park frontage, while Mr A. White, City Superintendent of Reserves, oversaw the park’s layout.
By March 1940, the grounds were bustling with activity. A bowling green, croquet and tennis courts were built, and the sports field was levelled and improved for football, hockey and cricket. Plans were also made for paths and tree planting, and a sum of money was set aside for a children’s play area.
The dedication of Centennial Park and its Memorial Gates took place on Labour Day, Sunday, 28 October 1940.
Mr W. Max, chair of the Centennial Committee, presided over the ceremony. Canon Bloyce dedicated the gates, Mrs O’Shea of Wakefield cut the ribbon, and Mr Atmore officially opened the park.
The afternoon gala featured games, stalls selling produce, meats, cakes and ice cream.
At the conclusion of afternoon tea, around 94 old settlers received their Centennial ribbons, and the day concluded with a fancy dress and Coster ball, with music by Harold Williams and Son.
