Family and friends gathered to celebrate Wyn Steel’s 100th birthday last month, with some coming from the South Island and as far as Australia for the occasion.
Wyn’s daughter, Liana was instrumental in arranging the special occasion, which included a Maori welcome by Bradley Houia, who also gave the 100-year-old her first hongi. Local Duet En-Tranzet, Nicholas and Tracey-Maree Houia, serenaded Wyn.
Around 30 people attended the event, held at the Stanmore Bay Community Hall.
Wyn’s family says she thoroughly enjoyed her special day and regularly requested the microphone to thank everyone for coming, and her daughter Liana for arranging the event.
She was born Winnie Watson in the Lake District of England, May 28, 1922 and emigrated to Christchurch at the age of five. In 1946 she married Owen Steel on his return from war – they had been engaged for four years after meeting at their first jobs, at Christchurch City Council.
Wyn moved to the Hibiscus Coast 10 years ago, initially living in Stanmore Bay with her daughter. She is now a resident of Evelyn Page Retirement Village.
Her first great grandchild is due in September.
