Centenary celebration

For 100 years, Hakaru Hall has brought people together from across the river valley. Next month, the community will gather once more to celebrate the grand old hall’s centenary.

First opened in 1926, the 337sqm hall with its striking mataī floor, has served many purposes over the years, including as a school, church, community centre, indoor bowling club and badminton club.

The centenary celebrations on November 7 and 8 will explore the hall’s past through displays of photographs, stories and historical memories.

With many of the hall’s historical records lost over time, the committee invited locals to share their own stories, memories and photographs, helping to build a picture of the hall’s history and the people who made Hakaru their home.

The celebrations will also be a stop on this year’s Mangawhai Garden Ramble, which is raising money for Mangawhai Kindergarten’s upcoming relocation. Entertainment will include live music from the Hakaru Harmonisers, an a cappella group formed especially for the occasion, and other local performers.

In 2024, Hakaru Hall received a Lotto grant, which funded a refresh, including a new entranceway and upgrades to some of the older amenities, allowing the hall to continue to be well used by the community and local groups. It also often plays host to events like weddings, funerals, exhibitions, meetings and other functions.

The centenary celebrations will run from 10am to 3pm each day at Hakaru Hall, Settlement Road. Live entertainment starts at 1pm, light refreshments will be available and entry is free. Locals are invited to come along and discover the history of Hakaru and its surrounding area.