Katikati recognises the 150th Anniversary of the arrival of the Ulster Irish settlers on the 12-14 September, with a weekend of entertainment and family friendly events for all ages.
Irishman George Vesey Stewart led two groups of settlers to New Zealand. The first came aboard the Carisbrooke Castle and thirty-four families from Ulster, Northern Ireland, arrived at ‘The Landing’, on the Uretara Stream in Katikati on 16 September, 1875. A second group of settlers arrived in 1878 aboard the Lady Jocelyn. Both names live on in local street names.
Māori and the new settlers worked closely together; they withstood early economic problems and from those tough days Katikati has developed into a thriving town, based around farming and agriculture. The town has always had a vibrant community and over 80 volunteer groups provide activities, entertainment and support for the locals. The town commemorated the 100th Anniversary in grand style and this strong sense of community exists today.
The weekend kicks off on Friday 12 September with ‘Rugby Remembers’; rugby players will reflect on various tours and how rugby has evolved over time. The idea was influenced by one of Katikati famous sons Dave Gallaher the captain of the ‘originals’ – the All Black team that was so successful overseas and earned the AB name. Western Bay Museum will have a display of Gallaher memorabilia on loan from the Ponsonby Rugby Club collection.
This will be followed by an evening of Irish Music and song at Katikati Folk Club, in the Arts Junction. Purchase tickets on-line.
Saturday sees a full line-up with plenty of activities planned. There will be music in the market square, a market in the Hub, a photographic display from the archives at the library and as well as rugby memorabilia, the Museum has several exhibitions on display, including the Katikati timeline.
Vintage cars through to the modern age will be in and around town and no festival is complete without a parade from Moore Park into the town centre. Food and drink will be available.
A Settlers’ Dance in the evening will round off the day – an event not to be missed – entry by koha/donation and a plate of finger food (nothing that needs heating).
On Sunday, 11 September, Athenree Homestead will be open with tea and scones and activities for children.
Period costumes (optional) will be in abundance throughout the weekend – come and spend time in Katikati, and join in the fun!
The Longest Journey mural depicts the voyage taken by the Ulster settlers in 1878. Painted by Peter Nicholson, from Whitianga, it was the winner of the 2008 New Zealand Mural festival. The theme for the festival was ‘Journeys’, which Peter captured with an image of the ‘Lady Jocelyn’ sailing ship departing the port in Belfast, Ireland on its voyage to New Zealand. The mural can be seen on the slip road from Main Road to Haiku Park, along with other murals.
Practice run for the big event – the Katikati 150th Anniversary of the arrival of the Ulster Irish settlers. The organising committee get kitted out in period dress. The weekend of 12 – 14 September is going to be busy, with activities for everyone. Dressing up in period costumes is fun – but not compulsory!
