Centennial Carnival At Kaiapoi Next Week-end

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31633, 20 March 1968, Page 10

Centennial Carnival At Kaiapoi Next Week-end

Final preparations are in hand for the procession, sports day and river carnival, which will be held at Kaiapoi next week-end to mark the beginning of the borough's centennial celebrations. The town has a festive appearance, with festoon lighting, banners, huge wooden lettering on a river bank east of the bridge, and shop decorations. The municipal buildings have been steam cleaned and sections are now being painted. Although the actual centennial date is in May, the public festivities are being held this month, to take advantage of more suitable weather. rracMdon The procession will assemble at Willock Street on Saturday, March 23, at 10 a.m. and will leave at 10.30 a.m. along the route of North Road, High, Cookson and Charles Streets, around the Kaiapoi River to Smith Street, along Ranfurly Street tu the domain opposite the woollen mills.

The final number of floats is not vet known, but at least 30 are being prepared so far, and will be supported by two bands, marching girls and novelty items of a historical nature. A bullock team from Banks Peninsula will be a popular attraction if an injured animal has recovered and does not prevent the teams’ arrival.

Gala Programme The gala programme will begin immediately at the domain, when the floats are arranged for display. A ferris wheel, merry-go-round and noddy train will give a carnival atmosphere, and sideshows, manned by local clubs, will include garden golf, sheep guessing and housie. At 11.45 a.m. a short Rugby League

game by the juniors' will be the first event, followed by a novelty fire brigade demonstration. Hang! For 1000 The Mayor of Kaiapoi (Mr H. O. Hills) will speak briefly before the opening of the hangi at 12.45 p m. which will cater for 1000 persons. There will be a small charge per plate, to cover expenses. The North Canterbury freezing works has offered beef, pork and mutton for the meal, during which a Maori concert party will present items. At 1.45 p.m. a sheaf tossing competition will be started by the Kaiapoi Jaycees and further events will include men’s and women’s hockey games, more concert party items, a pancake tossing race, a baby show, a cycling demonstration by the Rangiora Cycling Club and a girls’ marching display. Free hot water will be available, and stalls will offer soft drinks, ice creams and afternoon tea. River Carnival On the following afternoon, March 24, a river carnival, being planned by the Cure Boating Club will start at 1 p.m. with a massed display moving up the river, comprising Maori war canoes, yachts, rowing shells and other varied boats.

The three hour programme will include Maori canoe contests, men’s and women’s rowing races, inter-club and eight oar events and novelty items with punts and baths, and a water-ski demonstration.