What's on
This year marks 150 years since the founding of the Hastings township. The Commemoration was launched with a special weekend of events on 7-9 July, however the events will continue for up to a year following this date.
You’re invited to join us, to commemorate this unique occasion.
Looking Back at the History of Westerman’s and Growth of the CBD
Thank you to all those who attended.
Hastings Recollect – digitising 150 years of local history
Tuesday 12 September, 5.30pm. Hastings War Memorial Library.
Gold coin donation.
With Hastings Landmarks Trust and Veronica Hogan
Hastings District Libraries is digitising historic community archives and making it easily accessible online. Learn about about Recollect and how to use it, while we showcase 150 years of Hastings history.
The City of Plains - the Beginnings of Hastings in 1873
Sunday 17 September, 10am to 11am. FREE
Cornwall Park Tea Kiosk, parking on Roberts Street, Hastings
A fascinating talk with Michael Fowler about the early years of Hastings from the sale of the first sections in 1873 (in Francis Hicks' 100 acre block), to the break-up of the larger Riverslea block from the late 1870s to form the earliest stages of modern Hastings. Learn how the railway grew the town, but its location became a later hindrance. Plus, learn what Francis Hicks thought when he visited Hastings in 1911 - for the first time since leaving in 1873.
No cover charge but there is a limited capacity of 50 people. RSVP is essential.
Havelock North Function Centre 25th Birthday OPEN DAY
Sunday 17 September, 11am to 3pm.
Archival displays showing how Council and community worked together to create this wonderful community facility. A chance to reminisce over light refreshments and then to hear a talk by local historian Michael Fowler at 2pm. Keirunga Artists’ Exhibition will be open plus a display by the Havelock North Potters. At 5.30pm the Hawkes Bay Jazz Club’s monthly concert will take place.
Blossom Festival
Saturday and Sunday, 23 - 24 September
Themed ‘Our Hastings’, the festival will embrace the 150th Commemoration of Hastings, with events reflecting the history and growth of our district and our communities.
Knowledge Bank Family Gala Day
Sunday 5 November, Stoneycroft, 901 Omāhu Road, Hastings.
Celebrating the 150th Commemoration of Hastings Township, with The Knowledge Bank.
Enjoy a wonderful day of free, fun family activities and entertainment, as part of the 150th Commemoration of Hastings Township. Located at Stoneycroft, you can also view the Victorian-style colonial house built in 1875. Plus, bring your old photos, newspaper clipping and stories, for capturing by the team of volunteers at the Knowledge Bank.