The community is being asked to dig through drawers, albums and old boxes as preparations begin to celebrate the Rangiora Town Hall’s 100th anniversary this year.
To mark the centenary, the Council is inviting members of the public to submit historic photographs, posters, programmes and other memorabilia connected to the Rangiora Town Hall and its role in community life over the past century.
Waimakariri District Council Mayor Dan Gordon said the aim was to capture the building’s story through the eyes of the people who have used and loved it.
“We know there are some incredible images and stories tucked away in people’s homes, and we’d love to share them as part of this milestone celebration.
“The Town Hall has evolved so much over the last century and, even after the Canterbury earthquakes, it has survived as one of Canterbury’s remaining heritage landmarks.
“I am very much looking forward to seeing this iconic building celebrated. We are appreciative of a group we have brought together to help us plan the centenary.”
Submitted material may be used in a centenary exhibition, ahead of a formal celebration later this year.
Designed by architect H St A Murray and constructed at a cost of £10,850, the Rangiora Town Hall was opened in 1926 by Mayoress Mrs R McIntosh.
It has long been a centre of civic and cultural life in North Canterbury. Over the years it has hosted countless community meetings and live performances, and once housed the Rangiora library and the offices of the Rangiora Borough Council.
From “moving pictures” in its early days to the three state‑of‑the‑art digital cinemas of today, the Rangiora Town Hall has remained the place for movie‑goers to catch an exciting new release.
The building received Landmarks heritage recognition at a ceremony on 27 May 2010.
Submit your photos and records
Submissions are open until Friday 1 May, and the Council is seeking:
- Photographs (professional or informal snapshots)
- Posters advertising concerts or events
- Memorabilia
- Stories
Make your submission using this form.
Exhibition displays are expected to be installed later in May, with further centenary celebrations to be announced.
If you have any questions, please email townhallcentenary@wmk.govt.nz
Photo caption: Rangiora Town Hall, c.1975 [attribution: Waimakariri Heritage website].