The Photonews is an awesome source of photographs for a bygone era, the 60s in Rotorua. This popular publication was in print from 1963-1969
In Rotorua Photonews, No. 25, September 25th 1965,
there are two pages of photographs, showing how Cook Islands Independence Day,
September 11th 1965 in Rotorua, was celebrated. The Photonews says “it
caught the local Cook Islanders by surprise as they were not sure what
nationality they now are. The festivities were organised at short notice so
were confined to an official luncheon with the Mayor and Mayoress, Mr & Mrs
M, Linton, as guests of honour”. Pages
56-57 show the Mayor and Mayoress taking part in the traditional hula and
festivities of the day.
A full set of copies are
available to peruse in the Don Stafford Room, Heritage Collection of Rotorua
District Library. Come and have a look, you may even see yourself!
