Otaki Street Scene spring 2022

SCENE

What’s on

KĀPITI COAST ART TRAIL 2022: Throughout Ōtaki and the Kāpiti Coast, weekends of November 5-6 and 12-13. See p4-9.

ŌTAKI KITE FESTIVAL: Ōtaki Beach. Back for the 10th anniversary after Covid hit last year. On the weekend of February 18-19, 2023.

WAIKANAE SPRING MARKET DAY: Mahara Place, Waikanae. Saturday October 22, 9am-2pm. Enquiries to: Sonia 027 841 8258.

Talisman

MAHARA GALLERY: Mahara iti, the pop-up space while the new gallery is being built. Free entry. Open 10am-4pm Monday-Friday. See page 14.

MĀORILAND HUB: 68 Main Street, Ōtaki Village. Open: Tues-Sat 11am4pm. For upcoming events go to: https://maorilandfilm.co.nz/events/ ŌTAKI MUSEUM: 49 Main Street, Ōtaki Village. Open ThursdaySaturday 10am-2pm. Current exhibition The way we were, glimpses of days gone by. See Otaki Muse on Facebook or visit otakimuseum.co.nz

ŌTAKI WOMEN’S COMMUNITY

CLUB CRAFT MARKET: Opposite New World, SH1, every Sunday during daylight saving time Contact Georgie 027 234 1090.

TE HORO COUNTRY MARKET: Te Horo

Community Hall, School Road. First Sunday of the month, 10am12.30pm.

ŌTAKI GARAGE

SALE: Third Saturday of the month, 9-11.30am, rain or shine, Presbyterian Church, 249 Mill Rd, Ōtaki. 06 3646449.

Loving Art Trail time

We look forward to the one time of year when Ōtaki’s artists get to showcase their work and skills to a wide audience during the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail.

And each year we seem to have more artists who have either been drawn to Ōtaki and become part of the local art community, or who have been here a while and only just discovered their talents – becoming confident enough to commit to their art and start showing it to the world. The Art Trail is a great way for them to talk to the public about their art, and hopefully sell plenty of pieces to go into homes – and perhaps even galleries and corporate offices – around the country.

Since we published our first Ōtaki Street Scene in spring 2008, 14 years ago, we’ve held strong to a policy of promoting the arts and artists in Ōtaki. Every one of our 57 issues so far has had stories about what’s happening in the local arts scene, and several times (as again in this issue) they have been featured on the cover.

Of course we also feature stories about local businesses, events and our remarkable history. So why should our local art take such a prominent role?

The reality is that communities can be judged on just about every level – culture, inclusiveness, empathy, economic and environmental integrity, you name it – by its acceptance of art as an integral community value. We feel more inspired and healthier when we have art in our lives. Long live the arts.

Debbi Carson, editor

INSIDE:

Ōtaki artists on Kāpiti Coast Art Trail 4-9 Don’t wait to take an arts trip 10 Arts roundup 11

Profile: Sandra Roxburgh and Steve Humphries 12 Light, fresh spring foods 16 Ōtaki’s first mayor 18 Kite festival future secured 19 Ōtaki map 23 A Cinderella ball 24

Ōtaki Street Scene is published quarterly by ID Media Ltd, also publisher of Ōtaki Today and Ōtaki Yesterday. 13 Te Manuao Rd, Ōtaki, 5512 Ph: 06 364-6543 e: debbi@idmedia.co.nz

Editor, general manager and sales: Debbi Carson. Writer: Ian Carson Design: ID Media Ltd • Print: Graphic Press & Packaging, Levin Issue 57: Spring 2022 • ISSN: 1172-7748 (print) – ISSN 2815-9411 (online) No part of this publication may be reproduced without the publisher’s permission. To read Ōtaki Street Scene online, search www.issuu.com

OTAKI artists on show

NOVEMBER 5-6 AND 12-13

In this issue of Ōtaki Street Scene we list the artists in the Ōtaki district (Peka Peka to Forest Lakes) who are part of the 2022 Kāpiti Coast Art Trail. The trail is a vibrant annual event that attracts a huge number of visitors from throughout the region. Visitors can meet local artists and see them at work in their studios, buy their artwork and experience the

Grant Stevenson

SEAGRASS GALLERY

38 Moana Street

Ōtaki Beach

027 231 4643

Open Sunday (summer) 10am-4pm, or by appt. w: seagrassgallery.co.nz Wide variety of skilled work ranging from realism to abstract.

JOS SMITH ART STUDIO

7a Lemon Street, Ōtaki

027 614-4145

Open during the year by appointment.

Jos works primarily with watercolour, mixed media and non-traditional tools for unusual effects in her semi-abstract art of flowers, landscapes, still life and buildings.

ARTIST STUDIO RESET

239 Hautere Cross Road, Te Horo.

021 179 3201

Open during the year by appointment. Artist creates works using techniques from the ancient practice of encaustic painting. Workshops available by appointment.

at Kāpiti Coast Art Trail

natural features of Kāpiti, the great eating places and the accommodation. Entry to all venues is free, and open 10am-5pm every day of the trail. An Arts Guide – at libraries, cafes and other outlets throughout Kāpiti –shows which artists are open year-round, making the trail one to return to throughout the year. Information supplied by Kāpiti Coast District Council.

Trail at kapiticoast.govt.nz

JEWELLER

Gavin Berry ORGANIC DESIGN STUDIO

40 Miro Street, Ōtaki

021 051 3096

Open during the year by appointment. w: odskapiti.com Gavin uses different types of metals to create jewellery and copper art pieces.

POTTER

Margaret Hunt

173b Waerenga Rd, Ōtaki

06 364-8053

027 450-2726

Open during the year by appointment.

The elegant delicacy and luminous colours of this experienced artist’s ceramic domestic ware delight visitors to her studio at her Ōtaki home.

ARTIST COLLECTIVE

TOI MATARAU GALLERY

Māoriland Hub 68 Main St, Ōtaki

Open during the year Mon-Fri, 10am–4pm, Saturday, 10am–1pm or by appointment. w: toi.maorilandfilm.co.nz Stunning traditional and contemporary toi Māori from emerging and established local artists.

JAILHOUSE POTTERY

Jennifer Turnbull

3 Iti St, Ōtaki

021 295-7473

Open during the year by appointment.

w: jenniferturnbull.co.nz Award-winning potter of 30+ years and tutor. Collections of contemporary works, domestic and decorative ware, gas & wood fired porcelain and stoneware.

ARTIST AND SCULPTOR

Lindsay Hey

6 Kingi Te Ahoaho Place (off Millhaven Place) 027 454 2374

Open during the year by appointment. w: artsenvogue.co.nz Lindsay’s works, painting, drawing and sculpture, tend towards expressionism, record her reaction to what she sees or experiences, rather than depicting them representationally.

POTTER

James Carter

12 Waitaheke Road, Te Horo 022 672 7036

Open during the year by appointment. w.jamescarterpottery.co.nz

Quality, high-fired, tactile, fun and functional pottery for everyday use by rising ceramic artist.

POTTER

Neil Hey Studio

6 Kingi Te Ahoaho Place (off Millhaven Place) 027 443 9796

Open during the year by appt. w: artsenvogue.co.nz

Master potter exhibiting wheelthrown durable gas-fired stoneware pottery, finished in vibrant and decorative colours. Also raku and pitfiring.

Enjoy our delicious food, coffee and ambience in

Your local café that

ARTIST

Karen McCall

ORGANIC DESIGN

40 Miro Street Ōtaki

027 226 2094 w: odskapiti.com/artists

Individual mosaics and jewellery, created by “upcycling” vintage jewellery, clocks, watches and mementos to convey memories of loved ones, or to simply delight.

TEXTILE ARTIST

Kathryn Ennis-Carter 55 Settlement Road Te Horo

021 620 757

Open during the year by appointment. Kathryn is a ceramics and fibre/textiles artist, who loves to find innovative ways to combine these media to create imaginative and whimsical works of art.

OLD COURTHOUSE GALLERY 239–245 Main St, Ōtaki

Open during the year Thurs to Sun 10am–4pm w: oldcourthouseotaki. business.site Eclectic, intriguing artworks and fine craft for home or garden, by artists’ collective working out of the historic Old Courthouse.

HEI TIKI TOI 24 Iti Street, Ōtaki

Ariana Summers

021 990 566

Ariana gains pleasure from creating items from wood that can be used and enjoyed by others, as well as pushing herself to improve her skills with each creation.

Ben Keene

021 205 6052

Ben is new to woodturning and due to cutting back his work hours, Ben can enjoy creating and experimenting with wood.

or warm and cosy café.

ARTEL GALLERY

180 Main Highway, Ōtaki

Open Mon-Sun 10am–5pm

w: artelgallery.net

One of Kāpiti’s bestknown art galleries showcasing local artists through an eclectic range of quality and affordable fine art and craft.

ARTIST

Bee Doughty Pratt at Artel Gallery w: doughtyart.co.nz Large and smaller atmospheric, semiabstract paintings, inspired by NZ landscapes, enable varied interpretation by the viewer.

CLAY ART CERAMICS

Paula Archibald 3 Bell St, Ōtaki 06 364-7799 or 027 247-7488.

Open during the year by appointment. Walk up the drive to Paula’s studio gallery and garden to view spectacular, one-off ceramic figurines, fountains, and totems.

PRINTMAKER

Rosemary Mortimer 306 Te Waka Rd Te Horo 027 236 7343 Open during the year by appointment. w: rosemarymortimer.com Unique detailed artworks using abandoned birds’ nests by award-winning, internationally recognised printmaker.

REAL FRUIT

Haneke Koop

STUDIO AT 142

144 Te Waka Road

Te Horo

Open during the year by appointment.

Multimedia artist who is inspired by nature and fairy tales, and creates useful, quirky happy art.

Birgit Moffatt Art Studio 32 Parenga Road Ōtaki Gorge

022 460 2695

Open during the year by appointment. w: birgitmoffatt.com Exquisite artwork with natural materials, rich textures and earthy

weaving, natural dyeing,

SCULPTOR

Sarah Shaw Organic Design Studio 40 Miro Street 021 452 465

Open during the year by appointment. Handcrafted metalwork sculpture and jewellery using precious, semi precious metals and materials that can be reformed, re-used, recycled.

POTTER

Brent Craig 9 Hadfield Rd Peka Peka 027 242-7572 w: awatealodge.co.nz

Open during the year by appointment. Functional domestic stoneware.

great friendly service

Don’t wait to take an arts day trip, weekend or holiday in Ōtaki

The Kāpiti Arts Trail is on in November, but you don’t have to wait to visit our local artists. There are plenty of galleries to go to on your own art trail. Pieces of art not only make great presents, but also the best reminders of a fabulous trip. And don’t forget to stop in for a coffee break at the many options the Ōtaki district has to offer.

If you’re visiting artists at home, please remember to call first as many are open by appointment only.

• Brent Craig Awatea Pottery, 19 Hadfield Rd, Peka Peka. 027 242 7572

• The Hori Gallery, 84 Moana Street, Ōtaki Beach

• Jennifer Turnbull, Jailhouse Studio and Garden, 3 Iti Street, Ōtaki. 021 295 7473

• Jos Smith Art Studio, 7a Lemon Street, Ōtaki. 027 614 4145.

• Lorna Tawhiti, lorna@may15tattoo.com. www.may15tattoo.com

• Margaret Hunt, 173b Waerenga Road, Ōtaki. 06 364 8053 or 027 450 2726

• Lindsay Hey, Artist and Printmaker, 6 Kingi te Ahoaho Place, Ōtaki, 027 454 2374

• Neil Hey Studio Pottery, 6 Kingi te Ahoaho Place, Ōtaki. 027 443 9796

• Rod Graham Clayworks, 35 Ngaio Street, Ōtaki Beach. 027 445 7545

• Sonia Savage, Savage Art, 35 Ngaio Street, Ōtaki Beach. 027 244 7322

• Studio Reset, 239 Hautere Cross Road, Te Horo. 021 179 3201

• Toi Matarau, Māoriland Hub, Main Street, Ōtaki Village. Open MonSat 11-4pm, and by appointment

• Tote Modern Art Gallery, Ōtaki Racecourse, Te Roto Rd. Open Fri-Sun 10am-3pm.

• Wallace Trickett, Ōtaki. 06 364 6069.

• Yvonne de Mille, Mahi Toi, 50 Kirk Street, Ōtaki. 027 442 3106.

ARTEL GALLERY + STORE

How’s your taonga looking? The piece you wear around your neck or wrist. Unravelled string, binding coming apart? Pounamu a little chipped? It’s been sitting in a drawer for years and you’ve always meant to get it fixed so you can pass it down to the mokopuna. Ōtaki’s Artel Gallery specialises in repairs and rebinding. Your precious pounamu is couriered to Hokitika where it’s lovingly restored by artisan Hene. Or if you want to replace it, Artel stocks the widest range of carvings on the Kāpiti Coast. Artel Galley + Store, 180 Main Highway, Ōtaki. ph: 06 210-2517 artelgallery.net

ATB TATTOO STUDIO

Our team is made up of five local tattoo artists with more than 60 years of combined experience. The artists will tell you some stories while creating a piece of art that will help reflect your own story. The studio also offers a range of fine art prints, gift vouchers and apparel for sale. For anyone considering a new tattoo or wishing to fix up an old one, we will be happy to respond to an email or you can call the studio on 04 212 5520. Shop 4, 3 Arthur St, Ōtaki. e: info@abandonthebox.co.nz

PAULA ARCHIBALD STUDIO

Walk up the drive to Paula’s studio gallery and garden to view spectacular and original, one-off ceramics to enhance indoor and outdoor spaces. Paula creates figurines and marionettes with sculptured facial planes that reflect beautifully in interior lighting, hand-built candlesticks for indoor/ outdoor use, and fountains and totem poles that sparkle in sun or rain in the garden. She regularly gives classes to up-and-coming potters at the Ōtaki Pottery Club.

3 Bell Street, Ōtaki. Ph: 027 2477 488. e: Paula.clayartceramics@gmail.com f: Art by Paula Archibald

JARED CARSON ILLUSTRATIONS

Since writing and illustrating his first book, Animals in Vehicles, Jared has not only produced a sequel, More Animals in Vehicles, and Fish Musicians, but also illustrated several other children’s books for other writers. His background as a cartoonist, which began as a 10-year-old with his own cartoon strip in Wellington’s Evening Post newspaper, helps him create unique characters that draw young readers into the wonderful world of books.

Contact Jared at 027 698 7529 or email jayrodeo@gmail.com

From Dark

Hebe: A natural partnership

Like many small businesses, Hebe Botanicals is a lean operation, but that’s more than made up for by the sort of nous required to create unique products.

The Riverbank Road business has been run by Sandra Roxburgh and Dr Steve Humphries since 2000. Since then the company has produced innovative natural products, some of which have been proven to be the best in the world.

Hebe is evidence that science and nature can be perfectly comfortable partners. It’s the result of a desire by Steve and Sandra to use their wealth of scientific experience to create products that have a sustainability provenance, that use what nature provides, and then introduce innovative technology to produce items that are good for the body and the planet.

Two of those products stand out – the Betta Sweet stevia, and the SAFE insect repellent. As a food scientist, Steve is always keen to prove scientifically that Hebe’s products are effective, so they go to independent international laboratories for rigorous testing.

Hebe claims its organic Betta Sweet is the world’s purest, sweetest sugar substitute. And they can prove it.

“We purify our stevia extract by repeatedly crystallising it from our own organic alcohol, which we make here on site,” Steve says. “Independent analysis has shown our purified stevia is over 99 percent Rebaudioside-A, making it the purest – and consequently the sweetest – stevia extract you can buy.”

It’s a popular product because it doesn’t contain the calories of sugar, nor does it have the same effect on blood sugars for diabetics.

The natural insect repellent has also been found to be the most effective on the market – anywhere.

“They test repellents by putting someone’s arm in a glass case full of mosquitos,” Steve says. “Effectiveness is measured by when and how many mosquitos land for a meal. After eight hours, not one mosquito had landed on our repellent.”

Sandra says one of the best results came from a testimonial.

“One of our customers went down the West Coast in summer,” she says. “Of course the Coast is notorious for biting insects, but these people came back without a bite.”

Hebe’s most popular product is CB2, the result of extensive research to find a natural product that reduces pain caused by

inflammatory conditions. The capsules contain 100 percent pure palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a natural protective molecule found in food and also produced in our bodies in response to chronic inflammation and pain.

Scientific studies show it to be effective in a wide range of disorders, including chronic and neuropathic pain due to arthritis, fibromyalgia, lower back injury, migraine, carpal tunnel syndrome, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, shingles, endometriosis and sciatica.

Steve first got into the science and chemistry scene after his family moved from Titahi Bay to Hamilton. Aged just 18, he got a job at Ruakura Research. He then went to Massey University, where he got a PhD in pain research.

“I lectured in a range of subjects that included brain functioning and research methods.”

Understanding the neural mechanisms of pain has been a factor in some of Hebe’s products, especially the CB2 Neuro.

Sandra did an NZ certificate in science after leaving school, then went to Massey helping PhD students working on a vaccine for leptosporosis. Thereafter it was teachers college, and she spent many years at Whitereia Polytechnic teaching cooking skills for unemployed people.

Then about 20 years ago Steve and Sandra got together and “almost as a hobby” started making olive oil soaps under the Hebe name. But as Hebe grew it became clear they were working two full-time jobs, so they decided to focus on their business.

That’s paid off, with them selling a big range of all-natural products that include skin care, health care, pet shampoos, essential oils and even food such as the Betta Sweet and coconut oil. n Hebe Botanicals – Shop 34 Riverbank Rd, Ōtaki – hebe.co.nz – 06 364-6690

Steve Humphries and Sandra Roxburgh at Hebe Botanicals.

Spring . . . the days are getting longer, the air is fresher. It’s enough to put everyone in a good mood.

Spring foods are bursting with fresh ripe flavours and textures, not to mention antioxidants, minerals, flavonoids, and key nutrients your body loves.

Arugula, and other leafy greens such as spinach and lettuce, are abundant and the ultimate spring foods. Rich in vitamins such as A, K and folate, plus chlorophyll, fibre, and even water, these leafy greens will help reduce inflammation while also hydrating and detoxifying your body. Just toss raw greens in a bowl with other veggies, nuts or seeds and drizzle with some extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar or citrus juice. These vegies are also easy to grow in your own garden.

If you love asparagus, then you know it’s a spring food. It is abundant in vitamin K (which you need for blood clotting, heart and bone health, cancer prevention, and many other functions), as well as copper, selenium, B vitamins, and many other important nutrients. It’s delicious simply sautéed with garlic and sea salt in some butter, ghee, coconut oil, or even a little vegetable or chicken stock. Just be sure not to overcook it! You want it to remain vibrant green and retain its shape as it softens a bit, but stop cooking before it gets too wilted. About 10 minutes should do.

Fresh beetroot and carrots – what a combination freshly juiced! Beetroot can lower blood pressure, boost your stamina, and support detoxification, all because it’s a unique source of phytonutrients called betalains. Add them to a smoothie, roast them as a side dish, use a julienne vegie peeler to shave them fresh into salads, spiralise them or make them into borscht.

In season, locally grown carrots are delicious. Rich in vitamin A

Penray Gardens is famous for its 15 acres of home garden produce. Equally famous is our range of Penray Gardens’ home-recipe sauces and relishes made on-site by Jane. We also have a range of nuts, seeds and dried fruits; a variety of spices and seeds in resealable packets; New Zealand gourmet food products. and our local free-range eggs arrive fresh three times a week.

other

healthy

“anti-aging”

my friend

HELEN’S CARROT SALAD

3 large carrots, grated 1½ cups cheese, grated 1 cup roasted, salted peanuts

¾ cup raisins

Dressing: Best made the night before or several hours in advance to enhance flavours and taste. Combine 2tsp sugar, 2 cloves garlic crushed, 2tbsp oil, and 1tbsp vinegar. Sprinkle parsley or coriander over it. Rhubarb is another delicious spring vegetable – yes, a vegetable, but it’s mostly put in the same culinary use as fruits. Rhubarb has a strong, tart taste and is most commonly cooked with sugar and used in pies, crumbles and cakes. Personally, I love it in yogurt, and cook it with stevia, rather than sugar, to make it diabetic friendly. Try this deliciously moist cake.

RHUBARB AND SOUR CREAM CAKE: 10 serves

125g butter, softened 1 cup (220g) brown sugar

Zest of 1 orange 2 free range eggs

1½ cups (225g) self-raising flour, sifted

½ cup (75g) plain flour, sifted 1tsp ground cinnamon

300g sour cream 300g rhubarb, trimmed, cut into 2cm lengths 2 stalks rhubarb, extra, trimmed, cut into 4cm lengths 1tbsp raw sugar Icing sugar, to dust Dollop cream or yogurt, to serve.

Preheat oven to 160C. Grease and line a 22cm springform cake pan with baking paper. Use an electric mixer to beat butter, brown sugar and orange zest in a bowl for 5 mins or until pale and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each. Use a large metal spoon to fold in the combined flour, cinnamon and sour cream in batches. Gently stir in the rhubarb. Spoon into the prepared pan and smooth the surface. Arrange the extra rhubarb on top. Sprinkle with raw sugar. Bake for 1 hour 15 mins or until a skewer inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Let pan sit for 10 mins to cool. Release the cake from the pan and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Dust with icing sugar. Slice and serve with cream or yogurt.

Brandon Ōtaki’s first mayor

As voters in 2022 bring in a new Kāpiti mayor, Ōtaki Ward councillor and community board, it’s interesting to see who was voted onto the Ōtaki Borough Council when it was first established in 1921.

A notice in The Evening Post of March 24, 1921, announced that James Poole Brandon was elected Ōtaki’s first mayor. It was perhaps a logical appointment, as he had been chair of the Ōtaki Town Board, part of the Horowhenua County Council. James had been elected unopposed to the role of a town board commissioner only a year before, on February 3, 1920, after the resignation of Byron Brown.

Papers Past doesn’t reveal any announcement of the first council election, but later newspapers indicate other councillors were Charles Kilsby, James Bills, Harold Taylor, Arthur Broadway and Harold Cockrell. Tom Bax, who had previously also been a town board commissioner, was possibly also elected on to the council, given that newspapers in April 1921 reported that he had resigned. He was replaced by war hero Rikihana Carkeek.

It was perhaps no surprise that all the known councillors were men, and all prominent in Ōtaki business affairs.

James Brandon was a JP who was described at the time as being involved with various local organisations and sports activities, and “well-known and very popular throughout the district”.

He was the mayor of Ōtaki from 1921-29, succeeded in 1929 by First World War veteran and Ōtaki lawyer Charles Atmore. Charles led the borough council – with his wife and local doctor Gertrude as mayoress – from 1929-33 and then again from 1939-53. Between those years (1933-39) Tim O’Rourke was mayor.

James and wife Evangeline had six girls (a boy died in 1890). Evangeline was the second daughter of James Edward Fitzgerald, the first premier of New Zealand.

James Poole Brandon was born in Lyttelton in 1861 and educated at Wellington College. After working in law and the insurance industry, he entered the service of the Colonial Bank of New Zealand in 1890 at Wellington. For some time he was manager of the Palmerston North branch of the bank and on amalgamation with the Bank of New Zealand, he joined the staff, being appointed manager in 1896.

James died at the family home in Waerenga Road on August 20, 1937; Evangeline only four months later, on Boxing Day.

The surviving Brandon children were Maina Higgins (Waikanae), Frances Mander, Ida May Mander, both of Auckland, Ruhina Mason (Ōtaki) and Sydney de Jersey Clere (Wellington).

Another daughter, Rona, had died in 1916, only five years after marrying Douglas Freeman.

The coup’e’s only son, Fitzgerald, died in January 1890 when the family was living in Napier. Fitzgerald was only seven months old.

Cinderella Ball at Ōtaki

from back page Miss Muriel Wilton’s Nautch Dance, with its pulsating Eastern rythm, will (as it always does) receive the approval of all present. The Gay Nineties, a ballet arranged by Miss Kathleen O’Brien, should provide a great deal of amusement, the costumes for which are most ingenious in their eccentricity. This burlesque dance in which is featured A Bicycle Built for Two is extremely clever and will evoke much merriment.

From Ōtaki to the world, the short life of Jody Rongopamamao Ricci (nee Higgott) could have come out of a novel. She lived in many places, met famous people, and lived a life most of us might only read about.

Born in Ō n Read the full story about Jody’s life and view many of her paintings in the 2021 issue of Ōtaki Yesterday

• Ōtaki Yesterday is available from ID Media Ltd, 027 285 4720, debbi@idmedia. co.nz or RiverStone Cafe, Ōtaki Museum, Māoriland Hub, Koha Hair Design and Books & Co.

Another feature of the Ōtaki Cinderella Ball will be a Spanish Ballet performed by the versatile Misses Daniels and Bartholomew. The Court Jester, who at the Wellington ball caused so much laughter and fun, will also be present at the party. Never before in Ōtaki has such a galaxy of “stars’”’ ever been assembled. Every item which has been arranged for the Ōtaki Cinderella Ball is backed by a recent success which won the highest praise from the Wellington press, The Evening Post stating that it was one of the most successful balls Wellington had ever known.

The Romance Duo, a feature at the Ōtaki Cinderella Ball. The dance was created by Miss Kathleen O'Brien, and for the Ōtaki show was danced by her “versatile pupils Misses Dorothy Daniels and Thelma Bartholomew”.

The same organisation is working to make the Ōtaki Cinderella Ball a similarly successful function and both dancers and onlookers are promised a night of unsurpassed revelry.

20

Photo: Ōtaki Mail, October 7, 1932.

No expense has been spared to coordinate every department into a ‘’night of nights.” The Adelphi Orchestra, which is renowned as the finest dance orchestra in New Zealand, has been specially engaged for the ball. An excellent sit-down supper will be provided.

In fact, nothing which can add pleasure and enjoyment to a glorious night’s entertainment, has been overlooked. In the same way, as at the Wellington Cinderella Ball, the cabaret items are interspersed between dances. No item occupies more than four minutes and in no way interferes with general dancing.

The ball will commence at 8.30pm and will continue into the early hours of the morning. Tickets are now obtainable at the Cosy Theatre, and as only a limited number will be issued, both dancers and onlookers should make early application for their tickets. This point is stressed because at the Wellington Ball over 500 applications for tickets had to be refused.

The Gay Nineties, a cabaret item that was popular at the Wellington Ball.

Ball review: ‘Spirited dancing til 2am’

The Horowhenua Chronicle of October 11, 1932, reviewed the ball thus (edited):

The Cinderella Ball, held at Ōtaki on Friday night last, proved a most enjoyable function, and was largely attended. Visitors were present from various parts of the district. The floor space was fully occupied while the dress circle was practically full. Decorations, both in the main hall and supper room were effective, while arrangements, thanks to the organiser, Mr D D McDonald, were complete.

For some time Messrs McDonald, Priestly, and Coxon have worked energetically and it was through their efforts that the function was so enjoyable.

Unfortunately, the Bell bus, carrying several of the performers, met with a mishap and the programme was late in starting. The items, however, caused hearty applause, and encores were demanded. The Adelphi band, Wellington’s leading orchestra, supplied the music and many were the complimentary remarks passed thereon.

A gold wristlet watch, a prize for the best fancy dress, was won by Miss Patching. Other fancy costumes were greatly admired.

The operatic dance Cinderella was a particularly pleasing item and the graceful manner in which Miss Oliver danced delighted all. The tap dance by Miss Bushby was another fine item, but the Gay Nineties Ballet was the one that caused the greatest interest. To the tune of Daisy Bell the company danced to the delight of all, while the riding of the tandem bicycle amused the whole of the gathering.

The exhibition tango by Mr W E Priestly, one of the Dominion’s leading dancers, and Miss Maida Wilson, was an item that received hearty applause, and the pair had to respond to a vociferous encore. The Bubble Dance by Miss Gladys Smyth was gracefully done, and this young lady, the winner of numerous championships, had to respond to an encore. Another dance beautifully done was the Romance Duo by Miss Dorothy Daniels and Thelma Bartholomew. The exhibition quickstep by Mr Priestly and Miss Wilson pleased all, and the dance had to be repeated. The tap dance by young ladies was an item splendidly given. Dancing carried on spiritedly til 2am.

The expenses in connection with the affair were heavy, and although it was a full house, a deficit resulted

The Gay Nineties Ballet was a hit on the night.

Photo: Horowhenua

Photo: Wanganui Chronicle, September 12, 1932

OTAKI

ACCOMMODATION

The Stables @ Talisman, 135 Ringawhati Rd, Ōtaki. 06 364-5893. talisman.otaki@hotmail.com

ARTS & HISTORY

Artel Gallery & Store. 180 Main Highway, Ōtaki. 06 210 2517. artelgallery.net

ATB Studios, 3 Arthur St, Ōtaki. 04 212 5520. abandonthebox.co.nz

Jared Carson Illustrations & Cartoons, 027 698 7529. jrodeo@gmail.com

Mahara iti, 2 Mahara Place, Waikanae. 04 902-6242. maharagallery.org.nz

Old Courthouse Gallery, Centennial Park, Main Highway. Open Thu-Sun 10am-4pm

Ōtaki Museum, 49 Main Street, Ōtaki Village. 06 364-6886. otakimuseum.co.nz Ōtaki Yesterday, ID Media Ltd, 13 Te Manuao Rd, Ōtaki. 06 364 6543 or 027 285 4720.

Paula Archibald Studio, 027 247 7488, Ōtaki.

Toi Matarau Gallery, Māoriland Hub, 68 Main Street, Ōtaki. toi.maorilandfilm.co.nz

DINING & FOOD

Dice, 200 SH1, Ōtaki. 06 364-5472. Fair trade Emporio organic coffee, real fruit icecreams. Oz’s Bakery, 200 SH1, Ōtaki. 06 364-5468. Freshly baked pies daily, cakes, sandwiches. RiverStone Café & coffee cart, south end of highway shops, 170 SH1, Ōtaki. 06 364-6742. Text your order to the coffee cart at 022 476 8613.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Hebe Botanicals, 34 Riverbank Road, Ōtaki. 06 364 6690. hebebotanicals.co.nz

Old School Beauty & Electrolysis, Deb Shannon. 06 364 7075. oldschoolbeauty.co.nz Ōtaki Medical Centre, 2 Aotaki Street, Ōtaki Village. 06 364-8555.

PROFESSIONAL & SERVICES

Inpro Group Ltd, insurance and mortgage brokers. 06 364-6123. inprogroup.co.nz

RETAIL

Hammer Hardware, Titoki St, Ōtaki. 06 364-8389. hammerhardware.co.nz

Penray Gardens, SH 1, Ōtaki South. 06 364-5302. penray@xtra.co.nz

Talisman Nursery, 135 Ringawhati Rd, Ōtaki, 06 364-5893, talisman.otaki@hotmail.com

Watson’s Garden, 17 Bell St, Ōtaki. 06 364-8758. Creating simply beautiful gardens.

REAL ESTATE

Gardner Homes, 10 Gardner Place, Ōtaki. 06 364-8493. gardnerhomes.net.nz

Professionals Property Management, 207 SH 1, Ōtaki. 0800 004 397

Tall Poppy Ōtaki, Brendan Heenan, 027 479 2772. tallpoppy.co.nz

TRADE SERVICES

Concrete Doctors, 10 Rimu St, Ōtaki. 06 364-8634. concretedoctors.co.nz

LEVIN

Superminx, 194 Oxford St, Levin. 06 368-5750. www.superminx.co.nz

To advertise in Ōtaki Street Scene and be listed in this directory, call Debbi 06 364-6543.

Souvenir of The Mayor’s Cinderella Ball, at the Town Hall, Wellington, on September 8, 1932.

Photo Mitchell, Leonard Cornwall, 1901-1971. C Mitchell. [1932].

Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington. records/22837556

Cinderella Ball at Ōtaki

A Cinderalla Ball at Ōtaki’s Cosy Theatre (later the Civic) on October 7, 1932, was cause for plenty of local excitement.

It was the repeat of a ball held in Wellington. A preview in the Otaki Mail described it in all the elegant detail of the era as follows.

For the occasion of the Cinderella Ball, which will be “plain and fancy dress,” the Cosy Theatre will be gayly festooned in readiness for the arrival of Miss Cinderella 1932. Elaborate preparations are now being made to make this ball the most unique function ever held in Ōtaki.

The organiser of the Cinderella Ball, which was a huge success in the Wellington Town Hall recently, has kindly consented to stage a similar ball here and in an interview with Mr. McDonald we have been informed that all the ”star” cabaret items which won so much praise will be repeated in Ōtaki. Cinderella (Miss Phyllis Oliver), will of course be present to receive her guests and will wear the wonderful creation which Messrs Kirkcaldie and Stains Ltd made especially for the ball. She will perform the same stately dance which endeared her in the hearts of all.

The Romance Duo, one of the most beautiful numbers presented at the Wellington Cinderella Ball, will be repeated and without hesitation we say that this classical dance is one of the finest ever presented on any stage. The dancers are Miss Dorothy Daniels and Miss Thelma Bartholomew. Mr W E Priestley and his partner will give an exhibition of the latest tango and quickstep. Miss Gladys Smyth will contribute an excellent exposition of the Liebestraum by Liszt, showing how the classics of movement and sound can be synchronised. continues page 20

Miss Gladys Smyth “The Bubble Dance”. – Horowhenua Chronicle, October 5, 1932.

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