Since the earliest times, local Māori lived off the land, developed communal vegetable plots, fished the waterways and harvested vegetation from the dense forest floors around Kawakawa.
The new settlers arrived and were to carry on that tradition of cultivating and harvesting crops and stock.
A thriving commercial centre to service this rural industry was very quickly established!
Feilding and the Manawatū District reach a significant milestone in early 2024 - 150 years since the establishment of the Manchester Block.
The first European settlers left England 8th September 1873 on the Duke of Edinburgh and arrived in the Feilding area on the 22nd January 1874 with the other family members arriving two days later.
To reflect on how far our community has come since 1874, and to acknowledge our early beginnings with our Iwi heritage and the diversity of cultures we have today, a steering committee along with the support of local community clubs, organisations and business pulled together a programme of events for the weekend 1,2, 3 March 2024 for everyone to participate and be part of.
A massive thank you to our wonderful community who gave so generously to make this a very special commemoration for everyone who came to be part of and join in our 150th three day event.
To view the photographs taken over the three days ClICK BELOW:
If you need any more information about an event or have a question please feel free to contact us from the details below.
CONTACT US: 06 323 3318
