SummaryThe Tauranga Primary School's Diamond Jubilee was held over five days, from Wednesday, August 19 to Sunday, August 23, 1936.
A Celebration of Community, History, and Progress
The 1936 Diamond Jubilee of Tauranga Primary School marked 60 years of educational service and community development. The event commenced with a grand procession through Tauranga’s streets, widely regarded as the most vibrant the town had ever seen. Featuring decorated vehicles, bicycles, Shetland ponies, and costumed participants, the parade was accompanied by the stirring sounds of the Municipal and Pipe Bands, creating a festive atmosphere that captivated the town.
The celebrations continued at the Tauranga Domain, transformed into a hub of merrymaking and entertainment. Highlights included creative floats such as “The Good Old Times, 1800,” “The Mad Tea Party,” and “Blossom Time,” alongside humorous and topical entries like a mock “car wreckers” display and a satirical take on the Auckland Domain statue controversy.
A reunion held at The Rivoli brought together former pupils from across the North Island, rekindling old friendships and honoring the school’s legacy. The Jubilee Ball, scheduled for the following evening, promised to cap off the festivities in style.
Beyond the revelry, the Jubilee served as a poignant reminder of Tauranga’s educational journey—from the early days of limited access to secondary education to the modern era of state-supported schooling. It celebrated the pioneering spirit of past generations and underscored the vital role of education in the town’s growth and identity.
Diamond Jubilee Badge - Donated by Agnes Faulkner - See Ams 476/18/5
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