Ohinemuri Regional History Journal 3, April 1965
During the last weekend in February, representatives of our Societies together with large numbers from Whakatane and Taranaki were the guests of the Waikato Historical Society who planned two Field Days packed with interest.
On Saturday 27 February all gathered at the Soldier's Park on the River Bank where the Waikato President Mr. Jenkins welcomed the visitors and after lunch Mr. Norris reviewed the history of Hamilton. We proceeded in 3 buses to Paterangi Pa (near Ohaupo) where Mr. Hunt explained Gen. Cameron's campaign in the Upper Waikato, illustrating his talk by large scale maps as he also did at Waiari where Major Heapy had won the V.C. At Matakitaki Redoubt Mr. Palmer reviewed Hongi's invasion and at Pirongia Mr. Rodda gave the history of the famous old Library. After an adjournment for p.m. tea, Mr. Hunt spoke on the Alexandra Redoubt where Te Wherowhero surrendered, and at Te Awamutu Mrs. Alison Drummond fittingly told the story of the Mission Station, emphasising the part played by the women of those days. A social evening was arranged at the Art Gallery in the evening.
The tour continued, on Sunday when the party again proceeded to Te Awamutu, the points of special interest being Rangiaowhia Catholic Mission Station and St. Paul's Church (Mrs. Drummond); Rangiaowhia Redoubt, Qrakau and Kihi Kihi (Mr. Hunt); Te-Tiki-0-Ihingarangi (Mr. Palmer re Te Waharoa ) and finally for Cambridge (Mr. Hunt). Mr. Swarbrick and Mr. Mandeno of the Te Awamutu Historical Society were the commentators on the Coaches and they with the other speakers and organisers earned the greatest thanks and praise for the magnificent team work which made the weekend such an outstanding success.