Each week, Culture 101 puts the spotlight on a different part of Aotearoa. This week, we’re in Feilding in Manawatū as the town celebrates 150 years.
Known to Māori as Aorangi, the first European settlers arrived in Feilding in January 1874 after leaving England on the ship the Duke of Edinburgh, establishing the ‘Manchester Block’ - which would become the town of Feilding.
Next weekend, the eighthe Manawatū Tattoo will take place inside the Manfeild Stadium featuring the NZ Army Band, singer Suzanne Prentice and producer Carl Doy. A cast of 200 includes national and international performers from the region’s pipe and brass bands, Hato Paora College and Bulls Schools, Highland and Scottish Country Dancers, Broadway United Marching and Military Vintage Vehicles.
More than 180 local artists make up the Feilding and District Art Society to celebrate visual arts. Established in 1969, it hosts exhibitions, workshops and it runs the annual Manawatū Art Expo.
Manawatū Mayor, Helen Worboys spoke to Culture 101 about marking the town’s milestone.
