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150th Anniversary of Thames Goldfields
A festival of yesteryears - join us in costume and bring the young ones.
One day they'll be in charge of our heritage.
| Sunday 23rd July | 2pm | Church of Christ 135th Anniversary | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A special 135th Anniversary Celebration Service at 2.00pm. This will be followed by Victorian High Tea. Choose your favourite decade from the last 135 years and come dressed accordingly. Break out your bell-bottoms or bustle; your boob-tube or bow-yangs! Bring photos and memories to share 135 years on "The Thames". (An offering will be dedicated to support Bible in Schools.) Venue: Church of Christ, 415 Parawai Road, Thames Contact: Alison McIntosh Ph: 07 868 3900 Email: mcgaval@slingshot.co.nz | |||
| Monday 31st July | to | Friday 31st August | Life as it Happened on the Thames Gold Fields from 1867 to 1868 | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A weekly blog for one year, by Meghan Hawkes. What happened in that first year after Thames was proclaimed a goldfield? Follow the nuggets of news and gritty gems of daily life as it unfolded 150 years ago. Available online from 31 July 2017 to August 2018 - or sign up for weekly deliveries straight to your email inbox. www.facebook.com/Meghan-Hawkes-Writer-106082842780144/
or visit www.firstyearthamesgoldfield.co.nz Venue: Thames Town online Price: N/a Contact: Meghan Hawkes Ph: 020.40932660 Email: mikemeg@slingshot.co.nz | |||
| Tuesday 1st August | Proclamation of Thames Goldfields 1867 | |||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | This will include a dawn blessing, then at 12.30pm a street parade along Pollen Street (from Willoughby Street and from Cochrane Street) meeting at Thames Civic Centre at 12.45pm for the official opening of the 150th Anniversary of Thames Goldfields. This will include a Karakia, words from The Mayor, Performance of the winning song from the Songwriters' Competition, and a Performance by School Children. Venue: Thames Civic Centre, Mary Street, Thames Price: N/a Contact: Diane Connors Ph: 021 1770746 Email: sar@slingshot.co.nz | |||
| Tuesday 1st August | to | Saturday 31st March | 11am - 3pm | The Treasury Photography Exhibition |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | "Growing with Gold" - A photographic display of Thames from the earliest gold mining days ....This will be open for public viewing on the days The Treasury is open - Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11.00am until 3.00pm, and running for several months Venue: The Meeting Room, The Treasury, Queen Street, Thames Price: Gold coin donation Contact: Miriam Heberley Ph: 07.8675069 Email: bj_mim@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Tuesday 1st August | to | Tuesday 31st July | All Day | Thames 150th Anniversary Original Song Contest |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Original Song Contest for Thames’ 150th Celebration.
This contest is for a composition that is musically and lyrically attractive, historically significant, and will promote Thames’ 150th celebrations. A recording session follows for the winner. Entry forms available from: Dave Greenslade, 07-8675282 and from turuadave@xtra.co.nz
Venue: Tba Price: Free Contact: Dave Greenslade Ph: 07-8675282 Email: turuadave@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 5th August | 9pm | Walk through John William Hall Arboretum | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Hosted by Thames Forest & Bird Society. Guest Guide, Marcia Sowman will take you on an easy walk through the Arboretum. Before this Rosalie Steward, Storyteller, will tell the story of Hall and the Arboretum. Venue: Arboretum, Curry Street Entrance Price: Donation appreciated Contact: Frances Burton Ph: 07 8689707 Email: wharetaare@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 5th August | 10am - 3pm | The Comer Family Book Launch | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | "A Family with a Heart of Gold" book launch. The story of two Devon brothers, born almost 25 years apart, and both of whom came to the Thames Goldfields: Robert, known as "Uncle" Comer in January 1867, and George in January 1880. They came to make a better life for their families. Successful mine managers in their own right, this book covers many family trials, tragedies and successes, with stories of old Thames and Thames people, history, events and places. It is a family history but with many subjects that will interest every reader. The book has been written by two passionate Comer family historians - Jennifer and Sharleen Comer, for the Thames 150th Celebrations. They will be speaking from 10.30am. Venue: School of Mines, Thames Price: Cost of Book $40.00 Contact: Sharleen Campbell & Jennifer Comer Ph: 4sharleen@gmail.com Email: handmedowns@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 5th August | 1:30pm | Tour of Displays at Thames Museum | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | The Official Opening for the 150th display at the Thames Museum will start at 1.30pm with a welcome and speeches. Singers from the "Just Harmony" choir will then perform "Hearts of Gold", a song originally composed for the 60th Jubilee in 1927. This will befollowed by an introduction to the new displays, and a video story "Opening the Field - the Native Terms of Agreement" that will screen in the new auditorium. At 2.30pm Allan Berry will launch his new book "Thames - An Early History 1843 to 1920", and this will be followed by afternoon tea. Venue: Thames Museum, Cnr Pollen & Cochrane Streets, Thames Price: Free to attend Contact: Rosalie Steward Ph: Tba Email: rsteward57@gmail.com | |||
| Saturday 5th August | 5:30pm | Opening Night : John Fields - Thames and Townspeople | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | The Opening Night of an exhibition comprising outstanding images of Thames and the environs taken from 1973 to 1976 by John Fields who conducted a survey of Thames with a QEII Arts Council Grant - the first one awarded to a photographer. These will be screened on a smart TV, and selected photos will be on show. Images include aerial shots and street panoramas. The exhibition will also be screened at Thames School of Mines. After today the Exhibition will be open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11.00am to 5.00pm, and Tuesday & Thursday 4.00pm to 7.00pm. Venue: Bella Street Pumphouse, Thames Price: No Charge Contact: Merv Grafton Ph: 07.8681027 Email: david@galerielangman.com (The curator, | |||
| Saturday 5th August | to | Friday 6th October | John Fields: Thames and Townspeople - A Survey 1973 to 1976 | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | An exhibition comprising outstanding images of Thames and the environs taken from 1973 to 1976 by John Fields who conducted a survey of Thames with a QEII Arts Council Grant - the first one awarded to a photographer. 500 images will be screened on a smart TV, and 50 selected modern prints will be on show. Images include aerial shots and street panoramas. 500 images will also be screened at Thames School of Mines. The exhibition will be open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11.00am to 5.00pm, and on Tuesday & Thursday 4.00pm to 7.00pm. This exhibition runs from 6th August until 6th October 2017. Venue: Bella Street Pumphouse, Cnr Waiokaraka Road and Bella Street, Thames Price: $10.00 Contact: Merv Grafton Ph: 07.8681027 Email: Curator, david@galerielangman.com | |||
| Sunday 6th August | 10am | Holy Communion Service | ||
| - Saint Georges Church is holding a Holy Communion Service using the 1662 book of common prayer. The Venerable Michael Berry will be preaching.
- Followed by a Victorian High Tea.
- We would love you to join us. Venue: Saint Georges Church Hall, 602 MacKay Street, Thames. Price: Service: No cost, High Tea $5 pp / $15 couple Contact: Thames Anglican Church Ph: Office 07 868 6267, Joyce March 07 836 3 Email: info@thamesanglicanchurch.co.nz | ||||
| Sunday 6th August | 10am | A Special Service to mark 150 Years | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A special service to mark 150 years since the gold rush at Thames.
The service time from 10.00am until 12.00 noon, held in the Old Church - The Parish Hall.
Preacher and Presider Ven Michael Berry will lead a traditional
service.
You may like to dress up. Invite your
neighbours.
A Victorian High Tea will follow.
Help the church and community celebrate the place of the church over 150 years.
Venue: St Georges Anglican Church, Mary Street, Thames Price: Offering. Victorian High Tea $8.00 pp, or $15.00 per couple Contact: St Georges Church Office Ph: 07 868 6267 Email: info@thamesanglicanchurch.co.nz | |||
| Sunday 6th August | to | Friday 6th October | John Fields: Thames and Townspeople - A Survey 1973 to 1976 | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | An exhibition comprising outstanding images of Thames and the environs taken from 1973 to 1976 by John Fields who conducted a survey of Thames with a QEII Arts Council Grant - the first one awarded to a photographer. 500 images will be screened on a smart TV including aerial shots and street panoramas. This can be viewed during the School of Mines opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday 11.00am to 3.00pm. For further information contact the Curator david@galerielangman.com Venue: Thames School of Mines, 101 Cochrane Street, Grahamstown, Thames Price: Included in Museum Entry Fee Contact: John Isdale Ph: 07.8686227 Email: tsm@heritage.org.nz | |||
| Sunday 6th August | 9am - 11:30am | Goldmine Experience Stamper Battery Opening | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | This mornings activities of Blessing and Formal Ceremony is for invited guests. 9.00am: Karakia by Ngati Maru; 9.15am Welcome by Hauraki Prospector's Association; 9.30am Speeches; 10.10am Unveiling of Honours Board; 10.15am Tea/Coffee/BBQ. Venue: Goldmine Experience, SH 25, North Thames Price: N/a Contact: Paul Bensemann Ph: 021 2142665 Email: story@actrix.co.nz | |||
| Sunday 6th August | 1pm | Goldmine Experience Stamper Battery Opening | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Hauraki Prospectors Association present a celebration of the old and creative, with mini tours, colourful machinery, stories of the past told by Rosalie Steward, display of classic cars, and the a Steampunk presence. Venue: Goldmine Experience, Thames Price: No Charge Contact: Paul Bensemann Ph: 021 2142665 Email: story@actrix.co.nz | |||
| Sunday 6th August | 2pm | St. Georges Church Concert with Antony Peebles | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Acclaimed British pianist, Antony Peebles, is returning to Thames for an exclusive New Zealand performance to coincide with the 150th Anniversary of Thames Goldfields. Antony was educated at Westminster School and at Trinity College, Cambridge. After gaining his MusB, he studied piano with Peter Katin, receiving scholarships from various sources. He has now performed in 131 countries, the most recent being Rwanda, Armenia and Libya. Tickets available at the door. Visit www.thamesmusicgroup.com Venue: St Georges Church, Mackay Street, Thames Price: Adult $15.00; Music Group Member $13.00; Student $5.00 Contact: Thames Music Group Ph: 07.8690592 Email: thamesmusicgroup@yahoo.co.nz | |||
| Wednesday 9th August | 10am - 4pm | Business, Careers & Volunteer Expo | ||
| Celebrating 150 years of employment in Thames. Following a successful business and volunteer expo in 2016, CAN DO is holding another event which will incorporate a wider selection of businesses and volunteer groups. There will be invited guest speakers, business SME's, and corporate organisations and volunteer groups. See websites for registrations: www.candothames.org.nz and www.businessexpo@candothames.org.nz Venue: Thames War Memorial Civic Centre Price: Free Contact: Tom Webb Ph: 021 818798 Email: info@candothames.org.nz | ||||
| Saturday 12th August | 10:30pm | The Shotover Mine - William Cobley Reunion & Book Launch | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | The 12th of August marks the 150th Anniversary of the first gold strike in the Coromandel. Cobley, Hunt, White and Clarkson claimed a huge vertical vein of gold behind moss on a waterfall face. They called it the Shotover. Within three weeks two-thirds of Auckland left the city that was in the grips of the depression. Gold rush fever spread throughout the country and news reached overseas. People poured into the Coromandel to try their luck, which quickly led to the formation of Thames.
William Cobley's direct descendants are gathering on that date to celebrate the occasion. William's great great granddaughter, Angela Curtis, is an avid historian and genealogist who has been working for 11 years on a trilogy that includes Thames and William Cobley's story. A book on William's journey and the Shotover Mine is due to be released on 12th August 2017. Also, Book 1 of the NZ History trilogy -
"Ashmore - The True Story" is due to be released later this year.
"The Shotover" - 150 Year Souvenir Book Launch will be at Carson's Book Shop, Pollen Street, Thames on Saturday 12th August. Venue: Carson's Book Shop, Pollen Street, Thames Price: Tba Contact: Angela Curtis Ph: 027-277-8315 Email: info@kinandkingdoms.com | |||
| Friday 18th August | 6pm | Miners' Dinner at Bella Street Pumphouse | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Celebrating 150 years of gold mining in an authentic historic industrial building - the Bella Street Pumphouse. This building was established in 1898 to pump water out of the deep mines. Dress in miners clothing and enjoy a three-course dinner, with entertainment by Thames Tinkers and by Jennifer Neale. Period dress encouraged. Commemorative enamel mug included in ticket price. Cash Bar. Doors open at 6.00pm for dinner at 7.00pm. Tickets are limited. This event is on 18th and 19th August. Proceeds to the Pumphouse Poppethead.
The historic Pumphouse building is worthy of exploration on any other weekend between 10.00am and 3.00pm at a reasonable cost of $5.00. Venue: Bella Street Pumphouse, Thames Price: $50.00pp Tickets from Carsons Bookshop from noon Monday 24th June Contact: Colleen Hughes Ph: 07.8687499 or 027.5532493 Email: hughesc@slingshot.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 19th August | 6pm | Miners' Dinner at Bella Street Pumphouse | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | See 18th August for details Venue: Bella Street Pumphouse, Thames Price: $50.00pp Tickets from Carsons Bookshop from noon Monday 24th June Contact: Colleen Hughes Ph: 07.8687499 Email: hughesc@slingshot.co.nz | |||
| Sunday 20th August | 2pm | The Treasury Book Launch: True Tales of Thames | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Join the contributors to the latest "True Tales" historical book, this one featuring the Thames area. The book is published by The Coromandel Heritage Trust and contains 100 stories and poems. The true stories were collected from people with links to Thames, both early and recent. The Treasury is open from 11.00am to 3.00pm on Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Visit www.thetreasury.org.nz Venue: The Treasury, Queen Street, Thames Price: Koha Contact: Marise Morrison Ph: 07.8688827 (during Treasury hours) Email: info.thetreasury@gmail.com | |||
| Friday 25th August | 12pm | Lunchtime Concert at St. Georges | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Four-part Harmony Singing Group "Just Harmony" will be performing at 12.15pm.
Visit www.thamesmusicgroup.com Venue: St Georges Church, Mackay Street, Thames Price: Donation appreciated Contact: Thames Music Group Ph: 07.8690592 Email: thamesmusicgroup@yahoo.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 2nd September | 9pm | Read Bros. Hardware 150th Anniversary | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Come and celebrate our milestone of 150 years trading in Thames. During the morning we will have interactive displays in recognition of the history of the gold and timber history of Thames, a static display of classic cars and an old engine; More FM live music, BBQ, and a Coastguard boat on site. Venue: Read Bros. Hardware, 308 Pollen Street, Thames Price: N/a Contact: John, Stuart, Joce & Nicola Ph: 07.8686608 Email: Tba | |||
| Saturday 2nd September | to | Saturday 30th September | Thames Library Heritage Quiz | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Celebrate 150 years of Thames stories and put your historical knowledge to the test with this fun set of quiz questions based around Thames' history. Pick up a quiz sheet from Thames Library any time during September and return it complete with your answers by September 30th. You will go in the draw to win a copy of the new book True Tales of Thames and a guided tour of The Treasury research centre and archive in Thames (thanks to The Coromandel Heritage Trust for donating these great prizes). Venue: Pick up a quiz sheet from Thames Library Price: Free Contact: Nicole Thorburn Ph: 07 8686616 Email: nicole.thorburn@tcdc.govt.nz | |||
| Saturday 2nd September | to | Sunday 3rd September | 150 Clay Targets Weekend | |
| In conjunction with Read Bros. Hardware, Thames Clay Target Club are hosting two days of clay target shooting. Four grades - A,B,C, plus ungraded. 150 targets Compak Sporting each day. $5,000.00 in Prizes. Prizes given each day plus for overall weekend. sponsored by Read Bros.Hardware (Est. 1867). Ammo, refreshments and lunch available. Venue: Thames Clay Target Club Price: Entry Fee $85.00 per day (includes targets and levies) Contact: Jim Glenn or Andrew Welch Ph: 07.8689915(a/h) or 027.2850349 Email: jim@jgvaluers.co.nz | ||||
| Saturday 9th September | 12:30pm - 4:30pm | Thames Lions Club Health Expo | ||
| There will be stalls and sites to educate, as well as short talks and an opening speaker. Venue: Thames War Memorial Hall - Civic Centre Price: Free Contact: Christine Kemp Ph: 07.8267892 Email: mckg@slingshot.co.nz | ||||
| Saturday 16th September | 7pm - 9pm | Cafe Concert | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A Cafe Concert featuring Hamilton Salvation Army Band. Venue: Salvation Army Youth Hall, 713 Pollen Street, Thames. Price: N/A Contact: Captain Bruce Tong Ph: 07 868 6719 Email: Bruce_tong@nzf.salvationarmy.org | |||
| Sunday 17th September | 10:30am - 11:30am | 133rd Birthday Celebration service | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Thames Salvation Army Corps celebrates the founding of the Thames Corps with a service to mark the 133rd birthday in their first and only building which was opened in 1886. Special guests are Colonel's Wilfred and Margaret Arnold, retired leaders. Venue: 713 Pollen Street, Thames. Price: Offering. Contact: Captain Bruce Tong Ph: 07 868 6701 Email: Bruce_tong@nzf.salvationarmy.org | |||
| Friday 22nd September | to | Saturday 23rd September | 7pm | Thames South School Short Film Festival |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | The 12th Annual Film Festival will be held on 22nd and 23rd September to fundraise for Thames South Support Teams' initiatives. A selection of NZ short films with a mix of classic and freshly minted Kiwi talent will be shown for your entertainment and enjoyment. The same programme will run for both nights.
Tickets include one glass of complimentary wine/juice per person. Other refreshments available. Spot prizes, and a raffle. Limited door sales - "First In, First Served". R18 Venue: Thames South School Hall Price: Double $40.00; Single $25.00. (R18) Contact: Jeannie Apthorp Ph: 07.8686594 or 07.8686697 Email: office@thamessouth.school.nz | |||
| Friday 6th October | 10pm | Brits at The Beach | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | The Brits at The Beach days are centred in Whangamata, but on Friday 6th October the early resitration of classic Triumphs, Jags, Morris Minors, Rovers, and other British cars happens in Thames, on Pollen Street in Grahamstown between 10.00am and 3.00pm, before they all putter out west. Venue: Pollen Street, Grahamstown, Thames Price: N/a Contact: Karl Edmonds, Totally Thames Ph: 027.6979003 or 07.8686008 Email: gbd@thejunction.net.nz | |||
| Saturday 14th October | 10:30pm | Bella Street Pumphouse 75 Mile Poker Run | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Come one, come all. The 75-mile Poker Runs is for classic cars, hot rods, and motorbikes. Have a family day out, fill your car, bring the kids, neighbours & mates. $1,000.00 in cash prizes, plus spot prizes to give away. Register at The Kopu Station Hotel at 10.30am; Prize Giving at The Bella Street Pumphouse at 4.30pm. Hosted by the Thames Classic Car Club. Venue: Registration at Kopu Station Hotel 10.30am Price: $20.00 per poker hand Contact: Toni Wiseman Ph: 021.1429100 Email: wisemans@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Sunday 22nd October | 9am | Talk and Walk To "Eureka", Kuranui Valley | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Richard Ross was one of the early arrivals at the Thames Goldfield when it opened in 1867, and with partners he owned one of the early claims known as the "Eureka" at the top of the Kuranui Valley. The area became a small settlement, also known as 'Eureka', and it consisted of several dwellings, a school (Eureka), and a store. Dick Wilkins (a descendant of Richard Ross) and David Wilton will give a short presentation at The Treasury, commencing at 9.00am, followed by a field trip to the Eureka settlement and the Ross residence site. This trip will be approximately four hours long. The walk is uphill but no particularly steep, and is about one hour's duration each way. Moderate to low fitness is required. Own transport is required to get to and from the start of the track. Bring good walking shoes or boots, hat, sunscreen, parka or raincoat, food and drink as required (we may have lunch at the settlement). There will be explanatory notes and historical photographs available. Venue: Ross Family Miner's Cottage, Kuranui Valley, Thames Price: $5.00 pp. Contact: The Treasury, Thames Ph: 07.8688827 (during Treasury hours) Email: info.thetreasury@gmail.com | |||
| Friday 27th October | to | Saturday 28th October | Parawai School 50th Jubilee | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Parawai School will be open on Friday 27th October between 1.30pm and 3.00pm.
Visit www.Facebook.com/parawaischool50thjubilee Venue: Parawai School, 106 Lowe Avenue, Thames Price: N/A Contact: Annette Harrington Ph: 07.8688117 Email: administration@parawai.school.nz | |||
| Saturday 28th October | 10pm | Lions Club Historic Signs | ||
| Take a walk around the new additions to Thames Historic Signs. Meet at KMG Printers, Pollen Street, Thames at 10.00am. Booklet available for donation. Thanks to sponsors: Thames Lions Club, Enginetech, KMG Printers, and TCDC Thames Community Board. Venue: Thames Price: Free Contact: Michael & Christine Kemp Ph: 07.8267892 Email: z5898813@slingshot.co.nz | ||||
| Tuesday 31st October | 5pm - 7:30pm | Saints and Angels Evening | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A cordial invitation is extended to all children who are invited to come along dressed as they would have 150 years ago or as a Saint or Angel to enjoy a time of fun including Old Fashioned Games, Sausage Sizzle, Bouncy Castle, Story-time, Face Painting, Craft-making, Fancy Dress Parade and more.
Children please bring along parents, grandparents or care-giver to watch over you to enjoy celebrating the evening before All Saints Day. Venue: St James Church, Corner of Pollen and Pahau Streets, Thames Price: Free Contact: Lynne Wood Ph: 07 868 6123 Email: tup@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Friday 3rd November | to | Sunday 5th November | 10am | Catholic Parish of St. Francis - 150 Years of Catholic Faith |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Celebrating the Catholic faith community in Thames, New Zealand 1867-2017.
On Friday November 3rd we will focus on the school, starting with a school-led mass at 10.00am opened by Bishop Denis Browne, followed by lunch with the children, a tour of the school, viewing photographs from yesteryear, and finishing with a social evening that night.
On Saturday there will be period photographs and entertainment, finishing with our grand dinner at The Civic Centre.
On Sunday we will conclude the celebrations with our Reunion Mass led by Bishop Pat Dunn. Past and present parishioners, families, staff and students, and everyone connected to the Parish and School is most welcome. Check our Parish Facebook and web pages for details. Please let family and friends know about our 150th, our Sesquicentennary celebrations, so they may come to remember their school days and lives at St. Francis of Assisi, Thames, and to enjoy our historic town. Venue: St. Francis of Assisi Church and School, Willoughby Street, Thames Price: See Facebook page and Website: www.coromandelcatholic.org.nz Contact: Mike and Viv Lander Ph: 027.4798898 Email: 150stfrancis@gmail.com | |||
| Thursday 9th November | to | Saturday 11th November | 7:30pm | Old Time Music Hall |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Performed by Thames Music and Drama Inc. Light Supper and Cash Bar Venue: Tararu Cultural Centre, Thames Price: $20.00pp Contact: www.steampunkthethames.org Ph: Tba Email: johnmckeowen@hotmail.com | |||
| Thursday 9th November | to | Sunday 12th November | 5pm - 7:30pm | Inaugural Steampunk Art Exhibition |
| You are cordially invited to view a display of fine works by steampunk artists from near and far. Visit www.steampunkthethames.org Venue: Thames School of Mines, 101 Cochrane Street, Grahamstown, Thames Price: Gold coin entry Contact: Karen Woodhill Ph: Tba Email: karen_woodhill@xtra.co.nz | ||||
| Thursday 9th November | to | Sunday 12th November | 10am - 4pm | Steaming up in Thames |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Goldmine-Experience is bringing real steam back to Thames, firing up a renovated stationary steam engine during the Steampunk Festival. This engine is one of very few such operating engines in the country, and the only one set up to run a stamper battery. Restoration work started on this machine more than 30 years ago. The voluntary group's guided tours through 19th century tunnels and working gold mining machinery is open daily from 10.00am to 1.00pm until Christmas, then 10.00am to 4.00pm through the summer. Goldmine Experience is open 7 days - 10.00am to 4.00pm. Venue: Goldmine Experience, SH 25, North Thames Price: Adults $15.00, Children $5.00 Contact: Goldmine Experience Ph: 07.8688514 Email: Tba | |||
| Thursday 9th November | to | Sunday 12th November | Steampunk Festival | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | For four days in November Thames is going steampunk. It'll be a bit of sci-fi with a touch of Victoriana, many closets-full of fanciful outfits, and a great dollop of invention, all shaken up into a glorious cocktail of creativity. It's about imagination and reimagining....today's technology powered by steam.
During the festival there's Steampunk art, music, dancing, singing, fashion, and photography. There's Steampunk food and drink. There's loud Steampunk stuff and quiet stuff. Stuff for the kids and even for your pets.
We promise there'll be a heck of a lot of interesting things to look at. Check out the full programme at www.steampunkthethames.org Venue: Thames Price: See each event listing Contact: John McKeown Ph: 021.0635483 Email: johnmckeowen@hotmail.com | |||
| Friday 10th November | 12pm | The Alchemy of 'Golden' Cheese | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Cheese making has been around for 150 years or more. Join our cheese-making presentation with Dairy Maid 'Tinka Mozzarellia' to turn fresh farm milk into solid gold. A two-hour session of hand-stretched mozzarella and tasting. Limited tickets which include your very own book of home cheese-making "Cutting The Curd", penned by Dairy Maid Tinka herself. Cheesy prize awarded for best dressed Steampunker. To be held at the famous Carson's Book Shop by permission of the proprietor, Gregorius. Purchase tickets at www.steampunkthethames.org Venue: Carson's Book Shop, 600 Pollen Street, Thames Price: $35.00pp (Includes a cheese-making book) Contact: Katherine Mowbray Ph: 027.6041800 Email: katherinemowbray@orcon.net.nz | |||
| Friday 10th November | 1:30pm | Movie 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A special screening of the 1954 film version of Jules Verne's classic tale set in 1866, starring Kirk Douglas and James Mason. Part of the Thames Steampunk Festival which runs from 9th to 12th November. Venue: Embassy Theatre, Thames Price: $20.00pp Contact: Steampunk website Ph: N/a Email: N/a | |||
| Saturday 11th November | 12:30pm | Lotsa's Funtastic Steampunk Strut | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | This will be a Fun Fashion Show - "Your Moment to Shine"!! Participant Registrations taken at the "Meet & Greet" before the Show. Contestants & Audience Entry by gold coin donation for the RSA. Novelty Prizes Awarded, for Fun. Venue: Thames Workingman's Club, Cnr Pollen & Cochrane Streets, Thames Price: Gold coin donation Contact: Steampunk Website www.steampunkthethames.org Ph: 021.0635483 Email: johnmckeowen@hotmail.com | |||
| Saturday 11th November | 'Golden Gears' - A Burlesque Gaslight Fantasy | |||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Come and enjoy two hours of "titillating Talent" showcased for your pleasure. Two shows: Early Show starts 6.30pm and Late Show starts 9.30pm Venue: Grahamstown Bar & Diner, 700 Pollen Street, Thames Price: $40.00 pp : Tickets available at GBD Contact: Karl Edmonds Ph: Tba Email: gbd@thejunction.net.nz | |||
| Saturday 11th November | 'Gold Ball' - A Victoriana Affair | |||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Dress up in your finest and join the fun of the 'Affair'. Great band, awesome entertainers, delectable food, and gorgeous company!! What could be better?? Venue: Bella Street Pumphouse, Thames Price: $50.00pp Tickets from Carsons Bookshop Contact: Karl Edmonds Ph: Tba Email: gbd@thejunction.net.nz | |||
| Saturday 11th November | 3pm - 7pm | Steampunk Carnival | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Come one, Come all - to the greatest show on earth! Free carnival rides; try your hand at old time Victorian games, check out the wandering artists and fun entertainment for young and old, as well as great food stalls. Venue: Danby Field, Thames Price: Free Family Event Contact: Steampunk website Ph: N/a Email: www.steampunkthethames.org | |||
| Saturday 11th November | 3pm - 4:30pm | Harp and Storytelling Recital in Gold Miner's Cottage | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | An invitation to tea and a delicate tasty morsel, served by delightful maid Miss Aliesha. Be enchanted by Celtic Harp in a Victorian Miner's Cottage, home of the Viscountess Katinka, and a short stroll from the Steampunk Parade. Be glamorous in your Steampunk attire. Exclusive tickets can be purchased at www.steampunkthethames.org Venue: Miner's Cottage, 809 Pollen Street, Thames Price: $35.00pp (Includes a gift Celtic Harp CD) Contact: Katherine Mowbray Ph: 027.6041800 Email: katherinemowbray@orcon.net.nz | |||
| Saturday 11th November | 10am - 1pm | Gemboree Gem Rock & Mineral Show | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | The Tauranga Gem and Mineral Club will be showcasing rare, precious and beautiful rocks, minerals and gems, some will be for sale. This will be held in The Battery Room and courtyard between the Rock Shop and the Old Sunday School Building. You will also be able to try your hand at gold panning ($10.00). Venue: Thames School of Mines, 101 Cochrane Street, Grahamstown, Thames Price: $10.00pp Contact: John Isdale Ph: 07.8686227 Email: tsm@heritage.org.nz | |||
| Saturday 18th November | to | Saturday 25th November | Celebrating Marriage 150 Years Ago | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Thames is celebrating Marriage with 150 Years of Weddings in St. James' Church. If you have ideas and would like to help, please contact us. Lynne is looking for bridal clothing going back through the ages, photographs, vintage cars, horse & cart or wagon, and names of persons that have married in St. James'Church. Venue: Thames Union Parish, Pahau Street, Thames Price: Tba Contact: Lynne Wood Ph: 07.8687750 Email: Tba | |||
| Saturday 18th November | to | Sunday 19th November | St. Georges' Choral | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | In 1871 Auckland Choral performed Handel's Messiah in the nearly completed St. Georges' Church as a fundraiser. The concerts performed this year will mark that first Thames performance by using the same venue. Choristers from thoroughout the Thames-Hauraki-Bay of Plenty areas will make up the chorus of more than 60 singers, with soloists from Tauranga, Hawkes Bay, Auckland and Rotorua. Anita Banbury will be conducting the orchestra with organ accompaniment. Saturday performance starts at 7.00pm, and Sunday's at 2.00pm. Venue: St. Georges' Anglican Church, 600 Mackay Street, Thames Price: $20.00pp Contact: Karen Ruddock Ph: 07.8686489 Email: karen.m.ruddock@gmail.com | |||
| Tuesday 5th December | 9pm - 3pm | International Volunteers Day | ||
| Whether you are wanting to become a volunteer or would like to engage the services of a volunteer, come along to the Civic Centre and join other volunteers for morning tea at 10.00am Venue: Thames Civic Centre, Mary Street, Thames Price: N/a Contact: Brian Robson Ph: Tba Email: Tba | ||||
| Saturday 23rd December | Totally Thames Santa Parade | |||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | 150 Year Dress-up: The theme this year is 150 Years in Thames OR Gold. Schools and businesses all welcome. DATE TO BE CONFIRMED Venue: Pollen Street, Thames Contact: Karl Edmonds, Totally Thames Ph: 027.6979003 or 07.8686008 Email: gbd@thejunction.net.nz | |||
| Monday 25th December | 11:30am - 1:30pm | A Place at The Table - St. James' Union Church | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | This is a FREE Christmas lunch for the citizens and visitors in Thames on Christmas Day. You will be entertained with live music, and a visit by Santa will be the highlight of the lunch. You are personally welcomed at the door and escorted to a seat at the Christmas themed table. A pre-lunch non-alcoholic punch will be brought to you, followed by a hot meal served directly to the table, with a beautiful dessert to finish off the meal. A small bag of shortbread will be given out as you leave the venue.
Everyone is welcome, no matter your circumstances - this is a community Christmas luncheon like no other! Venue: St. James' Church Hall, Pahau Street, Thames Price: Free Contact: Adrian Catran Ph: 07.8686003 Email: adrian@twentymans.co.nz | |||
| Thursday 4th January | Thames Jockey Club 150 Years | |||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Celebrating 150 years of Gallops in Thames - races began here on 3rd January 1868 Venue: Parawai Racecourse, Parawai, Thames Price: $10.00pp Contact: Jim McConnell Ph: 07.8687527 or 0274.605826 Email: ejamc1@gmail.com | |||
| Tuesday 9th January | 9pm - 3pm | Thames Goldrush Market | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | Enjoy a day in Pollen Street with loads of stalls from local businesses as well as visitors. There will be kids' amusements, buskers, and great food - something for everyone. If you are interested in having a stall please contact Thames Rotary. Venue: Pollen Street, Thames Price: Free to attend Contact: John Uffindell Ph: 07 8689535 Email: thamesrotary@hotmail.co.nz | |||
| Sunday 25th February | 4pm - 6pm | Church at The Park | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | BYO picnic and seating to enjoy a summer evening under the trees in Victoria Park. Free sausage sizzle, live music, bouncy castle, heritage games. Venue: Victoria Park Price: Free Family Event Contact: Alison McIntosh Ph: 07 868 3900 Email: mcgaval@slingshot.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 3rd March | Trillian Trek Concert for Charity | |||
| Formerly Variety Bash - Trillian Trek Concert proceeds will go to Police Blue Light. Venue: Thames War Memorial Civic Centre Price: Tba Contact: Murray O'Donnell Ph: 09.2326624 Email: murray@trekevents.co.nz | ||||
| Friday 16th March | to | Sunday 18th March | Thames Heritage Festival | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | A celebration of our unique heritage. Events in the Festival will be posted on this website on the Heritage Festival page as they are confirmed Venue: Grahamstown, Thames Price: N/a Contact: Margaret Cropp Ph: N/a Email: croppys@yahoo.co.nz | |||
| Friday 16th March | to | Sunday 18th March | The Treasury Talks | |
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | "The Way We Were" lunchtime presentations. Dates and times to be confirmed. Venue: The Treasury, Queen Street, Thames Price: Tba Contact: The Treasury Ph: Tba Email: info.thetreasury@gmail.com | |||
| Friday 16th March | 7:30pm | Irish Ceilidh | ||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | An Irish Jig at St. James' Church. Sean Kelly and his authentic Irish band and friends present the second annual St. Patricks Ceilidh following on from the very successful inaugural Ceilidh in March 2017. Be in early and get your tickets in advance from Lotus Realm, Thames. Venue: St. James' Church Hall Price: Adult $20.00; CSC Holders $10.00; Children Free Contact: Sean Kelly Ph: 027 2520806 (texts only) Email: kellyboy@xtra.co.nz | |||
| Saturday 17th March | Bizarre Beard & Moustache Competition | |||
 CLICK TO ENLARGE | STOP SHAVING NOW. Get ready for the 2018 competition and start working your magic scissors and combs on that facial hair. Judging will take place in Grahamstown and the time will be advised closer to the day. Venue: Grahamstown, Thames Price: Cold coin Contact: Margaret Cropp Ph: 07.8681024 Email: croppys@yahoo.co.nz | |||
© Thames Heritage Event Trust 2016 |