Settlers' Dance Transports 200 to Katikati's 1875 Roots

More than 200 people stepped back in time at Katikati's Settlers' Dance last Saturday evening, donning period costumes complete with furs, gloves, fine gowns and tailored suits to mark 150 years since the Ulster Irish arrived in the district. Security for the event was provided by Katikati J Troop Legion of Frontiersmen, with organiser Val Baker noting 178 tickets were sold at the door plus around 50 volunteers and entertainers on the night.

The music was supplied by Brett Lowe — known locally as 'Katikati's 1920s man' — and his 12-piece band, who played through the decades from 1875 all the way to the 1950s. Katikati Theatre's Julie Thomas performed a skit as early settler Grace Fletcher, delivering a comedic turn around a dubiously acquired piano — modelled on the actual instrument Fletcher brought with her from Ireland in 1875 to provide music for the fledgling settlement.

High-energy performances from Tauranga-based Irish dance school Scoil Rince Ni Ghabhann kept the crowd entertained, while Brett and Sally Lowe brought a black-and-white silent film to life with live sound effects. MC John Kean announced prize-winners on the night: Mike and Chris Johnson took best-dressed couple, Carol Clothier won best-dressed lady, 15-year-old Tristan Warnock claimed best-dressed gentleman, and sisters Isla Cave (10) and Eden Cave (8) won best-dressed children. Head organisers Terelle Carroll and Di Logan of the Katikati 150th Anniversary Committee were warmly acknowledged for the many hours they put into making the evening a success — and rumour has it a similar event could be held again before long.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).