Discover the heartwarming tale of 'On a Saturday Night,' a poignant celebration of New Zealand's small-town spirit. Through 260 beautifully crafted pages, author Michele Frey invites readers on a journey across the landscape of local community halls that have stood the test of time from Whakapara to Mossburn. This paperback masterpiece delves into the rich tapestry of events that bring towns together — from wedding receptions and birthday parties to memorials and political gatherings. These venues have witnessed the essence of community life, each hall holding stories of laughter, sorrow, and resilience. Documented with stunning photography from John Maillard and John O'Malley, this book captures the vibrant culture and nostalgia of New Zealand’s local heritage. Perfect for those interested in New Zealand history, local culture, and the enduring legacy of small communities. Explore the fleeting moments and cherished memories that these halls represent as we reflect on a unique aspect of New Zealand that is rapidly fading from our collective memory. Order yours today and celebrate the stories of community resilience! We are happy to combine shipping, and being a NZ-owned business located in Auckland, we ensure your purchases avoid unexpected import charges, customs duties, or taxes.

CONDITION: Brand New

Pages: 260
Bind: paperback
Author: Michele Frey Publisher: Canterbury University Press
Publication Date: 01-11-2012

On a Saturday Night is a warm and colourful celebration of the strength and spirit of small towns all around New Zealand. From Whakapara in the north to Mossburn in the South, community halls have been the focal point of small towns for as long as the towns have been on the map. These halls have hosted school classrooms, general elections, stag parties, birthday parties, film screenings, Rabbiters’ Balls, flag euchre evenings, farewells and welcome-home parties for servicemen from both world wars, memorial events for those who did not return, farm auctions, clearing sales, weddings, Christmas parties, Civil Defence teams, mayoral celebrations, church services … Some halls have been demolished and rebuilt over the decades, others have been lovingly restored several times and are still going strong. Some halls have been transported on the backs of trucks to new locations as towns have grown and changed. Fires and floods have taken their toll in more than a few cases. Michele Frey and Sara Newman visited these halls with photographers John Maillard (North Island) and John O’Malley (South Island) to talk to the locals and try to capture the essence of what each hall has meant – and means – to its community. In these stories and pictures they have recorded an aspect of New Zealand’s unique culture that seems to be passing into history.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.