Around 160 descendants and partners of those who arrived at New Plymouth on the Amelia Thompson, gathered at Te Henui Church Hall, New Plymouth on Saturday 22nd October to enjoy a weekend of friendship and fellowship. The sun shone, not a cellphone to be seen, and an abundance of well prepared food all contributed to the success of the event.

Co-ordinator Anne Francis was delighted with the turnout, with Saturday afternoon being the official opening. Adrienne Tatham, vice President of Taranaki Branch of New Zealand Founders gave an overview of Founders New Zealand and Founders Taranaki while President Graham Cowling gave an overview of membership and future directions. A group photo and a cutting of the cake wound up Saturday afternoon, in preparation to the evening dinner. Sunday morning a church service to commemorate the event 175 years ago the only official activity, allowing attendees to visit the numerous memorial sites around New Plymouth.

The privilege of cutting the cake went to both the event co-ordinators: Anne Francis (rear in photo) and Bronwyn Jenkins (foreground).