Manawahe Hall celebrated its 100-year centenary on Saturday, with around 80 people gathering to honour its long-standing place in the community.

Built in 1926 at a cost of £500, the hall has served as a hub for the district, hosting dances, political meetings, church services, and children’s events from its earliest days.

The centenary featured displays documenting the hall’s history. Speakers shared memories of growing up in the area and the hall’s role in community life.

Several long-standing families, whose ancestors helped establish the district, contributed stories reflecting the hall’s central place in Manawahe over generations.

Over the decades, the hall has hosted events including the Sheep Shaggers

Ball in 2008 (celebrating 100 years of sheep in Manawahe), school centenaries, potluck dinners, Zumba, weddings, and birthday parties. Recent investments from the Whakatāne District Council and Horizon Energy Trust have ensured the hall remains in regular community use.