Lindis Capper-Starr of the Kerikeri Mission Station and James Robinson compare a Mason and Cash mixing bowl from today with remnants of a similar mixing bowl from over a hundred years ago.

October 9

MEDIA RELEASE

Bowl remnants found in the mix

An archaeological excavation as part of earthworks associated with a new sprinkler system for Pompallier Mission has uncovered evidence of some delicious baking.

Remnants of a ceramic mixing bowl, understood to be manufactured in the 1800s by British ceramic firm Mason – the fore runner of today’s Mason and Cash – were discovered as part of the recent excavation that took place adjacent to Russell’s Pompallier Mission.

The historic property is cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.

“The excavation was carried out as part of the conditions of an archaeological authority which was granted for earthworks associated with the new sprinkler,” says Heritage New Zealand’s Northland Archaeologist, James Robinson.

“This area was identified as potentially having archaeological features present, and the authority process enabled it to be excavated carefully as part of earthworks for the sprinkler system. The bowl, bottles and other items were found in a rubbish dump that was part of the excavation area.”

“Dating and analysing the function of these items can provide us with good evidence of what was going on at this site many years ago.”

Because the property has been in continuous use, it is not completely clear what period the bowl dates from, though initial analysis suggests the bowl could date back to the 1800s. It’s likely that the bowl broke – perhaps while the owner was whipping up a batch of pikelets, or a similar delicacy – and the bits duly chucked into the rubbish heap.

The mixing bowls are not exactly rare – though they have a special connection to another historic property that Heritage New Zealand cares for according to James.

“Mason Cash and Co replaced the Mason brand in 1901, and Mason and Cash is still going strong. Mixing bowls almost identical to the one that was discarded in Russell all those years ago, are on sale at the Stone Store along with a range of other authentic trade goods from the 19^thCentury,” he says.

“There’s a nice continuity there.”

Manager of the Stone Store, Liz Bigwood, agrees.

“We love selling products with brands that have endured for years, and Mason and Cash is definitely one of those,” she says.

“Mason and Cash still make the classic cane-coloured mixing bowl, as well as new designs that are more contemporary and funky. The brand is still very much alive – even after over two centuries.”

Installation of Pompallier Mission’s sprinkler system is expected to be completed by summer.

December 4

MEDIA RELEASE

Christmas cheer at Pompallier Mission                                               

Christmas cheer will be coming to Russell once again this year at the annual Carols @ Pompallier concert at Pompallier Mission, the Heritage New Zealand property in Russell, Bay of Islands.

Every Christmas, Pompallier Mission and New Zealand’s oldest church, Russell’s Christ Church, come together to host community carols for locals and visitors alike. Local groups and soloists will perform traditional festive favourites as well as modern Christmas songs as part of the show, which takes place on Saturday December 23 at 6pm.

Concert-goers will also have the opportunity to sing along to some favourite Christmas Carols.

“Carols @ Pompallier is an annual fixture for the Russell community and is a great way for the community to re-connect and kick off the festive season,” says the Manager of Pompallier Mission, Scott Elliffe.

People are invited to bring a picnic, rug and good cheer.

“Pompallier Mission has the only public gardens in Russell, so it’s a great opportunity for families to enjoy a very pleasant evening of festive entertainment in this beautiful historic setting,” says Scott.

Admission to Carols @ Pompallier is free to everybody. (Alternative wet weather venue – Christ Church in Russell).

Media Contact: Scott Elliffe, Ph 09-403-9015

April 26

MEDIA RELEASE

Pompallier Mission coffee house open all winter

The news is all good for fans of the delicious espresso and stunning bay views of the Pompallier Mission Coffee House.

Winter fare on offer now at Pompallier Mission’s coffee house.

The French-themed eatery – which is part of the historic printery cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga – will remain operating throughout winter by popular demand.

The coffee house has become a favourite of Russell locals as well as visitors to the Bay of Islands, and will open between the hours of 11am and 3pm every day offering the perfect range of French-themed light lunches for winter.

“We’re delighted to be able to extend our service throughout winter, and look forward to providing such delicacies as French Onion soup and Leek and Potato soup, as well as savoury French tarts,” says the Manager of Pompallier Mission, Scott Elliffe.

“Other delicacies on the menu will include local oysters and sparkling mineral water, as well as our delicious espresso and selection of teas.”

The historic Pompallier Mission printery building will be fitted with a fire sprinkler system during winter and will be closed to the public while that work is being done (June through August). The coffee house, however, will remain open during this time.

The new winter hours will take place from Tuesday May 1. Due to the intimate space in the coffee house lunch bookings are recommended – Ph 09-403-9015.

Every Christmas, Pompallier Mission and New Zealand’s oldest church, Russell’s Christ Church, come together to host community carols for locals and visitors alike. Local groups and soloists will perform traditional festive favourites as well as modern Christmas songs as part of the show, which takes place on Thursday December 22 at 6pm.

People are invited to bring a picnic and a rug, join in or just kick back and enjoy.

“Pompallier Mission has the only public gardens in Russell, so it’s a great opportunity for families to enjoy a very pleasant evening of festive entertainment in this beautiful historic setting,” says Scott.

Admission to Carols @ Pompallier is free to everybody. (Alternative wet weather venue – Christ Church in Russell).

The Media Release is as follows: (more…)

Chelsea Neutroski and Shelley Arlidge with their award from the Russell Business Association for Best Business Frontage. (Image HNZ Media Release)

The gardens at Pompallier Mission – the historic property in Russell cared for by Heritage New Zealand – have received official recognition.

Pompallier Mission has won the Russell Business Association Best Commercial Garden Award for 2016.

The gardens are the result of hard work by gardeners Chelsea Neustroski and Shelley Arlidge.

“It’s really nice to have this acknowledgement – especially from the local community,” says Chelsea, who is Pompallier Mission’s Head Gardener.

“We work hard to keep the gardens as well presented as possible – especially for the large numbers of tourists who visit Russell.”

The media Release is as follows: (more…)

Scott Elliffe and Airini Kingi in front of Pompallier Mission in Russell. (Image Sourced HNZ Media Release)

Public rally behind Pompallier Mission restoration work

Restoration work on Pompallier Mission’s timber and plaster has been given the green light following a hugely successful donations campaign.

“Thanks to the hundreds of people who have sent in donations, I can now book in the contractors and get the work scheduled,” says Property Manager Scott Elliffe.

“This is a great outcome for heritage, culture and tourism in the Bay of Islands and especially for Pompallier Mission. This work will ensure it continues to be an attraction for locals and visitors, making their experiences here that much better while giving the local economy a boost.

“As comments on Trip Advisor and the general feedback we get from visitors show, we offer one of the best heritage tours in the country.”

The appeal for the Heritage New Zealand cared for property has raised over $60,000 to date, with restoration work expected to start following the busy summer period next year. (more…)