Radio broadcasts of the centennial re-enactment of the landing of the first four ships of European settlers at Lyttelton, in 1850.
Part 1. An unidentified reporter introduces the schedule for the day's events at Lyttelton Harbour. There is a re-enactment of the "Charlotte Jane's" arrival. The Canterbury Brass Band plays 'God Save the Queen', His Excellency the Governor General arrives in army uniform and is joined by the Mayor and Mayoress. An unidentified female reporter describes the movements and dress of the Rāpaki warriors who offer a friendly challenge to His Excellency, followed by the haka and pōwhiri by the Māori ladies.
Part 2. Unidentified female reporter (possibly Airini Grennell) describes the Maori action song. Unidentified male reporter describes events leading up to the formal address of welcome by his Worship the Mayor of Lyttelton, Mr. Briggs to His Excellency the Governor General and Mrs. Freyberg. The Governor's speech in reply includes an acknowledgement of the men and women lost in the war and Māori people's loyalty to the crown.
Part 3. An unidentified reporter describes the re-enactment of early settlers arriving from the first four ships. The history of the Charlotte Jane, the first ship to arrive with settlers at Canterbury is provided along with a description of the shore party.
Part 4. Recording of re-enactment of landing of settlers at Lyttelton. Unidentified reporter describes the authenticity of the settler clothes and ship redressing.
Part 5. Unidentified reporter describes the settler's clothes in all their authenticity as they descend The Randolf and The George Seymour, the second and third of four ships arriving at Lyttelton Harbour.
Part 6. The re-enactment includes an opening and closing address by Governor George Grey and speeches from Mr. James Fitzgerald, Edward Wakefield (Jnr) and farmer, Mr. Isaac Philpotts, on behalf of the pilgrims on The Randolf. Mr William Deans gives a welcome speech, speaking well of farming in the district, though stresses timber and water shortages. He states he and his brother John will always be available for advice at Riccarton. On behalf of The George Seymour, Reverend Henry Jacobs shares his educational aspirations and Mr. Dobson, an engineer, speaks eagerly about opportunities for surveying. Governor Grey concludes.
Part 7. Re-enactment speech from Captain Thomas who addresses the settlers in regards to the topic of surveying. The Governor of the Colony, Sir George Grey concludes the welcome address. Banquet, procession and ball are to follow today's proceedings.