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Excerpts from the broadcast of the opening ceremony for the new Christchurch Town Hall.
Trumpet fanfare
"God Save the Queen" is sung.
Unidentified announcer introduces the ceremony broadcast.
Mayor of Christchurch Mr N.G. Pickering welcomes the Governor-General Sir Denis Blundell and speaks about the project.
Councillor Clutha Mackenzie speaks on behalf of the regional Canterbury local bodies who have contributed to the Town Hall.
Councillor H.G. Hay of the Town Hall Committee speaks. He notes it is the first town hall the city has had in over 100 years and reads from cables from well-known conductors, composers and musicians: John Hopkins, Sir William Walton and Yehudi Menuhin, commenting on their happiness at the new facility and remembering performances in the Civic Theatre and King Edward Barracks.
The Cathedral Choristers perform "The Echo Yodel" (Traditional)
Prime Minister Rt. Hon. J. M. Marshall speaks and congratulates the people of Christchurch on the new building.
Excerpts from the broadcast of the Christchurch Town Hall opening ceremony.
Rt. Hon. Norman Kirk, Leader of the Opposition, speaks about the importance of the building for the people of Canterbury, calling it a historic milestone.
W.H. Hayes, Lord Mayor of Adelaide (Christchurch sister city) speaks. His city is currently also building a festival hall.
The Christchurch Liedertafel performs "Laugh and be Merry" (Vernon Griffiths)
Governor-General Sir Denis Blundell speaks, noting this is his first official function after arriving back in New Zealand four days ago to take up the role of Governor-General. He says he and his wife are still getting used to their new roles. He congratulates Councillor Hay on fulfilling the vision of his father (Sir James Hay).
The National song "God Defend New Zealand" is sung ending the broadcast.