A spectacular international exhibition was held in Christchurch 1906. This film shows scenes of the official opening on 1 November 1906 by the Governor, Lord Plunkett who is welcomed by the Prime Minister, Hon, Sir Joseph Ward, both accompanied by their wives.
'Outside the entrance there was a tremendous army of photographers and cinematographists, but they in no way disconcerted his Excellency.' West Coast Times, Nov 2, 1906, p.4
The film was advertised under a number of titles but most consistently as “Sights and Scenes at the New Zealand International Exhibition’ for West’s Pictures touring New Zealand with the Brescians” Otago Daily Times, February 7, 1907, p.1. Timaru Herald, March 14, 1907, p.1.
MS GV Dignitaries arriving near pillars of entrance gate.
GV Bands & soldiers of No. 1 and No. 2 Battalions North Canterbury Infantry file into the Exhibition Building - rear of entrance gate seen in background.
Soldiers marching being led by pipe band.
CU of Pipe band marching haltingly through entrance gate.
GV Various dignitaries in top hats walking past soldiers standing at attention.
Sir Joseph & Lady Ward.
GV Arrival of coach carrying Lord Plunkett and Lady Plunkett at 11.30am.
GV Handsome green-clad uniforms of No.2. Company North Canterbury Mounted Rifles escort to the Governor while officials welcome the Governor and Lady Plunkett.
Pan across dignitaries, including Wards (Lady Ward with bouquet).
Canterbury Highland Rifles form guard of honour. Departure of the Governor for the parade ground, T J West camera crew in background
Horses & coaches pass ornamental fountain at entrance to Exhibition Hall with camera crew in foreground.
Crowded stands at Hagley Park parade ground with Sir John Gorst, the Governor and Prime Minister and wives with official party welcomed and seated.
Naval brass band march past playing, with cannon.
Clowns with toy cannon.
Inspection of guard by Sir Joseph Ward- Presentation of the Colours and trooping of Colours.
Troops march past.
GV Helter Skelter, children sliding down helter skelter - queue of children backing up on slide of helterskelter. Officials with white hats & 'Wonderland' written on jersey.
GV The Toboggan at Wonderland - children riding sleds down slide - Officials in “Wonderland” jersey’s placing sleds on conveyor to top of slide.
GV Women and Children riding on Dragon Rail ride - excited children run alongside.
MS Little girls riding on camel ride being thrown about by movement of camel - small camel following behind
T J West with two small camels and not learning the lesson of never to appear with animals or children the great showman is upstaged. GV T. J. West standing with young camels and boys in cloth caps - camels being obstinate about standing still.