Historic Hawke's Bay: WW1 soldiers in Havelock North
This photo of soldiers standing where the Havelock North village roundabout is now, was likely taken circa 1915/16.
The Transformer House, which must have just opened (now Village Information Centre) can be seen in the background.
Like other parts of New Zealand, many young Havelock North men rushed to enlist to fight, and when the reality of the war, and casualties became known this later slowed to a trickle.
Overall 38 Havelock North men lost their lives in the Great War, and with a population of around 500, this represented a huge loss for the small community.
Selwyn Road is named for Selwyn Chambers, and Nigel Street for Nigel McLean, both killed serving their country in Gallipoli.
It is not known who the men in the photo are. If you do think you know anyone, could you please contact Michael Fowler on info@michaelfowler.co.nz or on 027 4521 056.
Michael is also starting a database of people who may like to contribute to a commemorative publication to be released in 2014 on the lives of those who served at home and abroad during World War I in Hawke's Bay. Please contact him if you have any information that may be useful.
