The News: By Shannon Thomson The News – 28 October 2021

A classic Kiwi story marked a century on Sunday.

Hayes Homestead – a Heritage New Zealand-managed property at Oturehua turned 100 last Monday.

The homestead was built by Bernard and Stanley Hayes for their parents, Ernest and Hannah.

Mudbricks were made on-site in the years before World War 1, with concrete foundations poured and construction beginning once the brothers returned from active duty in 1919-20.

The original homestead featured the technical innovations the Hayes family were known for, including the first flush toilet in the Maniototo, a homemade shower, air ventilation in the kitchen, bathroom and laundry and a wetback coal range.

A system to pipe music and radio broadcasts throughout the house was also installed.

The homestead was restored by Heritage New Zealand – formerly the New Zealand Historic Places Trust – and officially opened in 2011.

Hayes Engineering and Homestead is part of the “Tohu Whenua – Landmarks that tell our stories” programme.

To celebrate the 100-year milestone, a private event was held with Hayes family descendants, members of the restoration team and Heritage New Zealand , with Covid-19 Level 2 guidelines in place.

After official speeches from Heritage New Zealand chief executive Andrew Coleman and chairwoman Marian Hobbs, three trees were planted followed by tours of the homestead, lawn games and a picnic lunch.

Heritage New Zealand property lead Hayes Engineering and Homestead Jess Armstrong said the homestead was a unique New Zealand story.

“It’s that sense of place. You can read about a place but when you can visit it, and see and experience it you gain a whole other understanding,” she said.

June Jones – granddaughter of Stanley Hayes – lived in the homestead when she was younger and had fond memories of growing up there.

She was one of more than 30 members of the Hayes family to attend the celebration.

“I think its a privilege to be here really,” she said.

“Its a great celebration that’s brought the families all together.”

Siblings Murray Hayes, June Jones and Andrew Hayes have fond memories of growing up in the homestead. PHOTO: SHANNON THOMSON