The Kawana flour mill was one of those provided by Governor George Grey, hence the name, "Kawana" (Maori for "Governor"), and was built in 1854. It closed down in 1913. In the 1930s the roofing iron was taken for use on the Matahiwi School.
When I first saw the mill, it was in a dismantled and derelect state. However, restoration started in 1978, with the construction of an exact replica of the original building. The mill machinery was installed in as nearly as possible to the original position.
The restored mill was opened on Saturday 20th September, 1980, by the Governor General, Sir Keith Holyoake.
A full account of the opening is given in The Wanganui Chronicle for 22nd September 1980.
I took the photos of the restored mill in February 2001, and the one of the derelict mill in January 1962.
 |
 |
||
| Mill in derelict state. | Millstone. |
Return to previous page