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CLUB HISTORY

A little bit of history

The whole Tahunanui reserve has a rich history, signalled by the plaque that adorns the original entrance on Tahunanui Drive. You can see the plaque on the old archway beside the tennis club.

The reserve was formed in 1921, after Nelson landowner Arthur Tosswill donated 1.42ha of flat land just in front of his house to be used as a recreation area for the people of Tahunanui – the Tosswill reserve.

Arthur Tosswill, benefactor

NOTE: Just click on any photo to enlarge it for detailed viewing

The bowls and tennis clubs were formed in 1921 and 1922 respectively, with the bowls club celebrating its centenary in 2021.

During World War II the Bowling club area was used for dispersal bays for war planes which would taxi up Parkers Road to the safety of the bays, which were dug by the military into the hill behind the bowling club. 

The bowling and croquet clubs continued to operate throughout the war, but the tennis courts were temporarily closed by the army.

View from the main road

 

Bowls Tahunanui Inc (Tahunanui Bowling club) was first incorporated on July 29 1940. A small group of enthusiasts worked on a voluntary basis to make the bowling green. In those days it was men only, but the women worked alongside the men and (as was usual in those times!) made teas and lunches.

 

The Tahunanui women’s bowling club followed, sharing the facilities. Many years later, driven by the proposed national/women Bowls New Zealand amalgamation, both clubs combined under the one administration.

Visitors and members, 1941

A second green was developed over the years. This was converted to a synthetic surface in 1999, enabling lawn bowling to be played year-round.  It was resurfaced in 2010.

The turf green was resurfaced in June-July 2024, being ready for lawn bowling in the coming Summer Season.

The photos show part of the rich history of our club!  

First kitty/jack, first bowl

There is further history on the walls in the club rooms. Do take a look sometime! 

And the club today:
ENJOYING A TOURNAMENT
A FRIENDLY CASUAL ROLLUP
SPECTATORS ENJOY THE GAME TOO