Publication: ph18042012

Petone Historical Society has a new president, with Nik Zangouropoulos elected to the position at thexsociety’s recent annual general meeting.

Mr Zangouropoulos, a business consultant, succeeds Vera Ellen who stood down after 29 years as president. Ms Ellen was recognised for her long service to the society by being named its first ever life member.

Mr Zangouropoulos was brought up in Petone and attended Petone Central School.

His involvement with the historical society started three years ago. “I was at a reunion of my old school when Roy Hewson, a former principal, got me involved. At the time I was living in Khandallah. I said I was happy to help in any way.”

In taking over the top position, Mr Zangouropoulos says his main goal is to increase the organisation’s profile. “We’re all about fostering interest in the history of Petone. By looking to the past we encourage interest in the future.”

He says the society’s’ membership is mostly from the older age bracket. “I’m keen to broaden our membership base. But I think we do an amazing amount of stuff for a small group.”

The society meets monthly with guest speakers on historical topics and has regular sessions with other historical societies.

“We’re looking at doing a diary of Petone which we’ll publish early next year. It’s based a similar diary for Russell that’s proved very successful.”

During Heritage Month in September the society intends publishing a book of memories of 20th century Petone, while later this year society member Warwick Johnston will publish his history of the Gear Meat Company.

Longer term, Mr Zangouropoulos says the society is looking a commemorating the 120th anniversary of the 1893 rugby match between New Zealand and Wellington played in Petone, while 2015 is the 100th anniversary of Gallipoli landings.

If you are interested in the Petone Historical Society or would like to know more, call Mr Zangouropoulos on 5894413 or 0274504812 or e-mail nzang@xtra.co.nz