October 2, 1969.

Until about 1910, Mount Maunganui was a sandy peninsula with a sprinkling of holiday cottages. Then railway workshops were opened, which attracted a larger permanent population and led to the construction of the first commercial wharf.

Before World War I, the Mount Maunganui area constituted little more than a deserted sandy peninsula. However, after the war, scattered settlements began to appear with the development of Mount Maunganui as a little-known holiday resort.

The fame of the area as a holiday resort spread, and the population continued to increase until Mount Maunganui became a dependent town district of the Tauranga County in 1927.

Ten years later, it was proclaimed an independent town district.

Borough status followed in 1945, with a Mr McDonald elected the first mayor. The popularity of the Mount as a beach resort grew rapidly.

These photos were sent in by Graham Ebbett:

Gallery

How the Mount became famous

For more articles from this region, go to BAY OF PLENTY TIMES