Hear ye!
It’s time to announce the November 2023 Thumbs Up Award winner for an individual who has gone above and beyond for the community.
Congratulations to Michael Jones, the man behind the iconic kiwifruit costume, brown shorts, and fancy hat—our beloved Te Puke Town Crier.
It all started many years ago… Te Puke was getting ready for the festive season which kicks off with the Te Puke Christmas Float Parade. Michael was involved with the Promotion Committee during the 1980s and saw the need for some direction, a character to lead the parade and wanted to have a bit of fun.
His journey as the Town Crier began as a bit of a joke, a touch of humour injected into the parade. He donned borrowed clothing from Tauranga Repertory, borrowed a bell either from Fairhaven School or the Country Lodge and started a new tradition. The first costume he wore was a striking red jacket and black pants.
Behind every iconic character is a fabulous costume, and Michael’s ensemble, brought to life by Michelle Cliff and crafted meticulously in 2006, is nothing short of spectacular. Inspired by kiwifruit, this kiwifruit-themed Town Crier outfit boasts plush velvet capes, hand-beaded for that perfect seed effect, a suede-type long jacket, a kiwifruit print waistcoat, and stylish brown suede pantaloons. Susan Weld, the embroidery maestro, lent her expertise to embellish the scroll, making this costume a true showstopper. Michael even sourced his own bell and had it engraved, complete with a memorable spelling error for ‘Town Cryer’.
I made the costume in 2006 after seeing Mike be the Town Crier in a few pieces of costuming from the theatre. I thought that Te Puke deserved a full blown ‘Kiwifruit Themed’ Town Crier. I approached three local Op Shops for funding towards the purchase of fabric, 3 x $100. I created the cape from plush velvet, which I hand beaded for seed effect. The ensemble is a suede type long jacket, kiwifruit print waistcoat, and brown suede pantaloons. The hat was an adaptation of a purchased felt sun-hat and Mike had his own shoes that we adorned with buckles. The scroll was embroidered by Susan Weld, and expert craftswoman and wife of Graeme Weld, the Mayor. Michael has fulfilled the role of Town Crier admirably and he has proudly worn this costume for over 15 years. He has led the Float Parade, welcomed dignitaries and greeted visitors from Cruise ships along with having been present at many significant local events. I have been thrilled to see him wear this costume and I am proud to have been a part of the creation of a Te Puke Icon.Michelle Cliff
Little did Michael know that this playful jest would turn into a role of purpose and direction.
Michael’s journey as the Town Crier is peppered with unforgettable memories. From inaugurating a friend’s toilet to welcoming home the local culinary celebrities, Kasey and Karena Bird, after their victorious Masterchef 2014 win with a parade and celebration held in the library—Michael has truly been an integral part of Te Puke’s vibrant community tapestry, despite some kids thinking he is a pirate.
During all the fun and joy, this year’s parade held a particularly emotional significance for Michael. Determined to be part of the event despite health challenges and against doctor’s orders, he was determined to lead the parade. His wife, Anne, found a golf cart and drove him through the parade route—an unforgettable moment.
As this marks Michael’s final year at the helm of the parade and donning the Town Crier’s hat, he’s passing the bell and inviting an aspiring local character to take on this delightful role. Applications for the esteemed position of Town Crier are now open.
Michael’s legacy as the iconic Te Puke Town Crier will forever be etched in the town’s festive history. Join us in celebrating Michael’s incredible journey and wishing him the warmest of farewells.
And to those budding town criers out there, seize this fantastic opportunity! Please submit your applications through the web form below and step into the shoes (or should we say, the stylish kiwifruit-themed ensemble) of Te Puke’s next charismatic Town Crier!