The visit by the Newcastle Choir was highly successful with a full house (more than they got in Auckland). For a few hours we were encompassed by working class culture and values. The choir ‘loved Blackball and there was talk of the local choir, Waiata Koha visiting Newcastle some day. Of special pleasure was the opening mihi and poroporoaki by tangatawhenua.

Newcastle choir members have breakfast at formerly The Blackball Hilton.