Plunket marks 90 years

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 685, 6 May 1997, Page 12

Plunket marks 90 years

An institution that has played a vital part in the lives of most New Zealanders across four gen erations is about to turn 90. The Plunket Society will mark its anniversary on 14 May with local celebrations, organised by Plunket volunteers and staff. In the Waimarino, the committee is organising a coffee afternoon — see classifieds for details. Also, Waimarino Plunket will give away six months' car seat hire to the parents of the first baby born on, or nearest to, Wednesday 14 May. Messages of congratulations include a letter from Lord Plunket, a descendant of Lady Plunket whose name was adopted by the society to mark her support. Robin Plunket, who was unable to attend celebrations due to prior arrangements writes: "(My wife) Jennifer and I feel very honoured that the Plunket Society has kept the

name for 90 years and that it has asked us to join in the celebrations." Meanwhile Plunket' s newly-elected National President, Merle Newlove, says the anniversary is an opportunity not only to celebrate the past, but to look ahead to a positive future. 'The society has established itself as an indispensable institution in support of families with young children. The fact that it continues to reach such an enormous number of families today with its vast range of services is testament to its ability to respond to the needs of the time. "Plunket has met enormous challenges over the years, particularly with the introduction of health reforms in the 1990s. It has adapted to the constraints and been innovative to ensure that New Zealand families continue to get the best possible well-child health service."