Aotearoa Hostel Band

ROCKHAPPENZ Public Collection

The Aotearoa Hostel Band - competitors in 1965's Big Beat Dance Band Contest, held in Canterbury Court, Christchurch

A talented all-Maori band, popular at local social evenings, church functions and dances.
The line-up featured Dean Turner (Lead Guitar), Ben Ngahuru (Rhythm Guitar), Ivan Watene (Bass Guitar), Ron Apiti (Tenor Guitar), Eric Albert (Drums) and Phil King (Vocals)

Chants R&B were victorious in The Big Beat Dance Band Contest held in February 1965.  Peter, Paul and The Pursuers were runners-up, with Timaru's Beat Unlimited in third place, and another Timaru band The Kor-Tels in 4th place, out of the six finalists.