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Rush Munro’s celebrated 90 years with thousands pouring through the gates of the Garden Parlour in Hastings, yesterday.
Owner John Bostock spoke to the crowds about the successful Hawke’s Bay icon.
“It’s fantastic to see everyone out to celebrate and share their memories of Rush Munro’s – 90 years on we are still using the same recipes and natural ingredients, with real fruit sourced locally.”
Throughout its history Rush Munro’s has always been privately owned with family members of John Coulton and Frederick Charles Rush Munro among the guests.
Rush Munro’s granddaughter Judith McMillan said it was wonderful to see everyone out enjoying the gardens.
“How amazing to see so many people still loving the ice cream and the parlour that my grandfather started with 10 pound in his pocket, 90 years ago.
“What a wonderful day it was with families turning out to eat, laugh and be merry, I am so happy I got to be part of the special celebration.”
Long queues down the street all day showed the iconic gardens were still a favourite among locals.
There was cake to share, The Hits hosts Martin and Sarah gave out spot prizes, and there was a surprise visit from Santa Claus
Staff dressed up in old fashioned outfits and Rush Munro’s general manager Tom O’Sullivan said they scooped more than 2500 ice creams during the day.
“It was a really good vibe among the team yesterday, they all did a fantastic job and were still buzzing at the end of it.
“The celebrations went really well and it was good to see so many Hawke’s Bay locals join the fun and take a trip down memory lane. It was also fantastic to see the families of the previous owners travel from far and wide for the significant milestone.”