"The death has occurred of Mr Henry John Haynes, of Third Avenue, Whangarei. A member of many local organisations since their inauguration and a keen worker on their behalf. He was born in Whangarei in 1884, being the second son of two pioneer settlers of the district, the late Mr and Mrs H. N. J. Haynes. Mr Haynes was educated in Auckland, Hamilton, Mercer and Whangarei. He was a foundation member of the Whangarei Rowing Club and won a number of trophies at various regattas. He was married to Miss Elizabeth Rose Martin in 1909.
He played a prominent part in the activities of the Whangarei Municipal Band of which he was drum major prior to World War I. He volunteered for service during the Great War and before he was stationed at Trentham he was drum major for the Northland Military Band.
He became regimental drum major of the 15th North Auckland Regiment. It was as drum major for the Whangarei and County Pipe Band that Mr Haynes became most renowned. He joined the band when it was first started, was first drum major and retained the position until ill-health precluded him from taking any further part in the position two years ago. Mr Haynes took a lively interest in scouting activities.
For many years he was a popular master of ceremonies at town and district dances, and also a judge of dancing competitions. He was associated with the Whangarei Swimming Club at its inception.
He was a member of the Oddfellows Lodge for many years, being a past officer.
In 1942 Mr Haynes joined the National Military Reserve. He was a sergeant at Northern stations before being transferred to Papakura where he was appointed security officer. He was forced to retire in 1944 because of ill-health.
In his youth Mr Haynes made several trips to Australia aboard sailing vessels. He was an authority on Maori customs and history, having gained his extensive knowledge while he was an instructor of Maori territorials during World War I. Mr Haynes is survived by his wife and four children—Mesdames R. J. Bullock (Kamo). A. F. Hansen (Whangarei) and G. Lynch (Rotorua), and Mr Keith Haynes(Whangarei). There are three grandchildren."
[Northern Advocate, 17 July 1947, Page 3]
