Norma Adalena Chapman
-nee Henderson. 5th Jan 1923 – 25th July 2013
Norma grew up in an academic family in Wellington. After graduating from Teacher’s Training College she was posted to Martinborough. “Where is Martinborough?” she wondered, so dad got out a map to find the town which was to be her new home. Norma was twenty one when she began teaching at Martinborough Primary School in the third in of 1945.
In 1948 she married Colin Chapman, resigning at the end of the year and then returning as relief teacher. In 1954 she returned to full time and appointed to the senior women’s position, which she held until her retirement. Her career at Martinborough School spanned thirty four years. From blotched ink and pen nibs to calculators and computers. Her largest class was fifty eight pupils. Her lengthy service is a testament to the enjoyment she gained from her chosen vocation.
Norma served two terms on the Martinborough Borough Council. She was involved in the founding of the Martinborough Museum and renovations of the Town Hall. She was an active member of the Little Theatre, coached basketball, was a Senior Ladies Brigade member, loved the coast and enjoyed whitebaiting.
In 1999 Norma moved with Graeme and Sue to Australia, on the Gold Coast for the next ten years. In 2009 the family moved back to New Zealand. After breaking her hip in a fall, Norma made the choice to go to Wharekaka and was so happy there during her time there where she met so many friends and other residents. She had her first birthday party there aged eighty eight , a roller coaster ride and everybody clapped. In January this year Norma celebrated her ninetieth birthday at Wharekaka.
A vibrant personality who loved being part of our community.
– Mate and Elizabeth Higginson (former pupils)
