1970's - Christchurch, Dunedin -1974, Balclutha - 1978
There were several major gatherings through the 1970s (a national reunion in Christchurch in 1970, where the attendance included seven cousins from Australia, and a South Island reunion in Dunedin in March 1974).
Then the Clan decided it should go "home" for its next big get-together - to South Otago.
In July 1978, the Aysons met again in number at Balclutha.
The meeting in the morning confirmed Fergus Ayson as Chief and suggested that a plaque be installed at the grave of Peter and Douglas at Warepa.
An outdoor event at Naish Park in the afternoon was followed by an evening function, a buffet meal and social, attended by 138 adults and 40 children.
Cousins were welcomed by Ian Gold.
The cake, made by Dorothy and Alan Gold, was imaginatively iced with a model of "Corydon", the old home at Warepa. The cutting of the cake was performed jointly by Mrs Elva Ayson, widow of Walter, the first Chief, and by Chief Fergus. Ian Gold piped in the haggis which was then addressed. Singing was led by Dulcie Buchan, and a family chart prepared by Margaret Gibson helped cousins identify their place in the family tree.
Next morning at the Warepa Church, the Rev J. Phillips led the service, and the Rev J. Ayson Clifford preached the sermon.
After the service family members went to the cemetery where a spray was placed on the grave of Peter and Douglas, and a wreath laid on Robert Ayson's grave on behalf of his daughters, Mabel and Nancy.
Acknowledgement:
The Ayson Story. Glenshee to Otago 1853 - 2000
Published Clan Ayson Of New Zealand Society