Paekākāriki History Walk launched

The recently launched Paekākāriki History Walk by the Station Precinct Trust adds new layers to our village’s telling of its local history. Bride Coe looks behind the scenes at the making of the walk, which will feature in the Directory of Everything, ‘Walks & rides’ section on paekākāriki.nz shortly.

The launch at Finns. Photo: Janet Holborow

Friday 19 November 2021 saw the launch of Paekākāriki’s very own History Walk developed by The Paekākāriki Station Precinct Trust – in other words the Station Museum History Group. The inspiration, and much of the development came from Dave Johnson who is the chair of the Trust. Others helped with the research, writing and web development.

An impressive illustrated map is positioned at the north end of the Paekākāriki Station platform, and another inside Finns restaurant. It lists the points of interest that have information boards on site. These boards hold some brief details about the site, and each has a unique QR code. Scan the code to get heaps more written and photographic information about that particular site. 

There are currently about 13 boards in place, with more to come as funds and energy allow. Some of the other places of interest in Paekākāriki are also listed on the map and these will likely get their own boards in the future. 

The Bowling Club. History Walk plaque to the left of the gate. Photo: Station Museum collection

This is a fantastic asset for Paekākāriki, weaving our past into our future. If you are unable to walk it, then get your fingers to take the walk here: https://xplorepaekakariki.org.nz/ .

Our village, our history, there at your fingertips.

Paekākāriki.nz is a community-built, funded and run website. All funds go to weekly running costs, with huge amounts of professional work donated behind the scenes.  If you can help financially, at a time when many supporting local businesses are hurting, we have launched a donation gateway.