Walk 13
Mana, Missionaries and Mayhem
Friday 11th October
Mana, Missionaries and Mayhem
Friday 11th October
The ultimate tour of Russell – significant landmarks and captivating stories! Finish up enjoying a cold drink at the iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel which has been refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827.
Russell (Kororāreka as it was then known) was once the main trading port in Aotearoa, with the infamous reputation as the ‘Hell Hole of the Pacific’. Home to American whalers and traders of all nations, it was a scene of ‘uncivilised behaviour’ described by Charles Darwin in his visit to New Zealand in 1835 as ‘the land of cannibalism, murder and all atrocious crimes’. It is anything but that today as your guided walk of this enchanting seaside town will soon reveal. Indeed, alongside this picture of ‘vice’ ran the voice of ‘virtue’ as Missionaries sought to convert local Māori (and anyone else who would listen) to Christianity.
Includes an eye-opening walk around Russell, entry into and a tour of Pompallier Mission and Printery and a drink at the Duke of Marlborough Hotel.
Friday 11th October
Assemble HQ: 10.00 am
Conclude at the Duke at 1.30pm pm for a drink.
Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 4km
Grade: Medium (a hike up Maiki Hill)
Maximum walkers: 12
Category: Family friendly – Children 10 years plus
Cost: Adult $30 - includes a guided walk, a refreshment at the Duke, and the tour of Pompallier Mission.
Notes:
1. Please check what is included and the time and length of your walk so you know what you need to bring in terms of food and water. It’s always a good idea to have a card or cash on you as you never know what you might encounter along the way.
2. The Russell Bowling Club is our Walking Weekend HQ, all walks start from there.
