HUTT CITY COUNCIL NEWS RELEASE

6 January 2015

Major milestone in Wellington’s history celebrated

Celebrations on Monday 19 January (Wellington Anniversary Day) will mark 175 years since the first British immigrants arrived at Pito-one’s (Petone) shores in large numbers. To commemorate, Hutt City Council has planned a fun, family day out that focuses on the significance of settlers arriving in the area.

Lower Hutt Mayor Ray Wallace, says that, “Many people don’t know why we celebrate Wellington Anniversary Day at this time – Petone is hugely significant in the development of our region as the landing place for the first New Zealand Company immigrant ships, the ‘Aurora’ and the ‘Cuba’ in January 1840.

“The Petone Settlers’ Museum is close to where New Zealand’s first organised immigrants came ashore on 22 January 1840, so it’s fitting that we’ll be celebrating near this spot”.

The Petone Esplanade will be transformed into an historic playground with free horse and cart rides, a history-themed archaeological dig, candle and spoke making, live entertainment, and history-themed games and activities for all ages.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a picnic lunch and soak up the smooth sounds of Wellington folk bands, Niko Ne Zna and Wellington Sea Shanty Society, from 12-3pm.

Public entertainment and activities will run on Monday 19 January from 12-4pm.

For more information visit summerinthehutt.co.nz

ENDS

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