Thursday 18 October 2018

Wellington Heritage Week is back for its second year, once again showcasing the history of the city with events, tours, exhibitions, and sneak peeks behind the scenes of some hidden treasures.

We’re proud sponsors of the event, and a number of Council’s facilities and services will be featured over the week, including a tour of Council’s Archives, Wellington Heritage Trails will reveal just some of the capital’s history, and the public will be able to visit the historic Dominion Observatory in the Botanic Garden.

Mayor Justin Lester says the 2017 Heritage Week was hugely popular in its inaugural year, and he’s expecting the same results from the event this time around.

“Wellingtonians embrace their history as much as their future. Our history has built the foundations of this city, so it’s crucial to preserve, celebrate and respect it, as much as it is to learn from it,” says Mayor Lester.

“The waterfront is a great example of the benefits of preserving heritage. This vibrant and bustling space is a good demonstration of the city’s living history, which is full of character and a well-defined sense of place.”

There will be more than 30 events featured over Wellington Heritage week, many of which are free or koha. But bookings are necessary for many, with a few events already booked out.

Heritage Week celebrates the remarkable history we have in the city, but we can celebrate it all year round according to Council Heritage Manager, Mark Lindsay.

“Heritage is not just about buildings and locations, it’s also about culture and people. Wellington is a city that celebrates its heritage and recognises how changes over time – good and bad – have helped shape the vibrant city we have today.

“Although some of the events are already fully booked, much of what’s available this Heritage Week is also available most days of the year, like visits to the Nairn Street Colonial Cottage, Pukeahu National War Memorial Park, Truby King House gardens, and Council’s City Archives can organise tours too.”

There’s also a historic Thorndon Open Day, where the public can visit three historic residences in the neighbourhood, including the Council supported Randell Cottage and the Lilburn Residency, and the Rita Angus Residency is also open for viewing.

The Council Archives tours are fully booked. But there is an exhibition showcasing a sample of the collection which is open for all walk-ins. The full collection of over 650,000 documents, artworks, images and ephemera can be visited by contacting archives@wcc.govt.nz to book.

Visit https://wellingtonheritageweek.co.nz/ to see the full list of events.

ENDS

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