History Mystery At Te Waimate – Throughout January

It is the year 1836 – and Te Waimate Mission desperately needs your help.

It’s been some time now since that nice Mr Charles Darwin visited, and made all those kind comments about the mission’s verdant veg, flourishing fruits and cracking good crops. But now comes the challenge, says Te Waimate Mission Property Lead Lindis Capper-Starr.

“We are inviting people of all ages who like exercising their imaginations to take part in the first-ever Te Waimate Mission History Mystery,” says Lindis.

“We’d like them to step back in time with us to 1836 and help us solve a few problems!”

The previous year turned out to be a very productive growing season, and now the mission is wanting to celebrate with a great Harvest Feast befitting such bounty. The problem is people haven’t quite thought the details through.

“We need willing hands who will be able to roll up their sleeves and help us out of a pickle,” she says.

Participants will be asked to find the tools that will mend the broken rope at the well; find out which dress fits which person in the house; decode a plum pudding recipe; figure out how long it will take the messenger to deliver invitations to all three nearby Pā sites– the list of eight fun challenges goes on.

“The key word here is ‘fun’ – our History Mystery is a great opportunity for locals or families visiting the Bay of Islands in January to enjoy a hands-on heritage experience like no other,” she says.

“It’s ideal for adult groups, couples and singles looking for a bit of fun; and of course children with help from their parents or other adults who might be game to take on the challenge. Take as much time as you like and have a picnic break in the beautiful gardens, or go up against the clock for extra excitement.”

Dates: Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday in January

Times: from 10am to 5.00pm daily. Last entry for the challenges is 3.30pm to allow time.

For more details about Te Waimate Mission’s History Mystery, follow the link to visitheritage.co.nz or email tewaimate@heritage.org.nz

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