Paihia, the area where it all began. From the Treaty of Waitangi, to James Busby, to the United tribes flag, to Pompallier House and three preserved battle grounds, all and more were available to the Year 13 History Students on their History trip.
As part of studying New Zealand History, we were grateful that such a trip was organised for us. We arrived at the SaltWater Lodge late on Wednesday and prepared for the day to come.
Thursday was a busy day for us, leaving the lodge at 9:00am to arrive at the Treaty grounds. We were warmly received on the grounds and had the chance to look at one of the largest Waka ‘ngatokimatawhaorua’, which the Tribe Ngapuhi arrived on. This was very special as Maia Speechlay had descended from this tribe, so her heritage was a very big part of our cherished NZ history.
Then we were taken to the very spot where the significant Treaty was signed. It was special to experience firsthand the atmosphere and surroundings where the Treaty of Waitangi took place, centred between the Marae and James Busby’s house (first British settler).
The Treaty is symbolic of peace and unity which is what our nation is founded upon. We also had a guided tour through the museum where a detailed history of how the Treaty came about and the influencing factors which established New Zealand was presented.
After stopping for Lunch, we caught the ferry to Russell where we had another guided tour around the town. Although small, it is rich in our history and it is where the tensions significantly rose between Maori and Pakeha settlers. The church served as a reminder of the tension as bullet holes from muskets can still be seen around the outside of the building.
We made our way back to the lodge before setting out for dinner. Paihia is a beautiful town and the restaurants certainly were not a disappointment. Thanks to Mrs Stevens and Mrs Stickland, we had a games and bonding evening which undoubtedly challenged us competitively!
Friday was unfortunately our last day and after a big breakfast we set out to visit Pompallier House. This was very special for us as it is the boat Pompallier arrived on from which our school has taken its name, “Sancta Maria.” We were taken inside the printing house where we saw first hand how small books of Psalms, Scriptures and prayers were created. They were printed in Maori so that Maori could read for themselves the beautiful writings.
After this we began our way back home stopping at three notorious battle sights, the battle of Puketutu, the battle of Õhaeawai and the battle of Ruapekapeka. These battle sights, although deserted, left us with a lasting impression of the courage shown on both sides as well as the loyalty the men had to their monarch, and their tribe.
This History trip was an unforgettable experience for all of us. And definitely one of the highlights of our last year at school. Special thanks to Mr David Arrowsmith for organising the trip, together with Mrs Amber Stevens, Mrs Louise Stickland and Mr Eli Imbrogno.
Gemma Deftereos
