A few weeks ago, I was reading about an old Christchurch murder case (1871) where the author mentioned something quite odd about the burial of the victim. Being a highly superstitious lot, about 150 years ago, a tradition kicked in when burying a victim of murder. They were not to be buried with those who …
Edmund arrived in New Zealand in 1841 as a member of the Management Committee of the Canterbury Association as well as Commissioner of Native Reserves. He was to protect the rights of the Maori during the development of the new colony. He took his new duty with great seriousness, studying and reporting on the way …
Two hard working dogs earning a living or have accompanied their masters, to the Addington Saleyards for Sale Day in 1905. *Image courtesy of Rural Livestock Ltd, Canterbury* —
On the 30th December 1850, surveyor Charles O. Torlesse chained and pegged the first road to the Canterbury Plains – from this point at Church Corner, Upper Riccarton – opposite Countdown. Named Harewood Road, it was from this road that sections began to be sold to the settlers. The term Yaldhurst began to be used …
As James Edward Fitzgerald sat in his over-sized dogcart while it was being transported across the Heathcote River by punt – he was feeling quite exhausted with Christchurch. He was fast approaching the end of his term as Superintendant and his health and temper would improve much due to that very fact. Beside and behind …
If you are anything like me, Maori names can get my head spinning and I lose the direction of the story big time!!! So, hopefully this will help – the key names Ngai Tahu – South Island tribe Ngati Toa – North Island tribe Ngati Mamoe – Pre Ngai Tahu South Island tribe Tu Rakautohi …
The Canterbury Club Gas Light – up to a few moments ago I thought it had been the first one ever but no ;-/ The first kerosene public light was erected in Market Square (Victoria Square) in 1862. The following year the Christchurch Gas Company opened and by 1876, 152 gas street lights flickered around …
William Guise Brittan arrived in Christchurch on the Sir George Seymour, one of the first four ships. William’s main occupation before his journey was as a surgeon, serving as the doctor on board the Sir George Seymour! But once in Christchurch, he never practised medicine again. He became the Commissioner of Crown Land and was …
A great photo! Colombo Street with Dyers Pass Road weaving its way up the Port Hills. Sadly the building tucked in behind the round roofed tram stop (I am guessing its a tram stop) was still with us up to this week (02.11.2012). Came as a nasty surprise to me as I drove past it.
Christchurch…you will always be a charming city…come what may xxx *Photo taken by Steffano Webb in 1916*
