History of Waimarino in print

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 2, Issue 29, 18 December 1984, Page 14

History of Waimarino in print

If you are looking for the ideal Christmas present, then the recently published book by Elizabeth Allen, 'In the Hills of the Waimarino' would be an ideal choice. Superbly written, this history of the Waimarino's early settlers, has such names as Bennett, Punch, Manson, Proude, Sandford, McCoubrie, Berry, Scarrow, McNie, Voelkerlings, Hammonds, all of whom still have descendants living in the region. In 1887, the Government of that time purchased 458,500 acres of Maori land in the Waimarino Block at a price of 2 shillings and 6 pence (about 25 cents) per acre. Two of the first settlers to make the treacherous journey into the wilds of the Waimarino were Mr Alex Bennett and Mr John Punch. The two — who had formed a partnership with the object of taking the first sawmill into the Waimarino area brought Punch's wife, Rose and her children, Pierce, Jack and Rose with them. If there is any criticism of the book, then it is the fact that in my opinion, there are not enough pictures used. The ones that have been published show how hard life was at the beginning of this century. In all other aspects, 'In the Hills of the Waimarino' can

only be termed as excellent. I'm sure that Elizabeth Allen has a best seller on her hands and I sincerely hope that the people of the Waimarino support her by

purchasing the book. Published by Wanganui Newspapers, 'In the Hills of the Waimarino' retails at $27.95.

Mary Anne

Gill