Walk 13 – Mana, Missionaries and Mayhem

The ultimate tour of Russell - significant landmarks and captivating stories! Finishing up enjoying a cold drink at the iconic Duke of Marlborough Hotel which has been refreshing rascals and reprobates since 1827.

Russell (Kororāreka as it was then known) was once the main trading port in Aotearoa, with the infamous reputation as the 'Hell Hole of the Pacific'. Home to American whalers and traders of all nations, it was a scene of 'uncivilised behaviour' described by Charles Darwin in his visit to New Zealand in 1835 as 'the land of cannibalism, murder and all atrocious crimes'. It is anything but that today as your guided walk of this enchanting seaside town will soon reveal. Indeed, alongside this picture of 'vice' ran the voice of 'virtue' as Missionaries sought to convert local Maori (and anyone else who would listen) to Christianity.

Includes an eye-opening walk around Russell, entry into and a tour of Pompallier Mission and Printery and a drink at the Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

Friday 10th October Assemble HQ: 1.00pm Conclude at the Duke at 5.30pm for a drink. Duration: 4 hours Distance: 4km Grade: Medium to Hard (a hike up Maiki Hill) Maximum walkers: 12 Category: Family friendly – Children 10 years plus Cost: Adult $30 - includes a guided walk, a refreshment at the Duke, and the tour of Pompallier Mission

IMPORTANT NOTES

1. Please check what is included and the time and length of your walk so you know what you need to bring in terms of food and water. It’s always a good idea to have a card or cash on you as you never know what you might encounter along the way.

2. The Russell Bowling Club is our Walking Weekend HQ, all walks start from there.

3. How the walks are graded

• We want to make sure everyone enjoys their walks. • Please match your level of fitness to your chosen walks to maximise your safety and enjoyment. • It can spoil the day for you and your group if you set out on a walk you have difficulty completing.

Grade 1 Easy Suitable for anyone. Tracks are of a good standard, mainly flat with a few gentle rises, well-formed and very easy walking

Grade 2 Medium Suitable for most people. Flat to hilly on well-formed tracks that are of a medium standard. Surfaces vary with some short steep grades

Grade 3 Medium to Hard Good fitness level required. Tracks are of variable but good quality including more demanding climbs and descents of moderate duration. Can have muddy/slippery stretches after rain

Grade 4 Hard High fitness level required. Tracks variable to rough, with longer distances and steeper sections than Grade 3. Can be muddy/slippery after heavy rain

Visit our website to see all the walks you can do.