Memories

Thursday afternoon was dedicated to retracing old haunts. Where I am staying is in walking distance of Pukekura Park and I was soon there. The Lake and gardens were as lovely as ever, but I was disappointed to see the high safety railings on the red bridge; health and safety taken to the extreme. The outline of Mt Taranaki could be seen in the background 

It was lovely to hear the Tui singing as I made my way to the Fernery  with all its beautiful displays.

After some peaceful time in this tranquil place I made my way to the open space at the entrance to Pukekura Park. Now a cricket ground it forms a natural amphitheater on three sides, which have been terraced.  From the age of 11 I ran here. every Tuesday night in the summer. It was then The New Plymouth Amateur Athletics Club. At the beginning I literally ran barefoot on the grass. As a small child we all gathered here for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II in the summer of 1953-54. 

Next on my nostalgic tour was a visit to the now cathedral church of  Taranaki, St Mary’s. It is the oldest stone church in New Zealand. The foundation stone was laid by Bishop Selwyn in 1842. Sadly, at the moment it is closed due to the potential earthquake risk, following those in Christchurch and Kaikoura. A huge fundraising venture is underway to strengthen it to meet requirements among other ideas. The lovely colonial style vicarage, where I spent many Saturday mornings having piano lessons with the Vicar is right next door. It is in need of some TLC to bring it back to its former glory.

I was pleased to see that the iconic clock tower still stands and Devon Street looks unchanged. 

After purchasing flowers at Nicki Godwin’s, Barbara and Peter took me to the Awanui Cemetery where I laid them on my brother and father’s grave. The florist tied a black ribbon around the base and the yellow flowers represent the colours of the Taranaki Rugby Team, s sport that Rex excelled at and one my father coached. 

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