On Thursday morning, 14 March, our Year 11 history students embarked on a field trip to explore some of the North Shore’s most historically significant sites. The trip was planned to complement their curriculum on local history, included visits to The Pumphouse, Fort Takapuna, North Head, Mount Victoria, and the final resting place of the esteemed Patuone in the Devonport Cemetery.

The day kicked off at The Pumphouse, an iconic structure that played a crucial role in Auckland’s development by providing water to its burgeoning population on the North Shore.

Following this, the group visited Fort Takapuna, where they were transported back to the times when the fort stood as a guardian of Auckland’s coast. Exploring the barracks and gun emplacements, students learned about New Zealand’s military strategy and the global context of the wars it participated in.

The journey continued to North Head, a site that combines natural beauty with rich history. Walking through its tunnels and exploring its gun batteries, students discovered the strategic military importance of this site over centuries, from Maori fortifications to World War II defences.

Mount Victoria provided a panoramic view and a moment of reflection on how geography shapes history. Here, students discussed the significance of such landmarks in early Maori and colonial history, contemplating the interconnectedness of land and people.

The visit concluded at the Devonport Cemetery, at the grave of Patuone, a notable Maori chief known for his peacemaking roles between Maori and Europeans. This stop added a personal touch to the history lesson, allowing students to pay respects and reflect on the individuals who have shaped New Zealand’s history.

This educational trip was an opportunity for our students to gain a deeper appreciation of our nation’s history and the importance of preserving these stories for future generations.