RONGOMARAEROA PEACE WALK

The Peace walk was established to honour the memory of Sir Peter Elworthy who died in 2004. It was established by his wife Fiona & their four children.

Junko Saito & Glennys Douglass of Forest & Landscape are still advisers on development of these 5 acres of land, growing native & exotic trees opposite the Maungati Church Hall in this valley which is overlooked by limestone cliffs. Ti Kouka - Cabbage tree is our logo.

A curving avenue of 38 cherry trees were planted in September 2009 with the help of many friends.

The Waitaha Upoko Rangi Te Maiharoa, whose ancestors drew Moa & Pouakai Eagle in nearby limestone shelters, gave Fiona the name Rongomararoa - meaning The Long Pathway to Peace. In 2011 the Rev Sue Dickson Blessed the Waitaha 12 pole Roundhouse & An Arai - encircling-hedge of willow. METTA - the Thai Buddhist word, given by Nui Elworthy, above the entrance means LOVING KINDNESS TO ALL.

Many working Bees have been kindly supported by Maungati Families as planting, developments and Rabbit proof fencing have been carried out. Mowing the grass and walkway maintenance is ongoing with Roland Dale and John Brownlie being the mainstays of assistance.

There are now approximately 180 named trees planted for a person and/or families. There are no ashes placed by trees. This is a place of memories, of celebrations, of happiness & healing; affectionately named by the little children from He Manu Hou "OUR PLACE".

Kindergartens & Schools are among groups who request permission to visit & explore Rongomaraeroa Peace Walk. One wedding, with the bride arriving on horseback, has been held.

Rongomaraeroa is open to the public on certain conditions:

Groups & Tours are asked to please contact Megan McEwan, secretary of Craigmore Station. Email megan.mcewan@outlook.com and copy to fi.elworthy@gmail.com Phone 027 612 9891, or write to us - Craigmore Station, RD2 Timaru 7972
We do not wish to have two large groups coming on the same day. Time & date can be arranged with Megan or Fiona.
A guide, either Fiona or a Maungati resident, is usually available to welcome groups.
A koha - donation would be gratefully appreciated from groups.
Bank Account details are Craigmore Station Ltd:
ANZ Bank Account No. 06-0193-0722199-03

Koha - donations of seats, sculpture & timber have been received.

A Spring Celebration is often held at the end of September when the Japanese Cherry blossoms are in flower.

VISITORS are welcome but you must realise you enter at your own risk. Craigmore Station is not responsible for any accidents. No cars are permitted, no fires, no guns, no smoking, all dogs must please be on leashes.

The Maungati Hall has outside tables & an outside toilet at the east end and may be used. Please note the Peace Walk & Hall located at 143 Timaunga Road has no cell phone reception!!

We hope you enjoy your time in Maungati at Rongomaraeroa Peace Walk