Media Release
Monday 11 September 2006

Neighbours invited to celebrate shared history by ferry or by foot

Auckland was a city founded on its Port, and for more than a century the two have developed and flourished together. Ports of Auckland is inviting it’s neighbours to celebrate this shared history during the upcoming Auckland Heritage Festival, 16 to 24 September.

Ports of Auckland’s popular Heritage Boat Tours will be available again free to the public on four occasions throughout the 9-day festival. The tours provide a captivating heritage commentary and unique water-side view of the Port by ferry boat.

Aucklanders are also invited to take a step back in time with the Red Fence Heritage Walk. The new walk will make its debut during the festival, guiding walkers along the waterfront where Auckland had its very beginnings. Along the way participants will discover the dramatic history behind the Red Fence, learn of Auckland’s transformation since the 1800s, and view, among other things, the last remaining rock of Britomart Point where Auckland was founded in 1841.

Ports of Auckland Heritage Boat Tours:

Auckland’s suitability as a port was the reason Governor Hobson established New Zealand’s first capital here. You’re invited aboard our one-hour Heritage Boat Tour to learn about the Auckland Port’s fascinating history. Bookings are essential, phone Fullers on (09) 367 9111 and quote ‘Ports of Auckland Heritage Boat Tour’.

Saturday 16 September at 11am and again at 1pm
Saturday 23 September at 11am and again at 1pm

The Red Fence Heritage Walk:

Some of Auckland’s most dramatic events took place along the stretch of waterfront marked by Ports of Auckland’s historic Red Fence. Ports of Auckland invite you to join one of three free 50-minute guided walks, each ending at the observation deck overlooking the container port.

*Meet on Quay Street outside the New Zealand National Maritime Museum:
Saturday 16 September, 12:30pm
Tuesday 19 September, 12:30pm
Thursday 21 September, 12:30pm

Self-guided walk brochures are also available online at www.poal.co.nz/community or from the Auckland City Visitors Centre.

ENDS

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