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Waitaki Valley
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A visit to the Waitaki district
is bound to be rewarding, no matter what time of year or what type of day.
It is a place of wonder, with awesome valleys, majestic mountains, pristine
lakes, raging rivers, unique wildlife and unbelievable scenery.
The Waitaki district lies in the centre of the South Island of New Zealand,
close to 45 degrees south - the parallel that is exactly halfway between the
Equator and the South Pole.
The area is a popular spot for people who like fishing, and for boating
enthusiasts, and a sports-person's paradise, thanks to the fabulous lakes on
the Waitaki River. People flock from throughout New Zealand and overseas to
enjoy the outdoor pursuits and tranquility. |
The Memorial Oaks
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In 1911, North Otago had a
population of 15,499. Of the estimated 2000 men who left North Otago to
serve in this country's armed forces during World War I, at least 300 did
not return. Dozens of North Otago families, like other throughout New
Zealand, mourned the loss of one, two or more young men. Sadly, this loss
was to be compounded by further sacrifice in World War II.
In 1919, 400 oak trees were planted in North Otago, one for each of those
who paid the supreme sacrifice. This would ensure both a living and
impressive memorial. Each had a marker post and a bronze plaque, and in the
country, a protective fence.
The trees were planted in the form of a wheel, the hub being in central
Oamaru, and radiating out both North and South. In the country, the trees
were planted on arterial roads at one-mile intervals, including State
Highway 83 from Oamaru to Kurow. Where possible they were planted near the
home of the soldier they commemorated.
While many of the trees flourished, many succumbed to drought, road works,
or in some cases, neglect. Others were pruned severely if electricity lines
were placed above the oaks.
In 1953, the Community Groves scheme began to replace lost trees on the
state highways, and groves were planted in some towns. As the century wore
on, deteriorating fences and marker posts resulted in many of the plaques
being handed in to the North Otago Returned Services Association. But still,
every Anzac* Day, the remaining bronze plaques would be polished and posies
of flowers placed near them.
*Australian and New Zealand Army Corps |
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