Parihaka Commemorative Silent Hikoi or 'Pilgrimage Walk'

A commemorative Parihaka silent hikoi or 'pilgrimage walk' will start from the old Lyttelton gaol (also known as the Rose Garden - up the steps from 54 Oxford Street) and then moving around the coastal track to Rāpaki and the Parihaka Memorial. This will be led by Lyttleton's Rev. John McLister with pauses along the way to meditate, be quiet, or pray. Good walking shoes, drink bottle, a waterproof jacket, maybe a walking stick and (most definitely) bright and high-vis clothing are recommended.

The purpose of this hikoi is to remember the Taranaki men sent to prison in Te Waipounamu/South Island, away from their beloved people, whenua and maunga, to be imprisoned for no cause, to do hard labour - and in some case, to die. The hikoi finishes at Rāpaki, a place of special honour due to the hapu's care and generosity to the Parihaka prisoners because they cared for the bodies of the deceased and interred them in their own urupa. He toa taumata rau! Bravery has many resting places!

Please note: for those not able to commit to the whole hikoi, it's intended there will be places people can join this walk along the way. More will be posted on FB and Instagram nearer to the time.

At 5pm, at Rāpaki Church (37 Rāpaki Drive), the hikoi will be followed by a memorial service held by Rev Maui Stuart and karakia at the Parihaka memorial. This will be followed by light refreshments.

Anyone is welcome to join either or both events. All events are free.

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Contact: 021-405-039 | parihakaotautahi@gmail.com

Kia tau te rangimārie.