Originally established in 1843 as “Pitfure”, Wakefield is a picturesque settlement on New Zealand’s South Island. It is believed to have been named after Captain Arthur Wakefield, who served in the Royal Navy and is credited with founding Nelson in 1941.
Stroll through Wakefield to see New Zealand’s oldest school, Wakefield Primary, and admire the heritage-listed St. John’s Church. Built in 1864, it was designed by Marianne Reay, making it one of the country’s earliest colonial buildings designed by a woman. Elevated views across the town can be enjoyed from the Faulkner Bush Scenic Reserve.
More than 30 buildings and stores are clustered within the Willow Bank Heritage Village, an interactive, living history museum on the edge of Wakefield. You can dress up in old-fashioned clothes, watch demonstrations of traditional crafts and enjoy authentic Devonshire tea. In addition to a 1950s burger joint and a 1970s milk bar, the village features a vintage puppet theatre and cinema.
Getting there
Wakefield is around 20 minutes’ drive from Nelson and 25 minutes from Nelson Airport, which has flights to destinations across New Zealand. Regular buses connect to Wakefield and the village is small enough to explore on foot.