History of Punakaiki and the West Coast
Our family’s roots on the West Coast began 120 years ago when our great-great-grandfather travelled to the coast from Christchurch.
Our grandad was instrumental in the setting up and funding of Shantytown, the heritage park outside Greymouth. 50 years later, Shantytown is still going strong.
Grandad grew up in Greymouth and spent his teen summers fishing and hunting up and down the coast, particularly around Punakaiki and Barrytown.
After a generation away, we have reconnected with our West Coast roots/heritage by building a bach at BIV Punakaiki.
A part of the Truman-Panckhurst Connection
Family in front of the bach of G.M. Truman, Bullock Creek, Porari Lagoon, Punakaiki (Circa 1952)
Back row: George Truman, Lester Truman (with hat)
Middle row: Ron Panckhurst (Dad), Douglas Truman
Front row: Margaret Panckhurst, Joy Truman
“So many amazing walks and historic sites”
We absolutely loved our stay at BIV Punakaiki. As well as the traditional tourist activities in Punakaiki, the trip to the Denniston Plateau north of Westport was spectacular.”
PAM from West Melton
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