ZOE REISS
Wakefield’s rich history was brought to life through guided walks hosted by the Waimea South Historical Society.
One of the oldest towns in New Zealand, Wakefield was once a place where doctors were paid in vegetables, meat and other goods rather than money.
The Society’s historical walks cover a range of topics, including health services, historic buildings and notable figures.
The most recent walk, held on Sunday, 30 October, focused on midwifery, medical and nursing services.
Visitors learned about Curt Sally Meyer, a German Jew who arrived in Wakefield after World War II and practised as a doctor after passing his New Zealand medical exams.
“It [the historical walks] began two years ago when the Tasman District Council, the Nelson City Council and several other organisations decided to get people out, so they can learn something about the local history,” says Yvonne Tye, secretary of the Waimea South Historical Society.
The Society, established in 1981, continues to preserve and share the area’s history through an online collection of photographs, books and records.
