Marlborough Express - Weekend Express
Magical history tour
‘‘The history of many of these buildings is fascinating.’’
Some of Nelson’s oldest homes will open their doors to the public in a bid to raise funds for charity.
The Heritage Homes Tour is a rare opportunity for Nelsonians to step inside eight heritage listed homes in the city. The house owners will open their doors to allow tour participants to get a glimpse of their unique residences.
The tour will be held on Saturday, April 14 and is organised by the Nelson Cancer Society to raise funds to help those affected by cancer.
Nelson Cancer Society Centre manager Michelle Hunt said the charity relied on fundraising and the generosity and support of the community.
‘‘It’s a great opportunity to experience these wonderful heritage homes while raising funds for a worthy cause. What’s raised locally, stays in the area to help those affected by cancer.’’
The tour visits eight heritage homes in Nelson city on a 5km tour and could be easily walked or biked on the day.
Hunt said a team of over 40 volunteers were helping in the homes on the day.
‘‘We have had heaps of fun meeting the home owners and personally learning a lot of history about each of the houses and the original families.
The Heritage Homes Tour is part of three weeks of events celebrating Nelson’s unique stories, people and places, which begins on April 9.
Nelson City Council is supporting individuals and community groups to run their own events to celebrate and highlight Nelson’s heritage.
Community Services Committee chair and councillor Gaile Noonan said the tour was an opportunity to celebrate Nelson’s rich history.
‘‘The history of many of these buildings is fascinating and it highlights the importance of protecting them for future generations.
‘‘The Heritage Homes Tour also recognises the work being done by these home owners, and others, to conserve and maintain the history embodied in privately owned heritage homes.’’
Heritage Homes Tour on April 14 from 10am – 4pm. Tickets are $50 which includes a Devonshire tea in one of the gardens and can be purchased from the Nelson Cancer Society Office at 102 Hardy Street or online at cancersocietynelson.org.nz.