About Us

• John Campbell – Chairman
• Deane Kelly
• Casey Wellington
• Sean Sullivan
• Rob Clarkson
• Elizabeth Smith
• Jon Palmer
• Lydia Smith

The Taranaki Pioneer Village, on SH3 at Stratford South, was developed following purchase of ten acre property in 1976. Initial funding from founder donors and debenture holders was attracted by a promotional prospectus. The property included a lake and a 1910 villa residence which remains today.

 

With support from founder members, business associates, funding sources and various donors of buildings and objects, the Society has been fortunate to continually evolve. Today, with forty buildings including significant authentic structures and interior displays of heritage interest, an outdoor museum now affectionately known as ‘the village’ has been established.

 

Contrasting with the ‘stepping back in time’ experience within the village (circa 1850-1950) the frontage has modern amenities to service both the visitor industry and local community. A café, function centre and extended car park was developed in 2010.

 

To be acknowledged is the financial support received from major funders, Taranaki Electricity Trust, TSB Bank Community Trust and Toi Foundation who have greatly assisted the Society to become a unique historic visitor attraction and a multi-purpose venue appropriate for school education groups, weddings and coach tours.

 

Overseeing the governance of the Society, a management board continues to strive towards preserving and presenting local and regional history – an inheritance that continues to appreciate as time passes.