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Historical
& Cultural
Stories

From Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough.

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Stories from the Top of the South

Welcome to The Prow, a website featuring historical and cultural stories from Nelson, Tasman and Marlborough.

Te Tau Ihu o Te Waka a Māui is the Māori name for the top of the South Island. Legend tells us that Te Tau Ihu was the prow of Māui's waka, or canoe, from which he fished up the North Island.

Join our voyage and discover more about the history and stories of Te Tau Ihu. Search or browse the theme pages, our timeline or the map location feature, add your own story, or comment on any story. Contact us for further information or to provide feedback on our stories.

The Prow is a collaboration between Nelson Public Libraries, Tasman District Libraries and Marlborough District Libraries, the Nelson Provincial Museum, and the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology.  Images are supplied by supporting institutions, please check their terms of use.

Friday, 7 February 2025

Story of the Day

Appo Hocton

New Zealand's first Chinese immigrant came to Nelson in 1842.

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Recent Stories

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Brian Neill

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Trathens Store

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Nelson Yacht Club

Ngawhatu 1905

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Wakapuaka Cemetery

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Skateboarding in Nelson

NCG Tennis at the Ladies College now Nelson College for Girls in 1889

Nelson College for Girls

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Jane Evans

Akersten

James Akersten

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Nelson Literary Scientific and Philosophic Institute

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