The Waterwheel project began in 1990, by local people in the Eastern Bay of Plenty, keen to preserve a vanishing history. Agricultural and industrial machinery used to shape our district in years past, was previously left languishing in paddocks and old farm sheds. The name of the trust is set to honour the very first power generated in the region via a waterwheel ordered by the Governor- Sir George Gray, back in 1860 to be used on a stream off Braemar Road- generating sufficient power to drive a flour mill. The forerunner of many more power driven industries in the region- timber, flax and paper mills, railways and dairy processing to name a few.
A community company was formed and with the foresight and passion of local man Stan Fretwell, plus a team of willing volunteers and retired tradesmen, they began assembling the collection in earnest. Restoration work has saved many vital pieces from certain degradation by the elements.
Over the years , the collection of equipment has moved from the original site on the corner of Thornton & Powdrell Roads, to the home of Volunteer Owen Rivers, then a fire took the collection to the Kawerau Konnect buildings in River Road, Kawerau and now to a permanent home, thanks to the generosity of local donors and volunteers, plus a little help from NZ Lotteries. The Waterwheel Historic Trust is now in the process of setting up the Waterwheel Heritage Park- a place where volunteers are able to pass on their skills and knowledge in the repair and restoration of various equipment and vehicles, ensuring another generation is able to continue preserving our history and also provide a place that will welcome visitors and introduce them to the stories that have shaped our region in days gone by.
Farming Like Grandad is an annual event of the Waterwheel Historic Trust, well supported by the Eastern Bay community, that celebrates those stories and the early methodology of farming life. A small gate fee, helps to keep the lights on and the wheels turning at the Waterwheel Historic Trust. which finally has a place to call home.
The Eastern Bay Community Foundation is proud to have supported this project, through the generosity of our donors.
Acknowledging the excellent photography captured by Kelly Rivers
Early horticultural spraying equipment
Doug & Stephanie Bull, Scottie McLeod and John Galbraith - Waterwheel enthusiasts and volunteers
Early Fire Appliance now housed at the Waterwheel Heritage Park
Wheels of all sizes and descriptions - on display at the Waterwheel Heritage Park
Original Waterwheel Volunteer Phil Leeming with EBCF Chair Scottie McLeod