Today we added some more knowledge to our kete as we explored one of Southland’s unique natural resources. Our challenge for the day was to be curious and present, taking the time to learn rather than rushing from one activity to the next.
Our first stop was the Templeton Flax Mill near Riverton, the last working flax mill in New Zealand. At one stage there were 83 flax mills operating throughout the country, making this site a very special piece of our history. We were fascinated by the process of turning harakeke (flax) into a valuable product and amazed to see machinery from the 1800s still operating today without the help of modern technology.
We learned that the labour-intensive nature of flax processing, combined with falling prices for the final product, led to the closure of mills around New Zealand. We are fortunate that the Templeton Flax Mill Heritage Trust recognised the importance of preserving this historic site so future generations can continue to learn from it.
The visit showed us how Southland’s natural resources have been used throughout history and continue to be valuable today, from film props used in Peter Jackson movies to innovative products made by KiwiFibre, including car components, snowboards, and more.
Watching the introductory film helped us understand the history of the Templeton Flax Mill and the people who worked there.
We explored information displays that showed how harakeke played a significant role in New Zealand’s early trade and development.
Students examined samples of processed flax and discovered the many products this natural resource has been used to create.
Everyone had the opportunity to get up close and touch freshly harvested harakeke while learning about the first stages of processing.
Seeing and feeling the finished flax fibre gave us a real appreciation for the skill, effort, and craftsmanship involved in the milling process.
