Ferrymead Historic Park is about a 15 minute drive from the centre of town or you can catch the bus. Car Park just outside the attraction. It is $12 to get in on weekends and public holiday which also includes a ride on the tram or train, (tram in operation when we went).
This park is run by volunteers and a lot of the attractions are dependant on them. It was a public holiday when we went and it was pratically deserted which is a shame as it has a lot to offer. The volunteers dress up in vintage clothing and are only too keen to give you a run down on the park and what happened in the olden days.
We spent about 2 hours at the park. On arrival you are given a map which shows the historic buildings. You can go into old houses (well, old for New Zealand standards - 1930's) and see how they lived. Within the houses they also have puzzles i.e. can you see 3 different types of musical instruments and you would find a violin, a flute and a record player. Some things you can touch and some exhibits/rooms are behind a rope or glass.
Near the back the park is a graveyard for old fire engine applicances. They must have about 60 different types of engines that have existed throughout the world. Little kids can get dressed up and have their picture taken on one of them.
At the back of the park is a huge hanger which stores two aeroplanes which are currently being restored. Absolutely fantastic - a huge surprise to see these. I don't know how they are going to get them out but you can see the work going into them by the volunteers is a enormous pleasure.
Model trains have been set up in another building. About 4 or 5 different displays where you can press a button and the trains come alive. Great for little one's.
Have a trip into the old press rooms or post office or jail house...
Overall an enjoyable experience which is not widely advertised, and for the price I would recommend you spend an hour or two at this site and enjoy a trip back......
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