There is “a whole lot of content to come” from Wānaka History, which was launched yesterday (Wednesday January 22) at the Wānaka Library.

Wānaka History is a creative initiative of the Upper Clutha History Society.

Its goal is to “reach out and educate and tell stories,” society president Ed Waddington told the crowd at yesterday’s launch event.

The Wānaka History website went live in December and it features a growing collection of information about local people, landmarks and history.

Most of the written content on the website was created by “prolific author and forensic historian” Ken Allan over many years, Ed said.

The website also features maps and images of Wānaka and its surrounds dating many years back.

Wānaka History plans to continue to “expand the website,” Ed said, with the next addition set to be audio clips and interviews completed by the oral history group. 

Another aspect of Wānaka History will be plaques, which will be installed in locations around the Upper Clutha. These will link via QR code to articles and information on the Wānaka History website.

Ed described yesterday’s event as a “soft launch”.

He thanked the many people and organisations who had contributed to Wānaka History.

“It’s been a huge effort along the way”.

Take a dive into local history at the Wānaka History website here.

IMAGE: Wānaka History