Gapes Valley Explained

Gapes Valley is a valley in the Canterbury Region in the South Island of New Zealand. It is about west of Geraldine and located on the Geraldine Fairlie Highway. The valley is nestled between the Waitohi Hill and the Rocky Ridges[1] and is described as being long with the flat land of exceptional quality.[2] Today Gapes Valley consists of a sparse grouping of houses, the hall and a recently established brewery.

History

The valley was named after William Gapes (born in Saffron Walden, Essex, England; twin brother of James Gapes), who after working throughout the region settled on an farm in the valley.[3] The valley was once home to a small post office. The Gapes Valley School was opened in 1882[4] though would later close with students moving to the nearby Hilton School.

Many roads in the area bear the names of pioneer families, such as: Halls, Loves, Patricks, Slacks and Wells.[1]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Gapes Valley, Canterbury – NZ Topo Map. NZ Topo Map. 17 October 2016.
  2. Web site: 'Cyclopedia of New Zealand' Gapes Valley. www.rootsweb.ancestry.com. 17 October 2016.
  3. Book: Geraldine: The First 150 Years. 1 January 2006. Geraldine 150 Committee. 9780473110925. en.
  4. Book: Journals [and Appendices] ]. 1 January 1882 . 75.