Living in the bush and at Quartzville, high on the hillside above Waiorongomai

Abstract

To avoid a long walk to and from work, some miners lived in whare scattered in the bush but close to the upper road between Waiorongomai village and the mines, and at the small settlement of Quartzville. In addition, some companies provided a small number of shanties for single men, some of which would be re-used in the 1930s. A few huts were erected in the Tui district. At Quartzville during the 1880s, several shopkeepers set up shop, receiving goods daily from Waiorongomai. There was also a post office and a small boarding house, but no licensed premises were permitted. By the end of the nineteenth century this settlement, which had housed some families as well as single men, had disappeared. Living in these out-of-the-way places had several hazards, notably fires, falling trees, and a steep and slippery road that needed constant repair. Little entertainment was possible, although for a time there were sporting teams and occasional meetings. For much of the year climatic conditions must have made for unpleasant living conditions.