Kowhitirangi Memorial
A solemn memorial on New Zealand's West Coast commemorating a tragic 1941 massacre, honoring seven victims.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
For clear viewing
Kowhitirangi Memorial
Best Time
For clear viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn memorial on New Zealand's West Coast commemorating a tragic 1941 massacre, honoring seven victims.
"Interesting find. Memorial to the massacred. Sad the man wasn't helped with his mental health issues."
Respectful Visit
Approach with respect for the tragic history and victims. ๐
Check Weather
West Coast weather is unpredictable; pack for rain. โ๏ธ
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 ยท 22 reviews
Type
Park
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Memorial Boulder
Central monument
A large boulder from Diedrichs Creek, bearing bronze plaques for each victim.
Victim Commemorations
Bronze plaques on the boulder
Individual bronze plaques honor the seven men who lost their lives.
Historical Context
Surrounding information
Learn about the tragic events of October 1941 and Stanley Graham's actions.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Understand the History
Weather Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Respectful Visit
Approach with respect for the tragic history and victims. ๐
Check Weather
West Coast weather is unpredictable; pack for rain. โ๏ธ
Photography
Capture the solemnity, but be mindful of the site's nature. ๐ท
Learn the Story
Research the 'Bad Blood' massacre beforehand for deeper understanding. ๐
Tips
from all over the internet
Respectful Visit
Approach with respect for the tragic history and victims. ๐
Check Weather
West Coast weather is unpredictable; pack for rain. โ๏ธ
Photography
Capture the solemnity, but be mindful of the site's nature. ๐ท
Learn the Story
Research the 'Bad Blood' massacre beforehand for deeper understanding. ๐
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Kowhitirangi Memorial to be an interesting and important historical site, though deeply saddening. The memorial effectively commemorates the seven victims of the 1941 massacre, prompting reflection on the tragic events and the perpetrator's mental health struggles. Some note that visiting in heavy rain is common but doesn't deter from the solemn experience.
"Very interesting but sad history. Rest in peace for all who perished in this sad event"
Mike FreeRider Gagne
"Reached here and was heavily raining, still can't stop myself from clicking few pics
On 8 and 9 October 1941 Stanley Graham, a deranged local farmer, opened fire on police and other locals. Seven men were killed or later died of their injuries. This memorial to the victims was unveiled on 8 October 2004. It has been created from a large boulder from nearby Diedrichs Creek. Each person who died is commemorated by a bronze plaque.
Those killed were: Sergeant William Cooper, Constable Ted Best, Constable Percy Tulloch, Constable Fred Jordan, George Ridley, Gregory Hutchison, and Richard Coulson."
Jobin David Chenkolankandy
"Interesting find. Memorial to the massacred. Sad the man wasn't helped with his mental health issues."
Sarah Rowe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
๐ ๐บ๏ธ Getting There
The Kowhitirangi Memorial is located in Kowhitirangi, on the West Coast of New Zealand. It's accessible by car, typically as part of a scenic drive through the region. Ensure your GPS is updated for rural roads.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the memorial site, allowing visitors to stop and pay their respects.
Yes, it can be visited as part of a day trip, especially if you are exploring the wider West Coast region. Plan your route to include it.
๐ซ ๐ซ Tickets & Entry
No, the Kowhitirangi Memorial is a public monument and does not have an entrance fee. It is free to visit and pay your respects.
As an outdoor memorial, it is generally accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and viewing.
๐ซ ๐งญ Onsite Experience
The main feature is a large boulder from Diedrichs Creek, inscribed with bronze plaques commemorating the seven victims of the 1941 massacre.
Most visitors spend around 15-30 minutes to read the plaques, reflect on the history, and take in the surroundings.
While children can visit, it's important to explain the somber nature of the memorial and encourage respectful behavior due to the tragic history.
Yes, you can take photos, but it's important to do so respectfully, given the memorial's purpose. Some visitors note that heavy rain can affect photo quality.
๐ซ ๐ History & Significance
It commemorates the tragic massacre that occurred on October 8-9, 1941, when Stanley Graham killed seven men. This event is sometimes referred to as 'Bad Blood'.
Stanley Graham was a local farmer who, due to apparent mental health issues, went on a shooting rampage, killing seven people before being apprehended.
The memorial was unveiled on October 8, 2004, exactly 63 years after the tragic events it commemorates.
It serves as a solemn reminder of the victims and the tragic events, prompting reflection on mental health and community support.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit