Settlement in Stoke

Stoke was first known as “Brook Green” but renamed by William Songer who arrived in Nelson in 1841 as Captain Wakefield’s personal attendant. He was Stoke’s first settler, and named the place in memory of his English birthplace. Settlers cleared flax and raupo and fruit growing became the main occupation of settlers in Stoke by the mid 1890s.

This trail is the companion to the Saunter in Stoke and highlights some of the historic background of central Stoke. 

Two companion walks exist:

  • Tthe Isel Park Tree Walk focuses on the heritage and important specimen trees within Isel Park
  • The Saunter in Stoke explores many attractive green areas and interesting plants.

Also, visit the PROW for more stories about Stoke and the people who lived there.

Download the map

Download the two-page map and description of the Settlement in Stoke Walk (245KB PDF).