Parts of the coastal walkway along the foreshore of Thames allow us to find glimpses of the sea. Not much joy on the stretch from the Shortland Wharf, north to Pak'n Save...but then there are open views by the bird hide. Venture further north to the small gauge railway and you get to see the sea at last, on the pathway to Albert Street.
A perfect place for a seat or two, has often been my plea. Like the old days, when Thamesites relaxed at the park. (photographs below)
The walkway in the early 1900s, did the circuit around the park, small trees dotted the grounds, and beautiful seats lined the pathway.
Today the coastal walkway shelters behind the rock wall adjacent to the Firth. Thamesites have again found their love of walking, and you very rarely ever wander along with out meeting someone (and a few dogs).
Between the tennis courts and Albert Street, there now is a grand, sturdy seat - which allows the pedestrian to pause and view the sea, or face towards the Waiotahi Hill and the Peace Memorial.
Jean Helen Harison (1933-1995) & Christopher Stratford Harison (1929-2018)
There is a plaque on both sides of the seat which simply reads "In Memory of Chris & Jean Harison."
The Harison's came to Thames in 1975, both had jobs at Thames Hospital. Mr Harison was the first fulltime obstetrician / gynaecologist for the Thames Hospital Board and worked tirelessly to advance obstetric care on the Coromandel Peninsula. Chris retired in 1992.
Next time you are out walking, stop for a minute and enjoy the views from 'our' new seat.
Special thanks to everyone who is involved with establishing the seating along the walkway.
