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Bruce Haywood MNZM FRSNZ

We are thrilled to announce that Bruce Hayward will be joining us as a keynote speaker at the Legends of the West Heritage Conference 2025. Bruce Hayward is a distinguished New Zealand geologist, marine ecologist, and author, renowned for his expertise in living and fossil foraminifera. His extensive and diverse career has earned him a reputation as a leading authority in his field.

Bruce’s contributions to conservation are notable. He has served as a member of both the Auckland Conservation Board and the New Zealand Conservation Authority, and he is a former president of the Geological Society of New Zealand. His passion for natural and human history is evident in his prolific authorship, having written twenty books on subjects ranging from archaeology and the kauri timber and gum industries to the history of Auckland cinemas, New Zealand fossils, volcanoes, building stones, and conservation.

At the conference, Bruce Hayward will deliver a keynote address focusing on the geological changes along the west coast and its rich geological history. His presentation promises to offer valuable insights and engage attendees with his extensive knowledge and research findings. For a sneak peek into some of his work, particularly his study on Lion Rock at Piha, please check out the link below.

We look forward to welcoming Bruce Hayward and gaining from his profound understanding of geology and natural history. His presence at the Legends of the West Heritage Conference 2025 is sure to be an enlightening and inspiring experience for all attendees.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lJdiUQFsxqA

The Geology and Coastal Erosion of Piha, Auckland The rocks of Piha beach near Auckland are the eroded remnants of the ancient Waitākere Volcano. This huge volcano extended over a vast area and consisted of a variety of rocks that were erupted over several million years. Whakaare / Lion Rock and the other cliffs of Piha Beach allow us to piece together some of the history of the volcano. …www.youtube.com
Join Us for a Historical Performance

Featuring Sir Bob Harvey and the Descendants of Captain Tomas Wing

We are happy to announce that Sir Bob Harvey, along with his family, will be performing at our upcoming event. Adding to the excitement, we present to you the legendary Captain Tomas Wing, famously known as the Harbour Master of Manukau. Captain Wing was a renowned sailor and explorer, and a cherished figure in the early sailing ventures into the Kaipara and Hokianga.

Our exploration has unearthed four ancient paintings of the house at Whatipu, and we are privileged to have four direct descendants of Captain Wing share a captivating presentation. The PowerPoint will cover Wing’s illustrious life, his family, the Wing Head site, the signal station, the signals, and even a canon.

These descendants, Barbara Harvey, Rupert Harvey, and Claris Harvey, are also cousins of Peter Blake, another illustrious member of the Wing lineage. They are prepared to deliver an enriching talk at the Huia Settlers Museum, delving into the life of Captain Wing, the Manukau heads and bar, and the poignant shipping disaster of the HMS Orpheus.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as we bring history to life through the voices of those who carry its legacy.

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