With school holidays approaching, local parents Hannah Tunnicliffe and Erica Harrison wanted to offer something different to North Shore families. The result: A kid-friendly walking trail and adventure through Devonport village.
The Great Devonport History Mystery includes a guidebook with clues to solve, a pull-out poster map and free pencil. The self-guided 1km walk is easy for little legs and can be done at any time. The Great Devonport History Mystery also includes bonus activities; riddles, puzzles, mazes and colouring-in for kids to complete once the mystery is solved. Author and co-creator Hannah Tunnicliffe says, “As far as we know, there is nothing like The Great Devonport History Mystery in the whole of Auckland or even New Zealand. It’s good, old-fashioned fun… and device-free!”
The Great Devonport History Mystery enhances a trip to historic Devonport village. Easily added to lunch at a local café, fish ‘n’ chips dinner on the beach, or an afternoon ice-cream or a movie at The Vic, it's a great day-out option for grandparents, caregivers and visiting family. Multiple groups or families could combine it with an Easter egg hunt in one of the local parks or race one another to solve the mystery, and it is perfect for fans of shows like The Amazing Race or Treasure Island.
Clue-solvers are led through the streets and pages by Detective Stanley (a Sherlock Holmes style hound) and his pal, Pīwakaka. Kids will love the quirky local history facts throughout relating to rats, racecourses, moustaches and Anzac biscuits. There's even a 'magic' recipe which can be made at home later. The Great Devonport History Mystery has been thoughtfully illustrated and designed by talented local artist, Erica Harrison. All proceeds from sales of The Great Devonport History Mystery go directly to supporting the operations of local primary, Stanley Bay School.
This first-of-its-kind adventure costs $20 and can be bought from Paradox Books, Torpedo Bay Navy Museum, Devonport library, various Devonport cafés and the Stanley Bay Primary School office. Online orders can be made at www.devonporthistorymystery.com
