Historic Significance

Historical Significance or Value The Hitching Rail located outside of the Bank of New Zealand at Raetihi is a well-preserved reminder of the bygone era of horse transport. It is connected with the second Bank of New Zealand building constructed at Raetihi, which is significant as the first substantial commercial building in the Waimarino County and as the one of the oldest commercial structures remaining standing in Raetihi. The simple structure demonstrates the lengths to which the BNZ went to provide for the needs of its customers. Highly valued by the local community, the Hitching Rail is an integral part of the heritage of the Waimarino County.

Detail Of Assessed Criteria

(a) The extent to which the place reflects important or representative aspects of New Zealand history: The Hitching Rail at Raetihi is a relatively rare example of the hitching rails that were common during the era of horse transport. (b) The association of the place with events, persons, or ideas of importance in New Zealand history: The Hitching Rail is intimately associated with the BNZ at Raetihi, which was given a Category II rating by the NZHPT. (c) The potential of the place to provide knowledge of New Zealand history: The Hitching Rail is a physical reminder of the era of horse transport and, as such, provides knowledge of New Zealand's past. (e)The community association with, or public esteem for, the place: The Hitching Rail is highly esteemed by the local community. It has been carefully preserved and has prompted the construction of a copy on the opposite side of the road. (f) The potential of the place for public education The Hitching Rail is located on the main street of Raetihi and is therefore fully accessible to members of the public. (g)The technical accomplishment or value, or design of the place: The simplistic design of the rail is unlike any other registered hitching rail.