Mission Ground Cemetery is located at the end of Selwyn Avenue, adjacent to the entrance of The Quarry Arts Centre.
History
Although interdenominational, the site was named the Mission Ground Cemetery as it was originally established by the Melanesian Missionary Society before falling under the jurisdiction of the Whangarei Borough Council.
Sadly, the cemetery fell into neglect after burials stopped in 1940. In the years that followed, the headstones were removed and cemented to the concrete strip, which can still be seen alongside the footpath. This solution was not popular and the site became known as Tombstone Alley.
Later, the headstones were completely removed and many were buried at the Kioreroa Cemetery.
Cemetery records and other information
Burial records, memorial books and other information can be found in the Northland Room at the Whangārei Central Library. These are not available for loan and can only be viewed at the library.
Mission Ground Cemetery – library catalogue search (wdc.sirsidynix.net.au)
The cemetery today
In 2011, a memorial was unveiled by members of the Whangārei community.
Coinciding with the memorial, a book was also launched called In Memoriam, Mission Ground Cemetery 1840-2010. Compiled and edited by Joan Leversedge and designed by Whangarei District Council, the book is a collection of stories about the lives of those known to be buried at the Mission Ground Cemetery.
The book is available for viewing in the Northland Room at the Whangārei Central Library. You can also email Joan Leversedge to get a copy of the book:
Email: joan.leversedge@xtra.co.nz