The 175th commemoration of the wreck of HMS Buffalo in Mercury Bay will be held in Whitianga during July this year.

A week-long programme has been organised by members from a number of organisations led by the Mercury Bay Historical Society and Mercury Bay Museum, and runs from July 28 to August 2.

In July a week-long programme of events have been organised for the 175th commemoration of the wreck of the HMS Buffalo. Photo: allaboutwhitianga.co.nz

On July 28, 1840, the Buffalo was carrying a cargo of kauri bound for England when it lost steerage in an easterly storm and was driven ashore to save lives, just off the beach which now bears its name.

Two crew members died and further deaths were prevented by the quick actions of Captain James Wood, crew and local Maaori. Some crew members stayed on and settled in New Zealand.

The Thames-Coromandel District Council says the planned activities will focus on recognising the Buffalo's history, the two crew lost, the historical importance of the ship's activities to Whitianga, and the many stories linked to the Buffalo's journeys.

'The week features talks at Mercury Bay Museum, activities at Mercury Bay Library, guided walks and activities at schools in Mercury Bay,” says council. 'A commemorative buoy will be installed on the site of the wreck.”

On Wednesday, July 29, there will be a screening of the award-winning movie Song of the Kauri at Mercury Twin Cinemas.

Director/producer Mathurin Molgat will attend and violinist Helen Duder, who is a descendant of a Buffalo crew member, will play a violin made of kauri.

A special HMS Buffalo Dinner will be held at the Mercury Bay Club on Friday, July 31.

'The programme culminates in Homecoming Weekend,” adds council, 'with highlights including a ceremony on Saturday, August 1 at the Buffalo Commemoration Site on Buffalo Beach.

'Navy representatives will attend and wreaths will be laid at the wreck site.”

Later that day there will be a Polar Swim and a Big Dig competition and the charity Shipwreck Ball will be held at Whitianga Waterways in the evening.

Then on Sunday, August 2, a guided walk from Ferry Landing to Shakespeare Cliff will show participants the path the Buffalo took as it dragged its anchor at Cooks Beach before beaching off Whitianga.

For more information visit: allaboutwhitianga.co.nz or contact the Mercury Bay Museum's Ron Morgan on 07-866-0730 or email: [email protected]