A Year 11 History Investigation into Quarantine Island

On the 13th of March, the Year 11 History and International students visited Quarantine Island (Kamau Taurua) as part of our study into local history and source analysis. As the largest island in the Otago Harbour, it served as the primary quarantine station protecting the mainland from several infectious diseases in the 19th century. The day began with an exciting ten-minute ferry ride, navigating the waves to reach the island.

Upon arrival, we were greeted by the rusted hulls of the Waikana and Oreti. After receiving our research booklets, we began our first task, annotating the intricately carved island sign at the entrance, which provided a great start to our source analysis. We then climbed further inland, where the remarkable St Martin Lodge came into sight. After learning about the lodge’s history, we moved to the Married Quarters building. Stepping inside, it was easy to visualise the building as it once was, filled with bunks and the muffled cries of families in isolation, attended by a handful of nurses.

After documenting the Married Quarters, we walked to the chapel. Built by the St Martin Island Community, its sail-like architecture is world-renowned and remains a stunning landmark. From there, we began a high-intensity walk across the hilly terrain to a vantage point overlooking Goat Island. We discussed its significance as a secondary quarantine site for single men, a place often associated with isolation and misery.

Our journey continued to the Shot at Dawn memorial, a sobering place for reflection on the New Zealand soldiers executed during WWI. We then walked up to the burial site. We learned that half of the burials in this cemetery are children, a tragic reflection of the diseases of the time. The only major headstone still visible is that of the Dougall family, including John Dougall, who had been appointed the island's first Keeper. After paying our respects, we quietly walked back to the Married Quarters for lunch and spent 50 minutes enjoying the island's natural beauty. The day ended on a high note with a stop at Four Square for ice cream, kindly provided by Ruby’s family.

Written by Aleena Reji and Maryann Vishal