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Nelson Historical Society Journal, Volume 6, Issue 5, 2002

[introduction to Ezra Brook Dixon: Pioneer Settler at Paynes Ford, Takaka Valley]

page 16

The bush-covered limestone outcrops at Paynes Ford Scenic Reserve are familiar to all who drive on State Highway 60 to Takaka, and the Reserve is a popular place for picnicking and rock-climbing. The crags overlook the Takaka River at its confluence with the Waingaro.

Why Paynes Ford? It remained a ford until 1895, when the first bridge was opened. The family associated with the area was Paine, but the misspelling of the name crept in from about 1891. There was, however, an earlier name linked with the ford, that of Dixon. It was still referred to as Dixon's ford, or Dixon's crossing, until at least 1889. Ezra Brook Dixon and his wife Laura remained in the Takaka Valley only thirteen years, but in that time made a significant contribution to the embryo settlement. Their experiences illustrate the hardships and difficulties faced by many pioneers.