Te Mata the peak for couple

Hawke's Bay Today is supporting a fundraising campaign to build a visitor information and education centre at Te Mata Park, at the base of the mountain. In the months ahead, we will be writing stories about it

Te Mata Peak will always resemble a special time in Dominek Pullen's life.

It was the location where he remembers proposing marriage to his wife Louise, on Friday, October 24, 2008. The couple now live in Melbourne working in the customer service industry.

"I planned it to be on Te Mata Peak at night time, where you could see all the city lights. I packed a rug and some candles and played her favourite songs in the car.

"I chose Te Mata Peak for the beautiful view."

Mr Pullen said he grew up in Hastings while his wife was from Gisborne, where they eventually were married.

"I remember the peak being a Maori legend and being fascinated with the story. I remember going to the top of the peak with friends at night and during the day and I remember family outings there."

Mr Pullen said Te Mata Peak always comes up in conversation with friends across the ditch.

"I describe Hastings and Te Mata Peak as the most beautiful sight at night time.

" I tell people that standing on the top of the peak is just amazing and that although it is often windy up there, it's worth it."

Mr Pullen thought the idea of a new visitor and education centre for Te Mata Park was a step in the right direction for Hawke's Bay.

"I think it's great, Hawke's Bay needs to recognise Te Mata Peak as a treasure, an asset.

"If more people can get information about it, and all the legends that involve the peak, then money will be well spent. Te Mata Peak has a lot of potential to be a great tourist attraction for not only for Hawke's Bay but for New Zealand as whole."

Mr Pullen was married on earlier this year.

"... but unfortunately it wasn't at the peak, it was in Gisborne on the April 27, 2013. Although it wasn't the peak it was still a beautiful day."

Share your story If you have a story to share about a special marriage proposal or wedding ceremony involving Te Mata Park, please email news@hbtoday.co.nz or contact the news desk, (06) 873 0810. The stories goes in a draw to win a donated $100 voucher for the new The Peak restaurant when it opens in a few months.

Readers can LIKE their favourite story, either posted on the Hawke's Bay Today Facebook page or the Te Mata Park Facebook page. The story with the most LIKES wins.