Stratford's Pioneer Village goes back in time for the day

Members of the armed constabulary - Bruce Cairns, Darryl Thomas and Phil Carney.

For the more than 800 visitors who walked through Stratford's Pioneer Village on Sunday, it was a step back in time.

From the moment visitors walked in, their senses were assaulted with the sound, smells and sights of life during the war years.

Air raid sirens gave just seconds of warning before the skies were filled with low-flying aircraft, while tanks rolled into action firing at them.

Seraphina Heckler, Captain Quill and Miss Adventure of the SteamPunk Pirates, Opunake came along for the day.

Members of the Armed Constabulary re-enactment group, which has members all around the North Island, gave chase to bushrangers around the village, firing shots, calling to each other and making arrests as people watched.

Amateur historical costumer Nicola Temby travelled from Palmerston North with friend Liane Rowe, to stroll through the village in their handmade and authentic period clothes.

Tanks defended the spectators from an air raid.

"It's lovely to come here for this. It is like taking a walk into the past," said Liane. Nicola said the reactions of people to their costumes made the trip worthwhile.

They research the costumes thoroughly before making them, keeping them as authentic as possible.

Chairman of the Pioneer Village John Campbell says the day was very successful for the village, with people visiting from far away as well as locals.

Liane Rowe and Nicola Temby travelled from Palmerston North for the day.

Thanks were due to the many people who made the day possible, including the Military Vehicle Display Club of Taranaki, Air cadets of No 48 Squadron and the Stratford Aero Club as well as many volunteers who help at the Village, families and friends.

He also thanked the public who came along to support the day.