Palmerston North's Secret Handshake

We chatted with Simon and Catherine to learn more about this place which is, as they put it, Palmy’s secret handshake.

What is Pork Chop Hill? How did the spot get its name?

Simon: No one actually knows how it got the name Pork Chop Hill. There are various theories bandied around but nothing verified! The site was once a Rangitane pa named Te Motu o Poutoa and was also later named ANZAC Park when the carpark was first developed as a scenic lookout. For many years the area had operated as a bit of an inspiration point, a place to go and “grow up”. It’s just across the river and at one time that was the edge of town. On a good day you can see all the way to Mount Taranaki and Ruapehu - it’s a fantastic vantage point, a place to park up and enjoy.

To Palmerstonians, the name Pork Chop Hill is like a secret handshake. People with a connection to Palmy, will recognise those three words on our t-shirts. Customers enjoy telling us on their return from overseas trips, how they were spotted by others “in the know.”

Catherine: We are focused on producing our own 'Kiwicentric' designs, not all of which relate to Manawatu or Palmerston North specifically. While our origins are here, we refer to the brand as celebrating Kiwi culture. We want our designs to resonate with Kiwi's in general. Several designs are very “Palmy-centric” which is fun to do for people here who enjoy that, but other designs such as Ruru, Road Kill, Nocturnal, Waka Kowhai are worn by customers throughout Aotearoa. They also make great gifts for whanau overseas.

How did the t-shirt brand and shop come about?

Simon: We wanted to do something new and had dabbled in t-shirts before. Originally we thought we’d just be online but the actual physical shop in Cuba Street is the place where it all comes together.

Catherine: It's very rewarding creating something that others enjoy wearing and that they feel represents something about them. We're making t-shirts that we relate to ourselves. Having been involved in the Palmerston North arts scene for many years, the Pork Chop Hill clothing label was another avenue to express ourselves. We have a small team of people who help us achieve this including local screen printers, Screenprint Services.

What have some of your favourite moments been at Pork Chop Hill?

Simon: No particular moments come to mind, but when I was young, it was all about the fun and the friendship. Now, it’s the memories and a sense of connection with the place.  

Catherine: Inspiration comes easily here. The light, the space, the view and the constant stream of people.