About MarkThePast
MarkThePast combines the thrill of orienteering with the joy of historical discovery. Our rogaine-style maps guide you through the hidden stories of cities — one landmark at a time.
How it works
Each MarkThePast map is carefully researched and designed to guide you through a city’s most significant historical landmarks. The front of the map shows the locations of each control point — numbered markers indicating heritage sites worth discovering.
On the reverse, you’ll find a list of all control points with their names, brief descriptions, and QR codes. Scan any QR code with your phone to unlock the full story of that landmark, complete with photos, detailed narratives, and fascinating facts and a mini challenge.
The rogaine tradition
Rogaining is a sport that originated in Australia, where teams navigate between checkpoints across varied terrain using a map and compass. We’ve adapted this concept for urban heritage exploration: you choose your own route, visit as many (or as few) controls as you like, and discover the city at your own pace. We have taken away the need for a compass by giving you locations you can find.
Perfect for
- Tourists seeking authentic local experiences beyond typical attractions
- Locals wanting to rediscover their city’s hidden histories
- Families looking for educational outdoor activities
- History enthusiasts eager to walk in the footsteps of the past
- Walking groups and social clubs seeking structured adventures
- Fitness enthusiasts or rogainers who want to get out there & smash the course record
Our mission
We believe that every city has stories worth telling. Our mission is to make local history accessible, engaging, and fun. By combining physical maps with digital storytelling, we create affordable experiences that connect people with place and past.
Our pioneering forbears toiled to build communities they hoped would thrive for generations. In that spirit, we share a portion of proceeds with a local charity partner in each city to support people doing it tough. For example, our first Christchurch edition supports the Christchurch City Mission.
About Us
MarkThePast is an initiative by the owner of FarmAlert Ltd, a business with rural roots and an urban concern. The team we have assembled for this project has a passion for rogaining, history, story tellling and making a difference.
Contact
Questions, feedback, or support? Email us at support@farmalert.net .