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• day 07
• Sunday, 2 September 2018
• Arras
• 141 km to yesterday
•     0 km today
• 141 km on Via Francigena to date

In the morning I transfer to the Ibis hotel closer to the centre with more modern facilities for the same price.  

Today (Saturday) I will visit the Carrière Wellington (or Wellington Tunnel) on the south side of the city.  This is one of at least four tunnels prepared by Kiwi tunnellers from late 1916 for use in a major offensive along the British sector (see Vimy above).  The task was to extend existing tunnels starting near central Arras to go beyond enemy lines for a surprise attack in April 2017.  I have booked and am part of an English speakers only group.  Before we start I approach the guide saying I am from Wellington, New Zealand (where we have an Aeeas Tunnel) and may I have a few moments towards the end of the tour.  He looks thoughtful and slowly nods.

The tour is wonderful.  Apart from the tunnellers, no Kiwi troops were involved in the battle.  And the troops that did were brought in at night about a week before the battle.  The Kiwi's left many mementos of their time there, including naming many of the streets using names from home, and these names are still visible.  The guide assembles in one place and after a few words looks and me and slowly nods.  I start by speaking Ka mate (no actions) and link Te Rauparaha from about 200 years ago to the battles of about 100 years ago with today - less than a minute.  The tour concludes above ground with a short film (English sub-titles) which connects the hostilities of 100 years and 75 years ago with the formation of the European Union and the promise of no more wars in Europe.  Many of the tour group (many of whom know of Ka mate) want to know a bit more.

At the end of the day I get a simple meal and go to a vigil Mass in the nearby parish church.

And so to bed.