Auckland Historic Homes
For those with an interest in history and colonial architecture, there are several historic homes around the city which are open to the public. These include:
- Acacia Cottage (Cornwall Park, Greenlane)
Built in 1841, this small four-room cottage is the oldest surviving house in Auckland, and was relocated to Cornwall Park from its original position in O'Connell Street.
- Alberton House (100 Mt Albert Rd)
A fully restored Victorian homestead, dating back to 1862 and built by a farmer, Allan Kerr-Taylor. The two-storey mansion has magnificent domed towers built to remind him of his childhood in India.
- Ewelme Cottage (14 Ayr Street, Parnell)
A delightful cottage surrounded by a rambling old English garden, built between 1863 and 1864 by Reverend Vicesimus Lush. Most of the furniture and chattels are original.
- Highwic House (40 Gillies Ave, Epsom)
Auckland's second-largest historic home, begun in 1862 by Auckland businessman, Alfred Buckland. It was added to over the years by Buckland as his family grew larger.
- Huia Lodge (Cornwall Park, Greenlane)
Built in 1903 and home to the park's information centre. It features native timbers, historic displays and a 15-minute video.
- Kinder House (2 Ayr Street, Parnell)
A handsome stone house built in 1857 for the Reverend John Kinder, a keen photographer and painter. His works still hang on the walls and provide a fascinating insight into Auckland pioneer history.