McLean's Mansion, Heritage New Zealand Category 1 historic place in Christchurch Central City, New Zealand.
McLean's Mansion is a three-story wooden residence containing 53 rooms, including 19 bedrooms and 9 bathrooms with ornamental interior details throughout. The building displays Jacobean-inspired architectural features combined with Victorian design elements.
The mansion was built between April 1899 and September 1900 for Scottish philanthropist Allan McLean. It was the largest wooden structure in New Zealand upon its completion.
The mansion blends Jacobean architectural elements with Victorian details inspired by Mentmore Towers in England. Its interior showcases craftsmanship that reflects architect Robert England's vision throughout the rooms.
The two-hectare property lies between Manchester and Colombo Streets in central Christchurch. Restoration by the trust that bought the building in December 2016 is expected to finish by 2026, so access is limited until then.
The two entrance hat stands were carved as 7-foot mahogany tree trunks with bears and cubs, and the staircase newel posts carry thistle carvings as a nod to Allan McLean's Scotland. The house was built of kauri by Rennie and Pearce.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 93,845 contributors worldwide.
