Kinder House and Ewelme Cottage

Kinder House and Ewelme Cottage are two historic residential buildings in Parnell that were preserved to showcase 19th-century architecture and furnishings. The larger structure was built from grey volcanic stone and displays Gothic-influenced design, while the smaller cottage contains original period furniture and a substantial book collection.

Kinder House was commissioned in 1857 by Bishop George Selwyn, who hired architect Frederick Thatcher to design the building. Ewelme Cottage was constructed for another family and both structures now stand as examples of how residential architecture evolved in that era.

The property reflects how wealthy families in 19th-century Auckland decorated their homes with books, furnishings, and personal collections. The buildings show the domestic life and living standards of prominent residents during that era.

Both buildings are open to visitors and serve as gallery and event spaces. It is best to check ahead for current visiting times, as the property may have varying hours depending on the season or scheduled events.

The property features a 19th-century garden designed with period-appropriate planting patterns that reflect Victorian-era horticultural tastes. This garden provides an uncommon glimpse into what residents cultivated and how they arranged their outdoor spaces.