Anderson Park

Sir Robert Anderson bought a rather neglected 300-acre block in 1910, attracted by the 50 acres of native bush on the property.

The couple had a passion for horticulture and although the property was first a sheep farm, extensive flower gardens were soon developed.

Adding to that is the magnificent homestead, which was built in 1925 at a cost of £10,000 (over $1,250,000, adjusted for inflation).

The house was designed by the Christchurch architect, Cecil Wood, who specialised in the Georgian style.

The roof was clad with slates from Bangor, Wales. In the Dickinson Room (former billiard room) and the Kirkby Room (former library) the fireplaces are Georgian replicas carved from Oamaru stone.

The fireplace in the Deaker Room (former drawing room) has green marble from the West Coast built into its surround. On 22 November 1984 the house was registered as a historic place Category 1 with the Historic Places Trust.

It was Sir Robert’s wish that on his and his wife’s death, the house and grounds, including the block of native bush, be gifted to the city for use as a public park.

The beautiful house has until recently been the home to the Anderson Park Art Gallery Society’s splendid collection of New Zealand Art, which began in 1951. This follows on from Sir Robert’s second passion, his collection of paintings and etchings.

Read more about Anderson House on the Heritage New Zealand website.