Today, as a means of preserving this period of history; 30 of the buildings have been restored and moved to Howick Historical Village, where visitors can take a journey back to the middle of the 19th century. See how early settlers lived while you wander among the early New Zealand homes. Step inside to learn about the daily routines and chores of Auckland’s military families, and marvel at the furniture, paintings, and textiles that have survived.
Howick Historical Village is located at Lady Marie Drive, 20 minutes east of Auckland in the suburb of Pakuranga. In addition to visiting by bus or car (free parking is available), it’s also possible to ride the ferry from the Ferry Terminal Building to the port at Half Moon Bay, and hire a taxi for the 5-minute drive.
The village is open most days from morning until mid-afternoon, with the exceptions of Christmas, ANZAC Day, Boxing Day, Good Friday, and New Year’s Day. “Meet the Villagers” Live Days—featuring actors and performers—are typically offered once a month.
Known as the “fencible” British force, the soldiers were given transport and homes and allowed to bring their families—under the agreement that if Auckland were attacked, they’d help defend the city. Read the stories of the individuals and families who lived between these walls, made more poignant by volunteers dressed in period clothing.
