A rich, cultural heritage
Puketutu Island Estate has a rich history dating back to its time as the residence of Sir Henry Kelliher, a noted patron of the arts and philanthropy. The Spanish Mission-style homestead, with its elegant architecture and lush gardens, stands as a testament to the vision of Sir Henry, who lived on the island from the 1950s until his passing in 1991.
The estate, meticulously restored by the Kelliher Charitable Trust in 2007, now serves as one of Aucklandβs most sought-after venues for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. Sir Henryβs legacy is also remembered through the Kelliher Art Awards, which he established in 1956 to support and promote New Zealand artists.
Photograph taken in the 1930s, Puketutu Island. Manukau Harbour.
Te Motu a Hiaroa to Mana Whenua (Puketutu)
Puketutu Island, which lies off the cost of MΔngere, is sacred to the people of Te Kawerau Δ Maki, Te Waiohua and Waikato-Tainui. It was the first permanent home of the crew of the Tainui waka in Aotearoa.
Known as Te Motu a Hiaroa to Mana Whenua, the island was once a quarry. Thousands of tonnes of scoria and basalt rock were removed for construction projects, including the expansion of nearby Auckland Airport. The small island is currently undergoing a major transformation and will one day become a reserve for everyone to enjoy.
In 2012, Watercare bought a lease from the Kelliher Trust and transferred ownership to a trust with 12 iwi trustees. Since then, Watercare has been filling the former quarry with biosolids from the nearby MΔngere Wastewater Treatment Plant, so that by 2049, three small hills will be created (including the current one) to replicate the original cones on the island before it is returned to Aucklanders for enjoyment and use as a public park.
View across waterlily pond to front of Kelliher Estate. Shows architectural details on the house, such as shutters, window decoration, and wraught iron scrollwork above the doorway. 1930s, Puketutu Island. Manukau Harbour.
View across a water lily pond towards a car parked on the drive of Kelliher Estate.
Puketutu Island is a venue where history meets nature, providing a serene, yet sophisticated backdrop for your event. Whether youβre here for a wedding, a corporate retreat, or a private function, you will feel the legacy of the island and the spirit of Sir Henry Kelliher.
Follow us on Instagram
