Kinder House, Auckland

The Kinder House, located on historic Ayr Street, is one of Auckland’s oldest and most important buildings. The two storey residence was built as the home of Reverend John Kinder, who is today recognized as one of the city’s most important colonial figures. Kinder immigrated to Auckland in 1855 to take up the post of master at the Church of England Grammar School. As well as for his role as a master, Kinder is also noted as one of New Zealand’s most talented and prolific 19th century artists. The house was built for Kinder and his family (his mother and sister) in 1857 under commission by the Anglican Church.

When Kinder married in 1859 his wife, Celia, came to live in this stone home as well. The historic residence where he spent many happy years was also the subject of much of Kinder’s art and photography attempts. Some of his photos have survived 150 years and are important historical documents today. You can also see much of his art work on display on the ground floor of the historic home. Kinder House is managed by the Kinder House Society and is open to the public Wednesday through to Sunday from 12 to 3pm.