Central Tauranga Heritage Study

C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 17. Memorial Park playground soon after it was established. The old favourites of engine and rocket have been replaced with modern play equipment. It contains a children’s playground, a miniature railway, a roller skating rink, a swimming pool and a putting course. A rotary club erected a fountain near the water’s edge. (Date) Faulkner Park This park located off Robins Road (off Waihi Road) is named for the Faulkner family, descendants of trader John Lees Faulkner. Eric Faulkner, great grandson of J.L. Faulkner and his second wife, Elizabeth Humphreys, lived in Montgomery Street. Eric was Mayor of Tauranga from 1977 to 1980. The Elms gardens The tranquil gardens at The Elms, which include many mature trees, are open to the public. The Elms is registered as a Historic Area by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust and in addition the mission house, library, kitchen and dairy are individually registered. The historic buildings and trees are also scheduled in the Tauranga District Plan. Sports Fields The first place used for organised sport was the Tauranga Domain. Originally gifted to the Borough by central government for public gardens, there was no money to develop the site. It was leased for grazing and the conflict between sports and cattle cause some aggravation among residents. The site set aside for a public secondary school, the most northerly part of the Domain, is now a cricket pitch. Rugby and soccer are also played with the Domain. The Tauranga Bowling, croquet and tennis clubs also have grounds there. The Tauranga ladies bowling club, now closed down, had a club house on Cliff road next to the Rose Gardens. Netball/tennis courts were located on the northern side, but petanque is now played there. Memorial park was also used for soccer, but the low lying nature of the ground made it boggy and unsuitable. ADORNING THE CITY As Tauranga’s population was small, and not wealthy, there were few benefactors, except, for example, Sir Robert Owens, who purchased and donated paintings. The Tauranga City Council owns a significant art collection, including carvings, some of which can be seen by the public. The
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 3 7 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y former Trustee Savings Bank/ Trust Bank, now Westpac Trust and the Port of Tauranga also have collections of paintings. The Strand An attempt to improve the look of the waterfront was made in the early 1900s. The Stand was renamed the Edward VII Esplanade, and trees were planted. The original plane trees were soon replaced by trachycarpus palms, protected by substantial cages to prevent the cows which were licensed to graze in the streets from eating them. These palms survived until the early 1960s, when they were replaced by the butya palms. A bequest made to the borough by Sir William Herries led to the creation of gardens, fish pond and an archway at the northern end of The Strand in 1928. Herries Arch and the Floral Steamer form part of the Edward VII Esplanade adjacent to The Strand. About 10 years later, Charles Cameron, then the Borough Gardener, created a floral steamer, mainly from succulents. This was a very popular feature and is remembered fondly by many elderly residents. Cameron, a noted botanist, received the Loder cup in 1958? The recent modernisation of The Strand gardens saw the removal of the pond, associated flower beds and other plantings. The Herries Arch was retained, and the floral steamer, which had been neglected for many years, was very successfully rebuilt. The Edgewater project, the first stage of which was completed in 2004 has enhanced the ambience of The Strand by widening the sidewalks for café tables, modernising the look of The Strand gardens (Ted Smythe, landscape architect) The water spout area for children to play in has been created on the harbour side of the railway line. Sculpture The only depiction of a significant resident is the statue of Canon Charles Jordan in the Domain. Canon Jordan was not only vicar of Holy Trinity, but also served as mayor of Tauranga for 9 years. The statue was erected by Parkinson and Co. monumental masons.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 3 8 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 18. The statue of Canon Charles Jordan in the Tauranga Domain. Tuti Tukaokao was commissioned to produce a fountain for the corner of Spring and Grey Streets. It is in the shape of a gourd, symbolising the giving of water by Maori after the battle of Gate Pa. A sculptural water feature is to be found next to the railway line at the southern end of The Strand Gardens. This was commissioned as a feature in the Spring Street mall, when the paving was re­ done in the 1990s. The original red paving from which sprang the common name of “Red Square” was replaced by blue and white pavers to recreate the effect of running water. The correct name for the Spring Street Mall is the Mid City Mall. The Domain A band rotunda was built in the Domain, but is no longer extant. War Memorial Gates were erected in 1921. They were designed by G.A.Ward and built by Joseph Brain. The gates are scheduled in the District Plan and registered by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 3 9 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Residences Tauranga was not a wealthy settlement, and early residences were typically timber villa type houses. While residential development has steadily progressed over time some examples of early houses still remain in the area around the CBD. Others have been disappeared, through fire, demolition or by being moved from their original sites. Only one of the original homes built by the military settlers remains, John Butler’s house at 65 9 th Avenue. Existing photos show mainly modest weatherboard houses. Until recently the Crabbe family home at 405 Cameron Road was an example of a modest dwelling with a surrounding verandah. Some homes from the early 20 th century remain on Edgecumbe Road, Selwyn Street and the early Avenues. The 1993 Draft Tauranga District Heritage Management Strategy identified a number of houses which were considered to be of heritage value. The bock between Brown Street and Mission Street still contains some good examples of early 20 th century housing. The Brain Watkins house, on the corner of Elizabeth Street and Cameron Road was erected in 1885 by Joseph Brain, a local boat builder. It is now owned by Tauranga Historical Society. The house has a fine collection of historic furniture, fittings, textiles and memorabilia connected to the Brain family. It is open to public on Sunday afternoons. It provides evidence of the residential character along Cameron Road before the introduction of a commercial zone in the 1960s, which has seen the road develop for a range of commercial functions. 19. Brain Watkins house, corner of Cameron Road and Elizabeth Street. Photo taken c. 2004. Taiparoro on Devonport Road is probably the most impressive pre 1900 residence in the inner city. It was built by John Cuthbert Adams, builder, and mayor of Tauranga for his large family. It has recently been converted for use as a Bed and Breakfast business.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 0 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 20. J.C.Adams home, Taiparoro, on Devonport Road, c 1900. th th Taiparirua, also on Devonport Road, between 8 and 9 Avenues, was built by J.A.Mann, who also built the Bond Store on The Strand. 21. Taiparirua, built by J.A.Mann, who also built the Bond Store. The house is situated on Devonport Road. The photo was probably taken when the Rev. Goodyear’s family were living there, c.1910.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 1 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y The Old House 88 7th Avenue. Built by Fitzgibbon Louch, who came out as part of the Katikati Settlement. Originally it was a Boarding house for Maori boys attending the Tauranga Primary School. There are a number of good examples of Arts and Crafts style houses and Art Deco style houses such as that built for Charles Cameron on Devonport Road. Lost heritage Fairlight The substantial house built by Judge H.W.Brabant on 4 th Avenue was accidentally destroyed by fire while under the ownership of F.N.Christian, a prominent garage proprietor. 1860s houses Two houses were built in the vicinity of the Mission Institute by the Revs Baker and Clarke, who were in charge of the educational establishment. One, High Trees, was later occupied by business man E.T.Baker, and later the Patterson family who owned a farm on Motiti island. It was demolished to make way for the car park for the Commercial Travellers club. This has also been demolished for the Kingsview high rise apartment complex. Rev. Clarke’s house was located on the corner of McLean Street and Willow Street; it was demolished to make way for the Salvation Army owned Aspen Eventide Rest Home. It was owned for many years by Colonel Gerard Arnold Ward, one of the proprietors of the Bay of Plenty Times. Henry Tacy Clarke’s house built on the corner of Wharf Street and Willow Street was moved several times, finally coming to rest in Robins Road, Judea.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 2 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Electricity supply Electricity was first supplied by the Tauranga Borough Council who built a small electric generation plant at Omanawa Falls in 1915. In the 1920s, with growth in demand, the Council built a second station at McClauren’s Falls and restricted its distribution to the Borough of Tauranga. The Tauranga Electric Power Board was established to take over the existing reticulation to areas outside the Borough boundaries, and to provide power to the whole of Tauranga County. The Power Board and Council collaborated to build two more hydro­electric power stations on the 13 Wairoa River including the Mangapapa Scheme and the Rauahihi Scheme supply. The Power Board Building in Spring Street represents this theme in the central city. Local government The first local government offices were in the old Mission building on Willow Street. When the new Government buildings were erected in 1874/75 they were housed in that building. After it was destroyed by fire, temporary accommodation was used until the Town Hall was completed in 1916. This was demolished in 1987. 22. Tauranga Town Hall as it was when decorated for the visit of Queen Elizabeth II The Coronation hall was erected in 1911 for the Tauranga County Council. The electricity department provided income for the borough, and a special building was erected in the 1930s to house both the electrical department and the library. The foundation stone for the building Tauranga Council currently occupy was laid on 30 October 1971 by Prime Minister Holyoake. Administration, Professional and trade services Law and order The first organisation responsible for maintaining law and order in the township was the Armed Constabulary. This group inherited several fortified positions from the imperial regiments which left in 1866. One of these, the Monmouth Redoubt, has survived to the present day mainly through its connection with the Armed Constabulary and policing. 14 13 Bay of Plenty Expands, 1965, page 4 14 Rorke, Jinty Policing two peoples: a history of the police in the Bay of Plenty NZ Police/Jinty Rorke 1993
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 3 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y As it became apparent that there was little chance of a Maori uprising, the focus of the Armed Constabulary changed. Many men were occupied building roads, others undertook civil duties. Instead of the old barracks building in the Redoubt, a police station was constructed in 1880 on the corner of Willow and Monmouth Streets. Designed by the Government Architect, it consisted of two four­roomed cottages, a lock­up with three cells, a stable and a store room. New offices were opened in 1937­38, but the original buildings remained in use. After many delays a new large police station was officially opened in 1968 on the Monmouth Street site. A typical 1960s government building, it is still in use today. Courthouse Originally the court hearings had been held in a large room in the Government Buildings, Willow Street, which had originally housed other government departments. By 1965 all that remained were the Ministry of Works and the court. However, a new court house was opened on Cameron Road in 1965. Several lawyers were practising in Tauranga even in the early days of the township. Although none of the offices from which they operated remain, the names of several firms reflect the length of time they have been in existence. For example, Cooney Lees and Morgan and Sharp Tudhope. Fire station. In common with many New Zealand towns, Tauranga had many serious fires in the early years of settlement. Many short­lived attempts were made to establish a volunteer brigade. Equipment purchased was stored by various interested residents. In 1897 a shed was erected on the corner of Willow and Harington Streets to house the fire engine. The first fire station was constructed on the north east corner of the Durham/ Spring Street intersection. The foundation stone of the King George V Coronation Fire Station was laid on 23 15 June 1911. It was completed in February 1912. A 60ft high free standing tower was completed on 30 October 1911. The fire bell was tested on 3 April and “could be heard throughout the borough”. 16 23. The fire station on Durham Street, c. 1914. The existing fire station on Cameron Road built in 1957. 15 16 Foundation stone of the Baptist tabernacle was laid the same day. Bellamy, A.C. Tauranga Fire Brigade Tauranga, 1982
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 4 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y In 1942 the Fire Board began the search for a new site. Allotments 141 and 142 adjoining Thomas Milne’s property at 61 Cameron Road were purchased in1952. The new station opened on 22 June 1957. The architect was Mr V.J.Jenkins. The original fire station was used as offices by the Tauranga Borough Council for some years before it was demolished. Baycourt now stands on the site. Transport and Communications Water transport Initially all communication between Te Papa/Tauranga and the outside world was by sea. Small coastal vessels played an important part in the economic and social life of the settlement. The only visible reminder is the Coronation pier, which as mentioned earlier, is in a poor condition and about to be replaced. The Tauranga Yacht and Power Boat Club used to be based at the southern end of the Strand. The former club rooms are now the Harbourside Restaurant. The rowing club also had a building on the shore just to the south of the Matapihi rail bridge. The Sulphur Point and the Bridge marinas reflect the importance of recreational water use. Remaining Heritage Old Yacht Club building, now Harbourside Restaurant Land Transport Several “livery and bait stables provided horse for tourists and other travellers wishing to proceed to Rotorua. These were situated on Spring Street and Devonport Road, but no signs of the buildings remain. A coach also made the link between this township and Rotorua, but again no visible structure remains to indicate where this was based. Later service cars took passengers over the Kaimai, to Katikati and to Rotorua. An Aard booking office can be seen in early photos at the base of the Town wharf. Nothing remains of this structure. Railways The Matapihi rail bridge was first used in June 1924. The link to Auckland via Waihi and Frankton opened in 1928. The railway line still passes along The Strand. The rail bridge is an important landscape feature. Air The Waikareao estuary was used as a landing place in the 1930s. Kingsford Smith landed there, and the mudflats were used by the first aero club members. A hangar was built at the western end of Elizabeth Street. This was later used as a Boy Scout Hall, but was dismantled. The Takitimu Expressway now covers the place where landings took place. The aerodrome at Mount Maunganui came into use in 1939.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 5 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 24. Charles Kingsford­Smith’s Southern Cross on the Waikareao estuary in 1933. Health services Hospitals Land was set aside for a hospital in Tauranga in 1879 on the south west side of the Cameron Road 17 Avenue intersection. No action was taken towards erecting a building and private hospitals and nursing homes took carte of the towns needs for some time. In 1885 the Bay of Plenty Hospital and Charitable Aid Board was formed, Before a permanent hospital was built in 1914, a variety of buildings and even tents served as temporary fever hospitals in times of emergency. The failed “Yorkshire Grey” hotel on the corner of Cameron Road and 6 th Avenue was used on several occasions. th The hospital, built outside the borough boundary south of 17 Avenue, was extended in 1922. It remains on this site. Private hospitals These were generally run from private homes, and functioned as maternity hospitals. Two houses on Cameron Road were used in this way, one run by Mrs Vi Simons, and another by Nurse Chappell. Another house on 11 th Avenue and Waimarie on Brown Street were also private maternity hospitals. Oakland Hospital in Thirteenth Ave is surrounded by substantial historic trees, which are included in the schedule of notable trees in the District Plan. Cambrae was established on Edgecumbe Road by two nursing sisters after World War II. It was demolished recently.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 6 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 25. Thornecliffe Hospital, Edgecumbe Road. Retirement Homes Tauranga has perhaps more than its fair share of retirement homes. Several lie within the area of this study: the long established Cedar Manor, whose reception area is part of the old Maungawhare home in Otumoetai; The Palms on Devonport Road a converted house, and the newly built The Avenues home. Remaining Heritage Waimarie, Private Hospital, Brown Street. Built by the Walmsley family in the 1880s, it was briefly used as a bottle museum. It is now a lawyer’s office. Lost Heritage Cambrae (later Thorncliffe) Private Hospital on Edgecumbe Road, now demolished.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 7 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Theme II – The built city Overview and Discussion What places related to this theme/sub­theme are currently identified? Are there other places which may be important? Are there recommendations for potential management or future research? This theme pulls together a number of strands that have seen Tauranga established and consolidated over time as an urban centre. These include surveying and laying out the military settlement, creating infrastructure and laying the foundations of urban life for the community. A number of sub­themes have been considered under this broad heading. Early Development of Commercial areas: The Strand and CBD Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: Bond Store and Guinness Store Building (1886), 1 The Strand St Amand Hotel (1916), 105 The Strand Potential Management/ Further possible research: The Strand was the location of the first businesses in Tauranga, initially clustered at the junction of Wharf Street. While the Bond Store and St Armand Hotel have been identified as being of heritage value, there are other remaining buildings along The Strand which were constructed in the early 1900s and contribute to the authentic/established character of The Strand and reinforce understanding of this part of the city as the location of its earliest businesses. The existing small scale and building forms provide evidence of the early relationship to the harbour and an attractive pedestrian scale along the waterfront in Tauranga. Recognition of the collective historic character of this precinct is considered important, encouraging the retention of early remaining buildings. Public open spaces and gardens Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: Monmouth Redoubt7 Cliff Road The Elms Mission station and historic buildings The Domain, including the War Memorial Gates (also registered by NZHPT), and Canon Jordan statue Potential Management/ Further possible research: Historic structures including the Begonia House and arbour along the cliff top, within Robbins Park and its formal landscaping should be recognised as significant and managed appropriately through a reserve management plan. Edward VII Esplanade and Herries Park as a whole including the Matariki pou and other artworks such as the Floral steamer should be recognised. Adorning the city While Tauranga has a range of memorials and public artworks currently only two of these have been included in the Heritage Register Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: Canon Jordan statue in the Domain Herries Park Memorial, The Strand Potential Management/ Further possible research: To be consistent consideration should be given to the inclusion of other memorials and artworks in the central area in the Heritage Register. Research on the war memorials in Memorial Park should be gathered for potential inclusion in the district plan heritage register A database on public artworks should be formed and assessment by iwi and appropriate specialists as to whether these artworks should be recognised in the heritage register.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 8 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Residences Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: The Elms Mission House and grounds, 15 Mission Street St Peters Manse, 136 Spring Street The Old House (Former Native Hostel/ School) 83 Seventh Ave Taiparoro (dwelling) 11 Fifth Ave Brain Watkins House, 233 Cameron Road Crabbe House, 405/ 407 a Cameron Road Potential Management/ Further possible research: There are other examples of early houses in the study area. A number of these are included in the inventory Heritage Management Strategy (1993). Research gathered on two of these reveals important historic associations and potential inclusion on the Heritage Register is recommended: 44 Brown Street, built c 1873 , residence of William Walmsley, librarian and one of Tauranga’s early residents, later used as a maternity home. 8 Eighth Ave, Taiparirua, which has important associations with James Alexander Mann who is thought to have built the house in 1881. It is also associated with the Rev. William Goodyear (1850­ 1914), the last missionary sent out to New Zealand by the Anglican Church Missionary Society. Future research could be carried out on other remaining houses which are listed in the 1993 Heritage inventory e.g.: 18 Edgecumbe Ave, which was the home of Bill Mountford c 1935 and said to have been built to plans prepared by his daughter Dorothy who was the second woman to have graduated with a Bachelor of Architecture in New Zealand. 20 Second Ave, timber cottage now used as a shop Photographs taken of these places and held at the Tauranga Library contain some basic information in some cases, and the 1993 inventory is based on a visual survey to record surviving early houses in central Tauranga. Residential areas were surveyed and subdivided in the 1860s as part of the settlement for the militia. Residential sections between Fourth Ave and Eleventh Ave were known as the “Quarter Acres”. Redevelopment and infill housing has changed the pattern of development in these streets however many retain an attractive established residential character. Typically the age and style of houses varies. Aspects such as generous grass verges, mature street trees and homes set back with landscaped front yards creates a consistent landscaped/open character. In some parts of the study area much larger/ more intensive residential development has occurred creating a more transitional character. District Plan provisions do not currently control such things as fence heights. In some areas it is evident how new development varies significantly, for example built right up to the street boundary and filling the site to a greater degree than neighbouring older housing development. Consideration could be given to undertaking an urban design/ character analysis of residential areas to fine tune residential zone provisions to retain and enhance existing residential character. Research is recommended on early State houses in Fraser Street Research is recommended on the State housing complex in Cameron Road between Nineteenth and Twentieth Aves Research is recommended on Beazely Homes which was a significant producer of housing in the Tauranga area in the post­ War period when the population expanded. Research is recommended on Post World War II / Recent housing. Research has been undertaken as part of this study on architectural practices which have made a significant contribution to
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 4 9 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Tauranga’s built environment. Practices such Denniston Hodgson and Turner have designed numerous houses which have won New Zealand Institute of Architects Waikato Bay Of Plenty architectural awards. A list of some of these is included in the appendices. Further research could be carried out to identify housing which has won architectural awards in the broader area, to consider as “heritage of the future”. Infrastructure/ Administration/ Transport and Communications: One of the most significant places associated with administration and establishment of communications and infrastructure in the central study area is the former Government Building/Old Post Office on the corner of Harrington Street and Willow Street. The CBD retains other significant buildings associated with this theme including the 1939 Telephone Exchange and Post Office on the corner of Grey Street and Spring Street, the Tauranga Electric Power Board Building in Spring Street and the NZI building which was the home of the first radio station in Tauranga 1ZD which was one of the first regional radio stations in the Bay of Plenty. These places reflect the consolidation and growth of the centre and provision of services required by its expanding population. The construction of the East Coast Main Trunk Railway between 1910­1928 has had a significant effect on the landscape, ongoing development and function of Tauranga. Research carried out on The Cargo shed on Dive Crescent supports its consideration for inclusion on the Heritage Register. Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: Government Building/ Old Post Office, 41 Harrington Street Potential Management/ Further possible research: The following places were identified in the 1993 Heritage Management Strategy. Research undertaken as part of this study supports consideration of their inclusion on the Heritage Register: Former Electric Power Board building, Spring Street Former Post Office, Grey Street and Spring Street Former NZI Building, Spring Street The Cargo Shed Future research could be carried out on the Tauranga Fire Station which was designed by architect Norman Jenkins and built in Cameron Road in 1957. Future research could be carried out on the 1960s Police building, designed by the Government architects and a recognisable feature of many New Zealand cities from this period. Future research could be carried out on the Rail Bridge Health services A number of retirement homes /villages are located within the study area. This is a building type which has recently become a significant feature of the central area. Future research could be gathered on key examples of the type, such as The Avenues Retirement Apartment complex, which covers an entire city block.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 0 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y T HEM E II I – IN DUST RY AND CO MM ERCE The harbour and port The sheltered inner harbour attracted Maori to the area. It provided food and safe communication. The harbour has always played a central role in the life of the settlement. From the time of the missionaries Tauranga was the gateway to the hinterland of the central North Island. Both visitors and supplies arrived from Auckland by sea. The lure of the thermal wonders of the Rotorua district, particularly the Pink and White terraces ensured a steady number of tourists arriving in Tauranga, who had to stay overnight and hire horses for the onward journey. Several hotels opened on The Strand to provide accommodation: the Masonic Hotel built about 1865 was demolished in 198? It is now a car park. The Tauranga Hotel was burned down twice, once in 1881, again in 1936. The Art Deco style 1930s building is now largely hidden under the façade of the Grumpy Mole. The Commercial Hotel burned down in 1916, and was rebuilt. The name was changed to the St Amand in the 1950s, it is now a Backpackers. The Star Hotel, which was the most up market of the early hotels, was built in 1881. The hotel had its own gas manufacturing plant. It was demolished in 1984 along with other early buildings along eastern Spring Street. 26. The town wharf showing a variety of vessels lying alongside in the 1920s. After the railway link was made between Auckland and Rotorua, tourism declined. Tauranga residents had always wanted to visit the Mount Maunganui side of the harbour for picnics, camping and fishing. When the railway yards opened in 1910, there was call for a regular ferry service. This was established in 1913 by a descendant of trader John Lees Faulkner. Faulkner’s Ferries were a long established institution which ceased only after the road bridge linked the two sides of the harbour in 1988.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 1 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 27. Faulkner’s ferries make an impressive sight crossing Tauranga harbour in the 1950s. Tauranga residents always had high hopes for the settlement, even in the 1880s imagining it as a mighty port. However, initially shipping was mainly small ships carrying goods and passengers to and from Auckland. The circuitous entrance was difficult for ships of any size, and the SS Taupo went aground on Stony Point in 1879. In 1912 the Tauranga Harbour Board was gazetted, with responsibility for the two wharves. Changes were afoot, however, with the railway project underway at Mount Maunganui. Delayed by World War I, the reclamations on The Strand, and the subsequent construction of the railway wharves at the southern end of Dive Crescent did not take place until the early 1920s. When Tauranga harbour was chosen over Whakatane as the site for the main export port for the Bay of Plenty in the early 1950s, the economic future of Tauranga was ensured. However, because the main wharves had to be established near the entrance, shipping using the Tauranga wharves declined. 28. The Bank of Australasia stands proud on the corner of Wharf and Willow Street c 1912.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 2 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y There was less division than now between retail and light industry. Garages to service and sell the new motor cars were located among the shops on Devonport Road, and a coal gas plant was built on Grey Street in 1909, with the gasometer located on land between Devonport Road and Grey Streets, Maxwell’s bakery was located on The Strand with a brick baker’s oven behind the store. Hall’s soft drink factory operated on the corner of Grey and Spring Streets until the 1940s. At least two carrying companies operated from Spring Street and Grey Street. Until the advent of the motor car a stables was located on the corner of The Strand and Spring Street. 29. Hall’s cordial factory on the corner of Grey and Spring Streets in 1938 Remaining Heritage Bond store, The Strand built by J.A.Mann. Teasey’s garage, Northern Star building Lost heritage Harbour board building previously at northern end of Strand Maxwell’s baker’s oven Wrigley’s brewery Hall’s cordial factory Shops and offices In the 1870s the focus was on The Strand, because goods brought in from Auckland were unloaded on the wharves close to the stores. The lower portion of Devonport Road was also part of the commercial area, with residential buildings more prevalent nearer to Elizabeth Street. Perhaps the most imposing commercial building in early Tauranga was the Triangle Buildings, erected in 1911 by Norris and Bell. Located at the northern end of Devonport Road, it occupied a triangular space previously a sea cliff, bounded on one side by Devonport Road and the other by The Strand extension.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 3 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 30. Opening of the multi­storey bay Saving Bank building in 1975. The building had the first escalator in the Bay of Plenty. Two impressive buildings, both of which housed draper’s stores, flanked the start of Willow Street at its southern end. Dagley’s building still exists, but the stately Economic Drapers has been replaced by a modern building. 31. Spring Street in 1982, showing the former Dagley building in the centre left. Devonport Road developed further in the first half of the 20 th century, with more retail business established. A number of these buildings dating from the 1920s and 30s still remain in the lower part of Devonport Road
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 4 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 32. The Royal Arcade, which still remains in Devonport Road, in 1926 soon after it was completed. Auckland Provincial Trade Directory for 1951­52 shows the full range of business activity going on in the central city including auctioneers, beauty salons, boot and shoe retailers, builders, butchers, cake shops, carriers, china and glassware retailers, coal and wood dealers, garages, paint and varnish merchants, and plumbers. Significant developments in the 1950s and 1960s which saw a consolidation of Tauranga’s commercial core included the development of the deep­water port at Mt Maunganui in the 1950s, the construction of the airport (completed July 1967), proposed harbour bridge and the construction of the Kaimai Tunnel enabling a more direct rail connection to and from Tauranga, and an enormous expansion of pine forest industries at Kinleith and Kawerau. Considerable industrial and commercial expansion led to an expansion in population and residential areas. Around the same time there was a period of expansion in the city centre, with a number of more substantial commercial buildings constructed.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 5 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Sketch of Proposed Harbour development in Tauranga printed in a promotional brochure in the 1950s.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 6 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Top: Public Trust (left) Federated Farmers (right) Centre Government Life Building (left) Power Board Building (right) Bottom Churchill Building (left) NZI Building (right) New building for Auckland Glass Ltd, designed by Ian Reynolds.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 7 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 33. Spring Street Tauranga in 1958, showing the Electric Power Board, New Zealand Insurance Building and Federated Farmers Building. The Ladies Rest Rooms and Foresters’ hall are in the gap between the Tauranga Electric Power Board building on the left and the stately columned building of NZ Insurance Company in the centre. 34. Spring Street in 1963 before the mall was created. The Regent Cinema can be seen on the right.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 8 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 35. Spring Street 1974, after the creation of the mall. Some fifty years later it was impossible to buy a loaf of bread in the city centre. Most stores retailing household necessities had moved out to the suburbs or along Cameron Road. Some speciality food shops are returning to the centre, but hardware stores, petrol stations and even homeware stores are hard to find. Cameron Road th Mr Crabbe established a store in the Quarter Acres on the corner of 7 Avenue and Cameron Road to serve the southern end of the borough in the 1870s. A general store known as Faulkner’s Store was established at the 11 th Avenue/Cameron Road intersection in 1922 by a descendant of early trader John Lees Faulkner. This general store business became a supermarket, the first in Tauranga. Faulkner’s pharmacy, no longer run by the family, keeps the family name before the public. th 36. Faulkner’s store on 11 Avenue in the 1920s.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 5 9 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y th 37. The Junction service station at 11 Avenue/ Waihi Road intersection in 1929. 38. Crabbe’s store (two storey building on the left) and the family home on the right in the Quarter Acres, c.1900. The1969 District Scheme shows all lots bordering Cameron Road designated for commercial use. Gradually they have been occupied by retail shops, but as it is a busy road, there is little pedestrian traffic. Car yards, supermarkets, large furniture and curtain retail stores, The Warehouse, the post office, and other speciality businesses to which people drive are located along the length of Cameron Road.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 0 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 39. Cameron Road in the late 1950s or early 1960s.It is evident in this photo that Cameron Road was still characterised by a mix of residential development as well as some commercial development at this stage. The commercial zoning along the road introduced in 1969 has steadily intensified the commercial character along the road. View of Cameron Road in 1960s. Auckland Public Library
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 1 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Tauranga suffered a population explosion in the late 1950s and 1960s because of the establishment of port at Mount Maunganui. With limited space for development at the northern tip of the peninsula, commercial development expanded along Cameron Road. Roads into the district improved in order to accommodate the movement of export goods to the port. st Much later businesses moved to Cameron Road, though Chas Crabbe, one of the 1 Waikato th Militia, had a shop at 7 Avenue. The Crabbe store is now located on the playing fields at Tauranga Boys’ college. Remaining Heritage Shops on Grey Street e.g. Northern Star building, Teasey’s garage. Dagley’s building, corner Willow and Spring Streets. Lost Heritage Triangle buildings Economic Drapery Agriculture and horticulture The favourable growing conditions around Tauranga encouraged horticulture. In 1892 steps were taken to establish a Fruit Growers Association. Although Tauranga had several market gardens from as early as the 1880s, none were situated in the central area. Booths market gardens, which grew a huge variety of fruit and vegetables, were located on the road out to Hairini. Properties at Otumoetai also grew fruit and vegetables. The mild climate and fertile soil led to the establishment in 1906 of a government funded experimental farm on Botanical Road. However, in the early part of the 20 th century a Chinese family used part of what is now Memorial Park, on the corner of Devonport Road and 11 th Avenue as a market garden. The area became noted for citrus production, lemons being the main product until disease necessitated the destruction of many orchards in the 1940s. A citrus processing factory was th situated on Norris Street, but was destroyed by fire in 1946. Another factory was built on 12 Avenue, but became a bowling alley in the 1980s.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 2 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 40. Grading lemons in the 1940s. Citrus growing was an important part of the local economy. Remaining Heritage Loan and Mercantile store, Harrington Street, now restaurant. Accommodating visitors Hotels and Boarding Houses From the earliest days of the settlement provision of accommodation for visitors was of great importance. Advertisements for hotels and boarding houses appear in the earliest issues of the Bay of Plenty Times (1872). However, the earliest hotel, the Masonic, may have been built about 1865; one of the few existing copies of the Tauranga Argus (Dec 1866) has an advert calling for tenders for an extension to the Masonic Hotel. Fires ravaged the early wooden buildings. In 1881 and again in 1936 the Tauranga Hotel burned down. The Commercial Hotel (now the St Amand) was destroyed in 1916 by a fire that damaged almost the whole block of The Strand between Spring Street and Wharf Street. Probably the most prestigious hotel was The Star, completed in 1881. It was mainly of brick, unusual in early Tauranga, and had its own gas plant for gas lighting, making it unique in the township. Unfortunately this building was demolished in 1984, to make way for the new Mid City Mall development.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 3 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 41. The Star Hotel, Devonport Road and Spring Street pre 1910. The remains of the higher land at the northern end of Devonport Road are visible to the left of the building. This is where the Triangle Building was erected in 1911. Bellevue House (1882), built by James Bodell, had as a point of difference that it was a Temperance Hotel. The building survived well into the 20 th century, but is now a car yard. Many enterprising individuals opened boarding houses in the town centre. These were usually short lived, and none survive. One of these, the Victoria Hotel, was operated by James Morrison, ancestor of famous entertainer Howard Morrison. James moved his family to Rotorua in 1878, to open the Ohinemutu Hotel, but died shortly thereafter. Hotels Willow Park Motor Hotel was built in 1970 was seen as a major step forward for the tourist industry. More recently Devonport Towers and the Trinity Wharf hotel and conference centre on Dive Crescent have provided upmarket accommodation in the downtown area. A new hotel is planned on the TV 3 site on the corner of Durham Street and Wharf Street. Motels There are many motels in the area under study. One of the earliest “Strand Motels” is situated on the corner of McLean Street, continuing the tradition of the waterfront as the main focus of the town. Rest Rooms Nowadays when we expect clean public toilets to be part of every down town area, it’s hard to imagine how visitors to town survived without them. However, it took a major campaign in the 1930s to achieve a Ladies’ Rest Room in Spring Street. It was opened in 1936, and considered so important that it had a visitors’ book for users to sign. Unfortunately it no longer exists. The site was sold for $265,000 in 1989. 17 17 BOP Times 25 July 1989
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 4 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y The Maori Hostel In 1873 the first Maori hostel was built on a quarter acre site on The Strand. This was demolished and replaced by a new hostel in 1902­3, designed by the Public Works Department district engineer, C.R. Vickerman. The purpose of the hostel was to provide overnight accommodation for Maori, who lived on Motiti and Tuhuna (White Island) Islands, who came to Tauranga for provisions. (The hostel was located on The Strand where the community centre was built by the Tauranga Moana District Maori Council.) Remaining Heritage St Amand, originally the Commercial Tauranga Hotel – now Grumpy Mole, with Western­style façade Lost Heritage Star Hotel – demolished 1984 Bellevue Private Hotel corner Wharf Street and Cameron Road – demolished. Ladies’ Rest Room, Spring Street Theme III – Industry and Commerce Overview and discussion What places related to this theme are currently identified? Are there other places that may be of value? Are there recommendations for potential management or future research? Currently very few places related to the working commercial life of central Tauranga have been included in the Heritage Register. Buildings in the central commercial business district represent a substantial investment in terms of building stock and infrastructure. They provide evidence of the early development of the commercial heart of Tauranga and how it has consolidated as the surrounding population expanded. A number of buildings have associations with individuals, businesses and organisations that have been important in Tauranga. Others provide evidence of commercial services which are a recognisable part of many New Zealand town centres­such as the post office, public trust office and NZI Insurance office. A number of these buildings are identified in the 1993 Heritage Management Strategy as being of value. Research carried out as part of this study supports consideration of some individual buildings in the Heritage Register. Central Tauranga also retains intact groups of mainstreet retail and commercial buildings, particularly in lower Devonport Road which demonstrate the expansion of the commercial area particularly during the 1920s and 30s. They are typical of retail and commercial buildings built in many New Zealand towns and cities in this period and a number are designed by architects who were important in Tauranga. Collectively these places make a very important contribution to the established character of the central area and contribute positively to an attractive pedestrian scaled retail precinct in Tauranga. Intact groups of early twentieth century buildings on the Strand similarly give Tauranga an authentic established built character, and clearly show the earlier relationship to the harbour and location of early hotels in this part of the CBD. These groups of places are also identified in the Heritage Management Strategy 1993. Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: Bond Store and Guinness Store Building (1886), 1 The Strand St Armand Hotel (1916), 105 The Strand Potential Management/ Further possible research: Research undertaken as part of this study supports consideration of inclusion on the Heritage Register of the following places: Former 1939 Post Office, corner Grey Street and Spring Street Former Public Trust building, Grey Street Former NZI Building, Spring Street Former Electric Power Board Building,Spring Street The Cargo Shed Consideration could be given to the development of a character heritage overlay in parts of Devonport Road, Willow Street and The Strand to recognise the collective character of these areas. The intention would not be to freeze built development, but to encourage the retention of existing character buildings, and to encourage redevelopment that responds positively to these areas.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 5 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Further research could be carried out on additional commercial buildings in the CBD including: Offices for AMP awarded an NZIA Branch award, designed by Denniston Hodgson architects,1980 Devonport Road.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 6 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y T HEM E IV – REL AT IO NSHIPS W IT H NAT UR AL ENVIRO NM ENT Natural events Tarawera eruption 1886 – ash fell on Tauranga. Skies dark and schools closed. Edgecumbe earthquake 1987 – not much damage Ruapehu eruption 1993– small amount of ash fell Flooding 1960s – the flooding problem in the central area has been addressed and is no longer a problem. Heritage Landscapes Mauao Although Mauao is located at the north western tip of the Mount Maunganui isthmus, the view of Mauao has always been considered to symbolise Tauranga for people of all races. Views toward Mauao have already been changed and compromised from several key locations. The industrial development on the Sulphur Point reclamation has significantly altered views towards Mauao from the mission grounds. The proposed flyover from Takitimu Drive to the enlarged harbour bridge will have further negative impacts on this very important heritage landscape. 42. Looking towards the iconic shape of Mauao, (Mount Maunganui) across Sulphur Point. It is clear from the early Bay of Plenty Times that residents were attracted by the sight of Mauao (at that time referred to as Mount Maunganui, or the Mount). The difficulty of access made it all the more appealing, and special trips were undertaken at holiday times. The harbour bridge, constructed in 1988, had a significant impact on views of Mauao from The Strand.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 7 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 43. Cameron Road c. 1900. Mauao can be seen over the trees. Upper harbour views The proposed improvement of the walking track alongside the Matapihi rail bridge will allow more people to appreciate the view of the hills behind Welcome Bay. Interpretation would add to appreciation of the outstanding views of the harbour in this location. 44. The salt water baths just south of the Matapihi rail bridge, 1940s. Waikareao estuary The Waikareao estuary is of great significance to Ngaitamarawaho of Huria. There is a view of the estuary from many places on the eastern edge of the peninsula, including the Tauranga Domain. The walkway which runs around the estuary is attractive on the Otumoetai side, but on the Te Papa peninsula it is narrow, and runs next to Takitimu Drive, exposing walkers to traffic fumes and noise.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 8 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y 45. The Waikareao estuary. in 1892. 46 Opening of the Waikareao Expressway, now Takitimu Drive, Theme IV – Relationships with Natural Environment Overview and Discussion The district plan identifies significant views to be protected in the central area down Harrington, Hamilton, Wharf and Spring Streets to the water. Views towards Mauao have always been considered important. Interpretive signage within The Elms grounds provides historic images of this important view from key vantage points within the grounds. Views of surviving landforms in the central area are also considered important for example: Views from Dive Cres towards the Monmouth Redoubt and the cliffs beneath Cliff Road. Views up towards the cliff face below the Elms site from roads below Views over the Waikareao Estuary from the Domain are not easily obtainable with current location of parking on the access roadway which runs adjacent to the cliff top. Access for walking/ looking out is restricted. Views towards the harbour on both sides of the peninsula are obtained from the ends of many of the Avenues. Potential Management/ Further possible research: Further investigation of significant views around the central area could be carried out to consider the potential for future development to limit or obscure and whether any additional view protection shafts should be added to the district plan.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 6 9 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y T HEM E V – CUL T URAL EXPRESSIO NS Te Puawaitanga – Cultural Development and Expression Following the land confiscations the resettlement of local Maori on reserves often meant they were not close or accessible to the town and its facilities. As already mentioned there no reserves at Te Papa. As such a Maori hostel was established in the CBD for travelling individuals and groups. The Maori Hostel, sometimes referred to as Motiti Hostel, probably due to people from Motiti Island was in operation between 1878 to 1956. xxvii The Hostel is clearly shown on early maps of the town. The block of land was gazetted as reserve for Maori community centre in 1963 and was an amalgamation of four blocks Allotments 2, 3, 6 and 7 of section 1 of Tauranga. xxviii Memorials A number of memorials are present in the city including a memorial to fallen warriors at the Battle of Te Ranga (June 1864) and Hori Ngatai. A large stone plinth has been erected to commemorate the memory of these 13 men from Whakatohea and other tribes. This stone plinth replaces a previous garden and small plaque. At Memorial Park a large war memorial recognises men who have lost their lives in confrontations and war. Maori Businesses The Tauranga Moana Trust Board established in 1981, to receive compensation for the land wars and confiscations is located on land set aside as a reserve for Maori community Centre. The Trust Board has been responsible for land administration, scholarships, training and representation. The Ngati Ranginui Incorporated Society moved from its small house office in 8 th Avenue during the mid 1990s and has occupied the first level of McLean House on McLean St since that time.. The iwi office provides asset management, social services and representation for Ngati Ranginui people. Moana Media Communications is the parent company of Moana AM and Tahi FM radio broadcast stations. This broadcast company has occupied the CBD since 2002 having been located upstairs at 3 Harrington Street till moving to its current offices upstairs at 15­17 Wharf St. Te Puni Kokiri, Ministry of Maori Development is currently located at 174, Eleventh Avenue, (cnr of Christopher Street) however occupied a number of Tauranga CBD offices. These included the current Police Station on Durham Street, however at that time it was known by various names during government re­structuring, the Department of Maori Affairs, Maori Transition Agency and Manatu Maori. Between 1994 and 2004, Te Puni Kokiri was located on level 7, Harringtons House and for a short time occupied a small office on Harrington Street. Te Awanui, housed in a purpose built urunga on The Strand. There have been two waka taua (war canoes) occupying the CBD waterfront. The first of these is ‘Te Awanui’, launched at Memorial Park in 1973, now located at the Strand opposite the Tauranga Moana Trust Board. The launching of the waka was held at Memorial Park and attended by thousands of onlookers. It is housed in a purpose built ‘urunga’ or shelter opened in December 1975. Both the shelter and the waka were gifted to the City of Tauranga by the Tauranga Maori Cultural and Promotional Committee.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 0 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y The second waka is the ‘Takitimu’, a fibre glass hulled waka taua that was constructed at short notice for the 1990 Treaty of Waitangi anniversary celebrations. The builder and carver Tuti Tukaokao built the waka in a shed on Dive Crescent, the present Cargo Shed. This was his carving shed and a popular destination for Maori artists. The waka is now housed is a waka urunga at Waikaraka estuary, Te Puna. In September 1987 the former town hall was occupied by Ngai Tamarawaho and Maori supporters th as part of protests against the sale of the property and to bring attention to issues regarding 19 th xxix xxx and 20 Century alienation of Maori land. The occupation lasted for some 50 hours . Toi Maori ­ Public Art Several pieces of Public art have been produced by local Maori artists and are located in the CBD. As already mentioned a carved representation of Taiwhanake can be found in the foyer of the Tauranga District Council on Willos Street. On the corner of Spring and Grey Streets is a large stone calabash. Carved by Tuti Tukaokao of Ngai Tamarawaho and completed in September 1995, the calabash can be associated with two traditions. One is the events following the Battle of Gate Pa where water was given by one of the pa occupants to an injured Colonel Booth. This act of chivalry is accredited to either on two individuals, Heni Pore (Heeni Te Karamuramu), the only woman warrior at Gate Pa battle or Rawiri Puhirake a chief of Ngaiterangi. He had on his person a proverb from Romans, ‘if thine enemy should thirst give him water’. This rules of engagement were well­known and formed part of invitations to Colonel Greer before the confrontation at Gate Pa. The other tradition relates to the taking of water from a local spring by a virgin xxxi . Stone Calabash carved by Tuti Tukaokao at left and Te Kahui Matariki at right. A more recent piece is a series of seven timber carvings representing Te Kahui Matariki, seven sisters of Matariki (Pleides) which symbolise the Maori New Year around June/July. 1 Te Kahui Matariki – Tiheru and Tautaru 2 Tupu a Nuku 3 Tupu a Rangi 4 Waita 5 Waiti 6 Waipane a Rangi 7 Ururangi
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 1 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y European Religion and Spirituality Although it was the establishment of a military settlement that can be credited with the foundation of the city of Tauranga, the fact remains that the first European settlers here were missionaries, who came to spread the Christian message to the south of the original mission stations in the Bay of Islands. Anglican As may be expected, people belonging to various religious denominations grouped together for worship from the beginning of the township. At first Archdeacon A.N.Brown took services in the mission chapel but by January 1872 an Anglican vicar, Canon Charles Jordan, had arrived in the town. Holy Trinity church was consecrated in 1875. It was designed by local resident and architect A.W.Burrows, and erected by builder J.C.Adams, later mayor of Tauranga 1917­1919. The church land stretched between 3 rd and 4th Avenues, with a frontage on Devonport Road. No vicarage was 18 provided. Holy Trinity, registered by NZHPT as a category II building, burned down on 30 June 1999. The first service in the new church took place in June 2003. This building should be considered for future heritage status. Presbyterian St Peters Presbyterian Church is located on the south west corner of the Cameron Road and Spring Street intersection. Construction began on the original, kauri church in June 1878. The 19 builder was David Lundon, mayor of Tauranga 1887­1888. In 1963 this building was moved from 20 its original site, and a new church built. St Peter’s Manse remains adjacent to the church and is scheduled in the District Plan. Methodist In 1881 title was issued to a piece of land on the south east corner of 1 st Avenue and Devonport Road, where a kauri church, designed by G. Arnold Ward and built by James J.Bennett. By 1950 a st bigger building was required, and rather than extend on the 1 Avenue site, a new church was built 18 Holy Trinity Church, Tauranga: Centennial celebrations 1875­1975. Photo News May 1963 p 7 Foundation stone laid 20 The centennial history of St Peters Presbyterian church, 1878­1978
19 T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 2 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y th on 13 Avenue in 1958, designed by architects Haughey and Fox. In 1959 the old church was dismantled and moved to Lake Rotoma where it was used for church youth camps. 21 46. The first Methodist Church on Devonport Road, c 1900. Roman Catholic The first Catholic presence was at Otumoetai. Here a presbytery and church were built near the populous Otumoetai pa. In 1868 a shingle roofed wooden presbytery built there in 1844 was shifted to a site on Cameron Road. It was demolished in the 1940s. In 1871 a church was built on Cameron Road. It was square, and used as a school room more than a church. A detached belfry was built in 1874 and the Otumoetai church bell installed there until it was removed to Te Puna in the early 1900s. The square church was in use until 1887, when it was moved back on the site to make room for a new church. In 1950 it was moved to St Mary’s school, 13 th Avenue where it was known as Pompallier Hall. In 1987 it was shifted again, to the Historic Village. 22 A new St Mary’s Catholic Church was built on the corner of Cameron Road and First Ave. The 1887 church was designed by E. Mahoney in the gothic revival style, and built by Mannix Bros. 23 By 1955 it was too small, and was moved closer to 1 st Avenue to allow a new church to be erected. This brick building, opened in January 1956, was designed by Edward Pipe and built by William Edkins. It was extended in 1990/91, when the 1887 church was moved out to Bethlehem College. Baptist Church The Tauranga Baptist church was erected on Cameron Road in 1911. It was sponsored by Auckland Baptists, and the material sent by schooner from Auckland. It served until 1967 when a 21 Harpham, Lynne The people called Methodists Tauranga, 1981 Brooks, Patricia By the name of Mary: Tauranga Catholic Church 1840 – 2000. Tauranga, Catholic Church, 2000 23 BOP Times 30 April 1887
22 T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 3 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y th new church was opened on the corner of 13 Avenue and Cameron Road. The building served various commercial purposes until it was moved to the Historic Village in 17 th Avenue. Remaining Heritage The Te Papa Mission Station now known as The Elms (Scheduled and registered) St Mary’s Catholic Church, Cameron Road St Peter’s Manse Potential future Heritage Holy Trinity Church Lost Heritage Methodist Church St Peter’s Presbyterian Church Arts and Culture When the population of the borough was less than 1,000, meetings took place in a variety of places: rooms in hotels, church halls, the Foresters Hall. The town hall became the central focus from 1916. It served as a cinema, dance hall, exhibition hall and theatre. Use changed gradually: purpose built cinemas took over (the Regent and the Odeon), dances and balls became less popular, and private functions were held in community halls or commercial premises. As lighting and costume requirements became more sophisticated, both local and visiting theatre companies began to demand better conditions for their performances. Baycourt In 1973 the Tauranga Community Arts Council began the task of achieving a modern Arts and Community Centre. This vision came into being in 1983, when Baycourt was opened by Prince Charles and Princess Diana. The Christchurch firm of Warren and Mahoney won the Waikato Bay of Plenty branch of the New Zealand Institute of Architects 1983 award in the cultural and entertainment category for the building that was erected on the corner of Durham and Wharf Street, where the fire station had once stood. Art Gallery An art gallery is under construction on the corner of Wharf and Willow Streets. Museum The first museum in Tauranga was established in the Mechanics Institute in 1881, with gifts of items for display including South Sea Island weapons and photos of the Hot Lakes District by Charles Spencer. In April 1938 a museum and gallery were opened in the town hall. A decision to build a museum on the Domain was not carried out because of the intervention of World War II. Nothing more was done until in 1969 the Tauranga Historical Society persuaded the city council to allow them the use of The Anchor House on the Market Reserve (formerly the Durham Redoubt). In 1972 th the announcement was made that 14 acres of brush­covered swamp on 17 Avenue would be made available for development. In December 1976 the Historic Village opened to the public. It was officially opened by the Governor­General Sir Denis Blundell on 2 May 1977. It closed again in the 1990s. Tauranga is still waiting for a museum to be built, possibly on the waterfront at the south end of The Strand. Libraries The first library was known as the Mechanics Institute. It opened in a room in James Bodell’s home on Cameron Road. In 1879 a reading room was erected in Harington Street. Unfortunately this long­awaited building burned down in a fire which also destroyed the Tauranga Hotel, on the opposite side of the road, on 31 May 1881. A new building designed by A.W.Burrows, a local architect, was ready by November. This building remained in use until 1930.
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 4 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y In December of that year a new building in the Art Deco style was opened, shared with the electricity department. Eventually the library took over the whole building. This was demolished in 1988 to make way for the Civic Arcade. 24 47. Tauranga Library next to the town hall, Willow Street, 1963. Education The first educational institution in Tauranga was at the Te papa mission station. With the establishment of the military settlement several schools opened: in the Durham Redoubt, the Catholic Church, and over the next decade several in private homes. The first public school was opened in the Quarter Acres, on a site bounded by St John Street, 10 th Avenue and Edgecumbe Road, which seems to indicate that most of the population lived in that part of the town. It opened officially on 14 December 1872 as the Opepe Memorial and District School, commemorating the death earlier that year of 9 local men, members of the Bay of Plenty Volunteer Cavalry, by Te Kooti’s followers. The plaque was later installed at St George’s church. Families at the northern end of the town petitioned for a more convenient location for the school. In 1886 No 2 School opened on the Harrington Street/Cameron Road corner. In 1896 the building was moved to the 10 th Avenue site, the buildings there being in a state of disrepair. Only six years later the school moved to a central site on 5 th Avenue. Unfortunately the 1886 class room was demolished in 1978. Some of the timbers were given to the Historic Village and incorporated into buildings there. 25 24 25 Bellamy, A.C., Tauranga 1882­1982 pp 83­87 Bellamy, A.C. Tauranga 1882­1982 pp 135­137
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 5 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y The existing buildings at Tauranga Primary School in between Fourth and Fifth Aves were built c 1930s, designed by Ministry of Education architects. The buildings are good examples of the timber school architecture built by the Ministry around this time and are similar in their general arrangement and detail to those at Rotorua and Takapuna in Auckland for example. The school site contains many mature trees. Tauranga Boys High School also retains many large trees which are a feature of Cameron Road near the intersection with Thirteenth Ave. The convent for the Sisters of St Joseph’s of Cluny and the adjacent St Mary’s school in Thirteenth Ave. Remaining Heritage Tauranga Primary School St Mary’s Primary School, Thirteenth Ave. Lost Heritage Library building, Willow Street No 2 School class room
T H E M A T I C H I S T O R Y ­ P A G E 7 6 C E N T R A L T A U R A N G A : H E R I T A G E S T U D Y Clubs and Societies Foresters Hall The Court Royal Oak of the Ancient Order of Foresters was established in Tauranga in 1880. It existed to provide welfare support for its members in pre welfare state society. In 1908 a special hall was erected on Spring Street. It stood there, behind the Ladies Rest Rooms until it was moved to the Historic Village in the late 1980s. It was also used as a practice room for the Tauranga Steel Band. The Tauranga Club The Tauranga Club was established in 1894, and built rooms on the cliff on Devonport Road in 1912. This building was demolished in 2003 to make way for the Devonport Towers building, which was completed in 2004. The Lyceum Club This ladies club was established in 1937. It first met in the Triangle Building at north end of Devonport Road. When this was demolished they moved into an elegant weather board building on 1 st Avenue, which has since been extensively restored. Theme V – Cultural Expressions Overview and Discussion Currently there are very few places included in the Heritage Register related to this theme. Building types of a similar type and period such as the primary school are recognised in district plans for other areas in New Zealand. Although Tauranga’s early timber churches no longer remain, recent church buildings are a significant feature in the central study area and the focus for communities which have long associations with the development of the community. Further research on these places could assist with their future recognition as heritage places. Similarly places such as Baycourt have been a successful focus for the cultural life of the community and likely to be valued over time. Information on historic clubs and societies such as the Lyceum Club and former Masonic Lodge in First Avenue could be gathered for an expanded central area heritage walk or heritage website. Existing listings related to this theme in/ close to the town centre include: The Elms Mission House and grounds, 15 Mission Street St Peters Manse, 136 Spring Street The Old House (Former Native Hostel/ School) 83 Seventh Ave Potential Management/ Further possible research: Research should be carried out on schools in the central area including Tauranga Primary School, Tauranga Boys High School and St Mary’s School in Thirteenth Ave Research should be carried out on churches in central Tauranga including: Holy Trinity Church St Mary’s Catholic Church St Peters Presbyterian Church The Wesley Methodist church centre in Thirteenth Ave St Enoch’s Presbyterian Church, Sixteenth Ave Baptist Church, corner of Thirteenth Ave Salvation Army centre The Old Cemetery in Seventeenth Ave Convent of the Sisters of St Cluny in Thirteenth Ave Research should be carried out on Baycourt. Information on historic clubs and societies such as the Lyceum Club and former Masonic Lodge in First Avenue could be gathered for an expanded central area heritage walk or heritage website. Research on the war memorials in Memorial Park should be gathered for potential inclusion in the district plan heritage register Consideration should be given to the inclusion of other memorials and artworks in the central area in the Heritage Register.
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