Don’t miss the Brain-Watkins House Garden Party which takes place on 5th November.
The Brain Watkins House, a Category II Historic Place recognised by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, is a unique historical property in Tauranga’s central business district. Built in 1881 by Joseph Brain, this well-preserved home served one family for nearly a century, providing a glimpse into the life of a middle-class European household during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Renowned for its high cultural significance, uniqueness, and impeccable preservation, the Brain Watkins House stands as one of only six single-family homes in New Zealand with its original contents predominantly intact, functioning as a house museum.
Donated to the Tauranga Historical Society by Elva Brain Watkins in 1979, the society now oversees the museum’s management, preservation, and public exhibition.
What: Brain-Watkins House Garden Party
Where: Brain-Watkins House Museum, 233 Cameron Road, Tauranga
When: Sunday, 5th November
Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
A celebration of Tauranga’s heritage. Don your vintage finery and join the fun. Tickets include entry into the Open House, and the best-dressed costume and decorated bicycle competitions, as well as Devonshire tea, live music, and free activities for children. There will also be a vintage Café, raffles, local authors, artists, sculptures in the Heritage Garden, and food, crafts, and other storeholders.
Proceeds from the Garden Party go towards the upkeep of this historic kauri villa.
Tickets available HERE