Milestones for Shadbolt House

In June, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga confirmed Shadbolt House and Studio as a Category 1 historic place. The property gained national heritage status in recognition of its “aesthetic, cultural and historical significance.” This is a pivotal milestone for the trust and a boon for the West Auckland region.

In October, alongside Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, the trust held a celebration event at the house. The gathering brought together Shadbolt whānau, project partners, and a wider community of supporters, filling the space with a tangible wairua of energy, connection, and enthusiasm. We are deeply grateful to the Shadbolt family for generously sharing the photographs, books, and memorabilia that brought the house’s rich history to life.

As stories and laughter echoed through the walls, we glimpsed the house’s future as a writers’ residency—a place where creativity and inspiration will thrive for years to come. This moment reinforced the significance of the project, particularly as securing further funding remains a critical challenge

Our thanks to Babich Wines and Barfoot & Thompson for their support in providing refreshments and delicious kai. And a huge thanks to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga for their expert insights on the evening, and for their research and reports supporting the heritage listing. A full version of the report, including contributions from historians, is available for download here.

Renovations at Shadbolt House are progressing steadily, with help from funders. A significant grant received from Lotteries Heritage and Environment this year has launched the next stage of the required structural restoration work. Updates will be shared in the coming year, as the initiative continues to gain momentum and progresses toward securing its long-term goals as a premier residency for writers.

Image: Members of the Shadbolt Family. Photo Ben Bell