The Pah Homestead. A name whispered on the breeze. It speaks of grandeur. Of a bygone era.
This magnificent Italianate villa. It stands before you in Monte Cecilia Park. Built for James Williamson in 1877-1879. It was one of the largest and most expensive homes ever constructed in New Zealand. Imagine the parties. The celebrations held within these walls.
Hillsborough itself. A leafy suburb boasting stunning views of the Manukau Harbour. From most homes you can see the water. Puketu Island sits like a jewel in the distance. In parts of Hillsborough you can see Titirangi-like views of the bush. The area has a rich history dating back centuries. Long before European settlement. The southeastern part near the harbour was known as Rangiaowhia. A significant Mu0101ori settlement and waka landing site. Sadly parts of it were lost to the construction of State Highway 20 in 1975. The northern area. Known as Koheraunui. Famous for its kohekohe trees and kumara cultivations.
Powerful Tainui chief Pu014dtatau Te Wherowhero. He spent time in Koheraunui. He would later become the first Mu0101ori King. He and his brother occupied the area until 1840. Then they moved to coastal Mu0101ngere. The land was eventually sold to William Hart. A pivotal moment in Hillsborough’s history.
But the name Hillsborough itself? That’s a tribute to James Carlton Hill. He left land to the city in his 1858 will. A generous gift. One that shaped the very fabric of this suburb.
The Pah Homestead. After Williamson’s business failed. The estate was broken up. Different organisations moved in. A Franciscan Friary. Marcellin College. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints built a church on Pah Road. Sanitarium Wholefoods and Holeproof Enterprises established factories. Auckland City Council created Seymour Park.
The Roman Catholic Church purchased the Pah Mansion in 1913. They renamed it Monte Cecilia. The house served as emergency housing for many years. Auckland City Council bought the property in 2002. Today. It is a public park. It houses Sir James Wallace’s extensive collection of New Zealand Modern art. A fitting tribute to the area’s rich history and artistic spirit. A testament to the enduring legacy of Hillsborough.