“Fancy a ghostly encounter?” Ewelme Cottage has that reputation. This historic cottage in Parnell is more than just a pretty building. It is a Category I listed building by Heritage New Zealand.
Ewelme Cottage was built between 1863 and 1864. Reverend Vicesimus Lush commissioned its construction. He was the vicar of Howick. He wanted his sons to attend the Church of England grammar school. Parnell was the seat of the Anglican Bishop of New Zealand. This location allowed Lush’s sons to study while he fulfilled religious duties.
The cottage is named after Ewelme Church in England. Lush planned the ground plan with an architect in England around 1850. The design reflects an influence from medieval architecture. This influence was popular in Ecclesiology at the time.
Originally, Ewelme Cottage had five rooms. Two lean-tos were connected. They likely served as a scullery and woodshed. The verandah was enclosed in 1865. This alteration enlarged the house. An extension around 1871 added a rear kitchen and attic. Extensive alterations occurred in 1882 and 1883. Since then, the building has remained largely unchanged.
The Lush family owned Ewelme Cottage for over a century. In 1969, they sold it to the Auckland City Council. Heritage New Zealand currently manages the property. The interiors and furnishings are well-preserved. You will find original furniture and over 800 books inside. The property also boasts a 19th-century garden.
Some say Ewelme Cottage is haunted. Strange activities have been reported. A Haunted Auckland team investigated these rumors. They used cameras, digital recorders, and EMF meters. High EMF levels were detected in certain areas. Sensitives felt uneasy in the child’s bedroom.
One photograph seemed to show an eerie face in a window. Shadowy figures appeared on the study wall. These findings led to a second investigation. The team tried to debunk the evidence. The face in the window was attributed to a bubble in the glass and reflections. One shadow photo remained unexplained.
The team held an EVP session in the children’s bedroom. They played games with toys to engage with any spirits. A balancing bird toy seemed to move during the session. A “kkkkk” sound was recorded.
Ewelme Cottage is considered an important historic place. It offers a glimpse into colonial life. The cottage has a unique personality. It might seem quirky, cute, or a bit odd. Ewelme Cottage was even used in the filming of The Piano. It is a testament to New Zealand’s architectural and cultural history.