“Fancy a journey back in time?” I ask, gesturing toward the Falls Hotel. This historic Georgian hotel whispers tales of Auckland’s past. The Falls Hotel stands proudly in Henderson. It is a Category 2 building recognized by Heritage New Zealand.
Falls Hotel was Henderson’s first licensed hotel. Imagine travelers making the long journey from Auckland. It was quite an expedition back then. The hotel offered respite and refreshment.
Its story begins in 1873. John McLeod, nicknamed “Shepherd,” built it. He managed Thomas Henderson’s farm and mill. Henderson initially opposed the hotel. But he soon realized its value to the growing town.
Originally, it was named Aritui Hotel in 1874 and 1875. By 1879, newspapers called it Oratia Hotel. Some even referred to it as Henderson Hotel around 1900. In 1925, it became the Central Hotel and Boarding House. Finally, in 1931, it was known as the Central Private Hotel. The name changes reflect its evolving role in the community.
Falls Hotel got its name from the Waitakere Falls. Aucklanders would stay here on their way to the falls. They sailed up the Waitemata Harbour. Then, they ventured onward to the Waitakeres.
The building’s architecture reflects its history. It started as a simple two-story timber building. A verandah wrapped around two sides. Georgian sash windows added charm. The upper-story windows were smaller than those downstairs.
Around 1907, an addition was built at the rear. The verandah was raised to cover both floors. This gave it a filigree architectural style. A lean-to was added in the 1930s. Later renovations in 1997 enlarged the first floor. This resulted in the loss of the lean-to.
Falls Hotel became a social hub. People gathered after horse races. St Patrick’s Day races drew crowds from Auckland. The hotel housed the local post office until 1881. Cattle sales attracted visitors from afar. Even prize fights took place outside its doors.
In the early 1900s, the hotel faced challenges. A prohibition on alcohol sales in 1908 changed things. The hotel’s reputation improved. There was even a coroner’s court held here in 1902. It investigated a death following a brawl.
Ownership changed over the years. Benjamin Cranwell and William Worrall bought it in 1908. Janes Wilkes purchased it in 1912. Steve Ozich acquired it in 1931.
Ozich relocated the Falls Hotel in 1961. He wanted the land for retail. The chimneys were destroyed during the move. They were later restored. Ozich lived there until 1991. A fire in 1953 caused water damage inside.
In 1996, the owners donated the building to the Waitakere City Council. It was moved to Alderman Drive. The Falls Hotel Preservation Trust restored it. The restoration was completed in 1998. The trust has owned the property since 2009.
Today, the Falls Hotel operates as a restaurant and café. Donna and Shaun are the current owners. They continue its tradition of hospitality.
Falls Hotel stands as one of Henderson’s oldest buildings. It shows how provincial hotels were built. It differs from hotels in urban Auckland. A footbridge near the hotel is named after McLeod. Maurice Gee’s children’s book, The Fat Man, features a hotel inspired by it. Falls Hotel remains a cherished landmark. It is a testament to Henderson’s rich history.