Grafton

Gazing up at the Auckland City Hospital, perched atop Grafton’s slopes, one can almost hear echoes of the past. Grafton. A suburb steeped in history, named after the Duke of Grafton, patron to New Zealand’s first Governor, William Hobson. Grafton was once known as “Grafton Heights”, a nod to its affluent beginnings. Today, Grafton boasts a mix of old and new, its historic buildings standing proudly alongside modern developments. Many of these structures remain virtually untouched since the early 20th century. The suburb’s cohesive structure is protected by residential zoning that discourages demolition. Grafton even has its own resident’s association, the GRA, fiercely protective of its unique character. Did you know that beneath the charming streets of Grafton lies a forgotten volcano? Discovered in 2011, the Grafton Volcano predates the nearby Auckland Domain volcano. This revelation adds another layer of intrigue to this already fascinating suburb. Grafton is also home to the iconic Grafton Bridge, a marvel of engineering. Completed in 1910, it was the largest reinforced concrete arched bridge in the world at that time. Imagine the bustling activity during its construction. The Basley-Bush House, at 123 Grafton Road, played a significant role. It served as the residence of City Engineer Walter Ernest Bush, who oversaw the bridge’s completion. Today, this beautifully restored Victorian-Edwardian gem houses a café, art gallery, and salon. From grand structures to personal stories, Grafton has it all. The renowned aviator Jean Batten once graced these streets, staying with her brother in Seafield View Road. The artist Max Gimblett spent his childhood here in the 1940s, his family running the corner shop at Carlton Gore and Seafield View Roads. Later, in the 1990s, artist Don Binney used the same shop as his studio. As you stroll through Grafton, take a moment to appreciate the Outhwaite Park, a tranquil oasis gifted to the city by the Outhwaite family. Thomas Outhwaite, Auckland’s first Registrar of the Supreme Court, cultivated a stunning garden on this land with his French wife, Louise. While their house is no longer there, the park retains its original layout and many of its mature trees. Grafton is more than just a suburb; it’s a living tapestry woven with threads of history, art, and nature. It’s a testament to Auckland’s rich past and a vibrant part of its present.