Katherine Mansfield House & Garden
Katherine Mansfield is one of the world’s most acclaimed writers and a proud Wellingtonian. Take a step into her life in 19th century colonial Wellington.
Nairn Street Cottage offers a fascinating insight into the life of the Wallis family across 120 years of habitation. Three generations of the family lived in the cottage from 1857 to the late 1970s. First Catherine and William, who built the house, then daughter Clara and her four children. Clara’s daughter Winifred refused to vacate the cottage in 1972 for developers. This resulted in its preservation as a museum under the Colonial Cottage Museum Society.
Today, guided tours run through what life was like for these early British colonists and their descendants from both social and technological perspectives. Each room represents a different era and takes you on a journey through time. The 1860s nursery still features the original English wallpaper, while upstairs you can view the boys’ and girls’ bedrooms. In one room sits a toy church the children could only play with on Sundays. Underneath a bed lies a chamber pot used to avoid the long hike to the outhouse in the middle of the night.
Nairn Street Cottage
In the sitting room, a cross-stitch project still hangs on the wall, the endeavours of a 13-year-old Clara. In the kitchen, you’ll find all-the-mod-cons of the 1970s, including a TV and dial telephone.
Nearby, there’s a coal range, a copper washing machine, a wringer where clothes were wrung out, and a mangle used to press clothes.
The heritage garden complements the cottage with its mix of flowers, trees, and plants. The flora reflects the character of a 19th-century family garden. The peaceful outdoor space adds to the charm and historic atmosphere of the home.
Entry fees apply. Guided tours are also available.
Nairn Street Cottage
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