Our Story
The West Auckland Historical Society was formed in 1977 by a group who were concerned that not enough was being done to preserve and record the local history of West Auckland. From 1980 to 2002 the society operated a heritage display centre at Rose Hellaby House on the Scenic Drive, a significant chapter in the society's history. Since 1994 our headquarters has been the historic Henderson’s Mill Cottage which was gifted to Waitakere City Council in 1993 by the A K and N A Corban Family Trusts. In having its headquarters at Mill Cottage, the society continues to fulfil one of the specific clauses in the deed of gift - that the West Auckland Historical Society should have an appropriate role in both the preservation and ongoing use of the cottage.
Since 2016 the society has also included a Family History Group. The society is committed to capturing and sharing West Auckland’s stories—both recent and distant—which enrich and connect our community today.
We have an active and friendly committee, all passionate about local history and sharing this with our community.
West Auckland Historical Society activities include
Monthly talks
We meet at the comfortable Waitakere Gardens Retirement Village Events Room, where members and visitors can hear local history come to life with interesting speakers on a range of topics.
Publications
The society’s newsletter is published bi-monthly, and over the years, books and articles celebrating West Auckland’s local history have been published.
Research
Our experienced Local History research team and/or Family History expert will respond to specific queries. Contact us with your research enquiry and tap into our wide knowledge base.
Events
We participate in the annual Auckland Heritage Festival.
Contact us
Email info@westaucklandhistory.org.nz
Visit us
Henderson's Mill Cottage (see open hours below)
17 Sel Peacock Drive, Henderson
Auckland, New Zealand
Cottage Open Hours
Saturdays 11am-3pm (mid-Jan - mid-Dec)
Tour & School Groups - hours to suit
Entry by Donation or as arranged
