Heritage Talks and Events

The back view of a large seating gathering of people watching a presentation on a big screen

Monthly Heritage Talks

Our activities include monthly evening heritage talks at 7pm (February-November), where members and visitors can hear interesting speakers presenting on local and sometimes national historical content at the comfortable Waitakere Gardens Retirement Village Events Room, a short walk from Mill Cottage.

A koha donation can be made at the door and supper is provided at the completion of the talk.

People seating in rows watching and listening to a presentation

A.G.M and November Talk
Always a Tram in Sight! with James Duncan

Wednesday 26 November 2025
6.30pm for the AGM, 7pm for the talk

You are welcome to join us at 6.30pm for the WAHS AGM, or come at 7pm for a brilliant Trams talk followed by a Christmas-themed supper. Any festive treats would be appreciated.

Part 2 of the story behind Auckland’s much-loved electric trams, told through a selection of historic images covering the glory years, then their fall from grace. The programme includes a ten-minute video, taking us through the declining years of the trams – these are the years that many of you will remember. Delivered by the dynamic James Duncan, Tramway Project Manager from MOTAT.

The History of the Motor Car in Auckland with Barry Birchall

Wednesday 25 February at 7pm

This is the story of how the motor vehicle transformed Auckland, and of how the barriers and obstacles presented by Auckland’s terrain and weather were overcome.

Barry will have some of his books available for sale.