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Anderson House History

In 1910, Sir Robert and Lady Anderson purchased a 300-acre block outside Invercargill, drawn to its 50 acres of native bush. The couple shared a passion for horticulture and while the property began as a sheep farm, extensive flower gardens were soon established.

The homestead was built in 1924 -1925. It was designed by Christchurch architect Cecil Wood, who specialised in the Georgian style. Now a Category 1 Listed Historic Place, the house features roof slates from Wales, Georgian replica fireplaces carved from Ōamaru stone, and beautiful interiors finished in rimu and American maple.

At the back of the house stands Te Wharepuni o Anehana, built in 1925, with carvings created by Tene Waitere, Ngāti Tarāwhai and Te Arawa. Te Wharepuni o Anehana is a Listed Wāhi Tūpuna/Tīpuna with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.

A black and white photo of a large white house with workers at the front.

Anderson House under construction in early 1925.

It was Sir Robert’s wish that on his and Lady Anderson’s passing, the house and grounds, including the block of native bush, be gifted to the city for use as a public park. This took place in 1951.

The Andersons were also collectors of art, and for some time, the residence was home to the Anderson Park Art Gallery Society’s collection of New Zealand art.

The Gallery closed in 2014 due to earthquake risk, with strengthening work approved by the Invercargill City Council.

Anderson House Trust was established in 2019 to protect and preserve the intent behind the Andersons' gift, working in collaboration with Invercargill City Council for the benefit and enjoyment of the public.

Follow Anderson House Trust on Facebook for updates or read more about Anderson House and Park here.

A carved Maori whare whakairo surrounded by trees with lawn in front.

Sir Robert Anderson was interested in Māori artefacts. Carvings from Ngāti Tarāwhai in Rotorua were used to build a replica Whare Whakairo behind the main house.

Te Wharepuni o Anehana was constructed in 1925. The wharepuni is a taonga of significant cultural importance. It was the first whare in Te Wai Pounamu to be given Wāhi Tūpuna/Tīpuna status.

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