Highwic (Public)
Hidden from public view by mature trees and high hedges, Highwic retains the recreational aura of a wealthy Colonial family. The grounds provide welcome respite from the busy commercial area nearby. An old orchard borders Gillies Avenue and Echium pinana stand above the volcanic outcrop forming the north-west corner of the property. Trees around the homestead, including old, once fashionable, pines, date from the 1860s. Norfolk pines dominate the croquet lawn where visitors can still enjoy a game.
The layout of today's garden was probably complete by the early to mid-1880s, if not earlier. It reflects garden design principles prevalent in the horticultural press of the mid-nineteenth century, not the least those of Andrew Jackson Downing, the American architect and landscape designer whose plan the original Highwic followed.
Opening Hours and Tariffs
Wednesday – Sunday 10.30am – 4.30pm (closed Monday, Tuesday, Good Friday and Christmas Day)
$10.00 entry to house, accompanied children free
Heritage New Zealand members free
Can accommodate large groups
Contact Details and Location
Physical Address: 40 Gillies Avenue, Epsom
Phone: 09 5245729
Email: highwic@heritage.org.nz
Website: https://www.heritage.org.nz/places/places-to-visit/auckland-region/highwic
Facilities and Amenities
Children Welcome
Conference Facilities