On Kawau Island, the Kawau Island Historic Reserve protects Mansion House and its gardens, as well as sites and relics of the historic copper industry. This brings the history associated with Sir George Grey together with the island’s industrial past.

Mansion House and its history

Mansion House was the former home of Sir George Grey and is classified as a Category 1 Historic Place. The historic wharf was built for Grey in 1875, replacing the existing wharf dating from 1844. The dates mark different construction phases: 1844 refers to the replaced wharf, while 1875 refers to the new one built for Grey. The historic gardens around Mansion House can be explored. The former home, the wharf’s construction history and the gardens therefore offer distinct historical points of interest.

Trails to historic sites and viewpoints

The Kawau Island Historic Reserve’s trail network provides access to the remains of the copper industry. The Coppermine Track follows an old coach road built for Sir George Grey. The historic route and the industrial remains offer two different ways to explore the island’s past: a trail associated with Grey and tangible relics of copper mining.

The viewpoint on the Two House Bay Track is open to the public, has a picnic table and offers views across Mansion House Bay. It is a clearly identified stop for visitors who would like to include a view over the bay alongside their exploration of the island’s history.

The Momona Point and Pā Track leads to a former pā site and a headland with good views of the mainland. A short detour from Schoolhouse Bay Road leads to a small historic cemetery where early Kawau Island residents are buried, including copper miners and their families. The cemetery adds a personal-history perspective to the copper relics: copper miners and their families are among the early residents buried there.

The trail destinations have different points of focus: views across Mansion House Bay, a former pā site with views of the mainland, or the cemetery and its early residents. When choosing, consider whether you are mainly looking for scenery or the island’s history.

Bays and getting there

The landscape includes numerous bays that offer shelter in almost any weather. The sandy and stony beach at Mansion House Bay is suitable for dropping off visitors from dinghies and tender boats. Sea conditions and access rules can change; check the latest information before coming ashore.

Water taxis and ferries travel to Kawau Island daily from Sandspit Wharf near Warkworth. Mansion House’s historic wharf may be used only for drop-offs and pick-ups; commercial ferries operate there. Check schedules and operators before your trip to make sure your arrival works with the services available on your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Muriwai Beach, Auckland, Bombay, Epsom, Great Barrier Island, Algies Bay, Riverhead, Warkworth.

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