Today we decided to explore the eastern side of Auckland, firstly heading to Howick Historical Village. This is based on the fencible settlements dating back to the late 1840s/early 1850s and has involved the transportation of buildings from their original sites to this dedicated area. The fencibles were retired soldiers from Britain offered a free passage to NZ with the promise of land and a cottage in return for 7 years military service. On arrival, they found that the cottages weren't built and had to live in either a tent or raupo until they were - an example of both in this picture.
Once the actual cottages were built, some of the owners transformed their front rooms to general stores or pubs.
The more senior ranked ex-soldiers were provided larger and better built cottages with more acres of land.
The old methodist church was built in 1852, and can still be used today for wedding ceremonies.
This homestead was built in 1861 and had to be split into several pieces to transfer to the current site. The village was a very interesting stop off and confirmed that NZ does have a little bit of history!
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