Avebury House and Park

A sheltered children's paddling pool and children's playground have pride of place in this park.

The Cora Wilding Youth Hostel occupied the 1885 house but it is now known as Avebury House and operates as a community and function centre.

The origins of the property date back to 1851, when a very early settler, Dr Gundry purchased 25 acres and built himself a cottage. He was unimpressed with Christchurch and left in 1858, when the Flesher family bought the estate and built the current house. It was extended in 1907. There is some suggestion that the south wing might still incorporate some original elements of Dr Gundry's cottage. Inside, the joinery and plaster features are of note.

With much of the suburb of Richmond, that grew up around Avebury, now razed by the earthquakes, this is a remarkable survivor, especially the fact of it's 2013 re-opening as a community and event venue. The community is also establishing a community garden here.

Image Credits: Avebury House