Kinder House

Kinder House – Overview

Kinder House’s construction was commissioned by Bishop G.A. Selwyn in 1857. Deemed as one of the most noted stone buildings in Auckland, it is interesting to note that it was designed by an architect named Frederick Thatcher. It was constructed for a London-born man named John Kinder, who besides being the reverend at the local Church of England Grammar School, was also many things from a teacher to a painter to a photographer. After the house’s construction, he inhabited the place along with his wife and his late brother’s six children; his brother is said to have been murdered by his wife and her lover.

Headmaster’s House: Its Architecture and More…

As the heading hints, yes.. this house is also known as ‘Headmaster’s House’. Next, comes the architecture- so note that it is the finest example of Gothic-style architecture; this double-storey mansion was built using gray volcanic stones from the nearby Mount Eden. The house was introduced as a gallery and was opened to the public in 1982; not only this, it can also be booked for functions like wedding receptions etc. The house retains its original form and interior; also note that the ground floor rooms hold the display of watercolors, photographs and sketches by John Kinder (1819-1903).

Spooky Links

It is rumored that Kinder house is haunted by a ghost; the inhabitant is usually reported to be a shadowy figure mostly stated to be Kinder himself, or perhaps his brother.

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