From Heritage New Zealand, Winter 2010

The generosity of NZHPT members is helping to ensure the ongoing use and enjoyment of one of Auckland's best-loved heritage properties.

From a distance Alberton's grandeur and style is a visual delight. However, once beneath the surface it was clear extensive restoration work was required.

An old and rotten veranda pillar is an unlikely display feature in the ballroom of stately Alberton, namesake of the Auckland suburb of Mt Albert. However, it is a visual reminder of why restoration work estimated in excess of $500,000 is necessary at this heritage landmark. It also represents some of the maintenance challenges facing the NZHPT as it cares for its heritage properties.

Thanks to the generosity of the NZHPT’s members, $26,838 received in a pre-Christmas donation campaign has been put towards restoration and revitalisation work so that Alberton can continue to charm, entertain and delight visitors for many years to come.

Alberton’s doors have been open to the community since 1863 when the Kerr Taylor family moved in. While their archery parties, hunting meets and other traditional 19th-century outdoor pursuits may have become outmoded, it is still home to a range of social events.

Alberton was assessed as having the greatest and most urgent need for the proceeds of the donation campaign because of the extra work that was uncovered once restoration began.  “Just as anyone engaged in repairs and maintenance or restoration discovers, the real costs often only become apparent once you start to open things up,” says Priscilla Pitts, the NZHPT’s Heritage Destinations General Manager.

“Homeowners up and down the country will be nodding as they read this, although I hope they won’t ever have had to face quite such a large repair bill.”

The third and final stage of the exterior conservation project is scheduled to begin mid-year, helped by the generosity of NZHPT members and the enthusiasm with which they support our heritage. As Alberton’s property manager Rendell McIntosh succinctly concludes: “Places such as Alberton are windows to our history that should never be shut.”