Ewelme Cottage in Ayr Street, Parnell is closed from 5 April until sometime in June, to undergo scheduled repairs and maintenance. The work includes cleaning of the original brickwork on the chimneys, re-pointing and bracing the chimneys in the kitchen and dining room, and replacement of gutters and weatherboards.

Built in 1863, the timber cottage was commissioned by the Reverend Vicesimus Lush, vicar of Howick, and his wife Blanche. The Lush family lived there for over 100 years and the cottage has changed very little since then. It is owned by Auckland Council and cared for and managed by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.

Image: Auckland Council