Wainuiomata boasts a rich history, with certain individuals and families playing pivotal roles in shaping its story over the years.
Edgar Hine
Edgar Hine (1870–1949) emigrated from Hemyock, Devon, England, to New Zealand in 1879 and later became a farmer in New Plymouth. Despite living in Taranaki, he significantly contributed to Wainuiomata’s development, resulting in Hine Road being named in his honour.
Norman Elias Willis
Norman Willis, a land developer and owner, established a subdivision in Homedale, Wainuiomata in the late 1950s to 1960s, which encompassed Hine Road, Sunny Grove, and Willis Grove, the latter being named in his honor. Sunny Grove was named by his daughter, Brenda Shirley Willis (1931–2014), who expressed a desire for sunshine on the day she was shown the site.
Prouse Family
The Prouse family was central to Wainuiomata’s early history, playing a key role in milling the Coast Road valley and establishing farming operations. They recounted memories of a time when food shortages led to Māori raids in Wainuiomata and the brief excitement surrounding the discovery of gold at the present waterworks site.
Sinclair Family
The Sinclair family had a significant influence on the valleys east of what is now known as The Village. They owned land in Moores Valley, Sinclair Valley, Skerretts Gully (now Sunny Grove), and the area now known as Hine Road. On this land, they operated a successful timber milling business. However, the government, on behalf of the Wellington City Council, reached an agreement to designate part of their land as a water catchment area for a dam to supply Wellington with water, prohibiting further logging in that region. Combined with increased competition from forestry in the Hutt Valley and other areas closer to the main rail line, the Sinclair family eventually sold their land and left Wainuiomata.