The old homestead, Willow Bank, Wainuiomata. Ref: 1/2-060610-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22352927
The historic homestead, Willowbank, located in Wainuiomata, was originally built in 1862 on the west bank of the Wainuiomata River along the Coast Road. The property took its name from the willow trees that once grew near the site.
Willowbank was the home of Richard Prouse, an early Wainuiomata pioneer who logged much of the Coast Road Valley and whose sons built the historic Coast Road Church, which still stands today.
In the 20th century, Willowbank was relocated to the roadside of Coast Road and divided into two sections. The upper portion was moved to 1044 Coast Road, near the entrance to Remutaka Forest Park, while the lower portion was taken to 565 Coast Road, where it remains visible in that house today.
Homes on the western side of the Wainuiomata River were built there due to the presence of an old track known as the Wainuiomata River Track. This track originated from the present-day Homedale/Village area and followed the west side of the river. Consequently, houses such as Willowbank (Burdans), Hermitage (Graces), and Richard Prouse’s home were constructed along this route in the 1850s. It was believed at the time that the main road would eventually be established along this track, influencing the location of these homes.
