The old homestead, Willow Bank, Wainuiomata. Ref: 1/2-060610-F. Alexander Turnbull Library, Wellington, New Zealand. /records/22352927
The historic homestead, Willow Bank, located in Wainuiomata, was originally built in 1862 on the west bank of the Wainuiomata River along Coast Road. It was named after the willow trees near that site. In the 20th century, the home was relocated to the roadside of Coast Road and split into two parts. The lower half was moved to 565 Coast Road, while the upper half was moved to 1044 Coast Road, opposite the entrance to Remutaka Forest Park.
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.
![Wainuiomata River and School, Circa 1920 [Public Domain]](https://wainuiomata.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Wainuiomata-River-School-480x270.jpg)
