Hine Road, nestled in the heart of Homedale in Wainuiomata, extends from Main Road and culminates at the Hine Road Recreation Area.
The street name
Hine Road was named after Edgar Hine (1870 – 1949), a bond holder in the Wainuiomata Development Company. He was born in Hemyock, Devon, England and married Mary Ann Bain on 27 June 1900, in Toko, Taranaki.
Exotic trees
During the 1860s, the Sinclair family, pioneers of the time, left an indelible mark on the landscape in the area where Hine Road is located today. Operating a mill, they cleared native forest to provide wood for housing in Wellington and to facilitate the conversion of the area into farmland. Subsequent efforts toward reforestation of the hills introduced a variety of exotic species, notably pine trees, which now grace the hillside behind Hine Road. Adding to the scenery, the road itself is adorned with a canopy of deciduous trees, creating a vibrant tapestry of colours during both spring and autumn months. Amidst this setting, at least three giant sequoias stand along the roadside.
Sinclair House
In the early 1860s, number 68 Hine Road stood as a home and was known as Sinclair House, after Isabella Sinclair (1803 – 1882). Later it became known as Dyers Whare which was named in honor of Phoebe Alicia Dyer nee Seddon (1871 – 1944). This house still exists today.
Original plan for Hine Road
A 1948 urban development plan, proposed Hine Road extending into Reservoir Valley, where Hine Road Recreation Area and Wainuiomata Regional Park are located today. However, this vision remained unrealized due to the Water Board’s concerns about safeguarding Sinclair Valley’s water catchment area against potential contamination from people, reflecting the era’s apprehensions about waterborne diseases like typhoid. This decision of course paved the way for the establishment of recreation reserves in this location, a cherished area enjoyed by both locals and visitors alike.
Road repairs and anomalies
Hine Road is wider at one end compared to the other because it was extended beyond the intersection with Poole Crescent in the late 1950s, at which point a narrower road width was chosen. In 1976, the road underwent repairs due to poor foundational work. As one of the earlier roads in Wainuiomata, its initial construction was subpar, lacking proper curbing, channelling, and adequate storm water drainage.
Mr Hughes Supermarket
In the 1960s and 70s, a Foursquare mini supermarket / dairy existed at 159 Hine Road (on the corner with Sunny Grove). This shop was the only retail store to exist in the history of Hine Road. Jim Hughes is pictured in the photo. He is wearing a tie and uniform. Today the building is a regular home.
Richard Prouse Park
Richard Prouse Park is a recreational area with sports fields that is known for its large size. It features a variety of amenities, and is a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Hine Road Recreation Area
Once called The Meadow, the Hine Road Recreation Area is a verdant space linking Richard Prouse Park and Wainuiomata Regional Park. It’s a favoured spot for walking your dog, providing access to several swimming spots, and also home to the Wainuiomata Garden of Remembrance and Sinclair Cemetery.
