Archway in Truby King garden
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Truby King House and Garden is a 1.9ha heritage-listed estate in Melrose. The estate was once home to Sir Truby and Lady Isabella King - founders of the Plunket Society.
Today the gardens offer a picturesque slice of history. Sir Truby is widely remembered for his contribution to improving the health of children and the mentally ill. But he also had famously green thumbs.
The garden Sir Truby planted in the 1920s of pines, roses, rhododendrons and azaleas is still there today, and maintained by Council gardeners. Entry is free.
The Truby King Mausoleum is also located in the garden.
The Building, Biology and Ecology Institute is now based in the house.
Location
21 Manchester Terrace, off Manchester Street, Melrose.
Hours
- Garden - open from dawn to dusk year round.
- House - there is a tour of the house during the Meet the Curator day in November each year.
Access
Parking is available on Manchester Street, Rodrigo Road and Sutherland Road, or take the No 23 bus. It is a 10-minute uphill walk from Wellington Zoo.
Metlink
House and garden trust
The Truby King House and Garden Trust makes sure the property is maintained as an accessible community asset.
The Trust looks after the house and is dedicated to conserving the site's heritage values and unique features. It was established in 2002 and works in partnership with Wellington City Council.
Aims
- Help maintain New Zealand's heritage
- Help with the conservation, restoration and maintenance of the house and garden
- Encourage people to visit
Activities
- Public access
- Fundraising
- Conservation
- Events
- Research
Volunteers
If you are interested in volunteering at Truby King House and Garden, contact the Treehouse Visitor Centre.
Donations
The Trust welcomes all donations including any historic material with significance to Truby King or the development of Plunket. All donations over $5 are tax deductible.