Greytown, is an impressive hidden gem that pleasantly surprised me. Nestled in the heart of Wairarapa in the southern North Island, this charming village boasts lovely boutiques and many delicious eateries, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
The historic wooden buildings throughout the town truly caught my eye, highlighting the area’s rich history and character. It’s also worth noting that Greytown earned the title of New Zealand’s Most Beautiful Small Town in 2017, a fitting recognition for a community with a population of less than 5,000. This combination of beauty, culture, and history makes Greytown an excellent destination worth exploring.
Where is located?
Nestled in the heart of the Wairarapa region of New Zealand, this charming rural town offers a unique blend of natural beauty and community spirit.
Located on the lower North Island, it is approximately 80 km (48 miles) northeast of the bustling capital city, Wellington, making it a tranquil retreat not far from urban amenities.
Additionally, the town lies 25 km (15.5 miles) southwest of Masterton, another key center in the region.
The History
In 1854, settlers from Wellington looked for small, affordable farms. With support from Governor Sir George Grey, they founded a community named Greytown in his honor.
Greytown was New Zealand’s first planned inland town. The settlers faced challenges with thick bushes, but clearing them helped the town grow into a busy market and service center. It quickly became the largest settlement in the region and gained borough status in 1878.
Greytown was bypassed by the railway in the 1870s because of flooding from the Waiohine River. However, the town adapted using the rich alluvial soils created by the floods. This led to a booming pip-fruit, berries, and market gardening industry in the 1890s.
In the 20th century, Greytown faced a decline. However, in the 1990s, it experienced a resurgence as its historic buildings attracted many people from Wellington. These visitors chose to settle or buy second homes in the area. This renewed interest led to a revitalization, showing Greytown’s lasting charm and growth potential.
The Town
Greytown is home to the country’s most complete collection of historic wooden buildings, making it a fantastic place for exploration. Walking along Main Street, we appreciated the unique architecture that tells the region’s story. Although the weather was gloomy and rained that day, we made the most of our visit. The stroll allowed us to enjoy the town’s charm while reading the heritage plaques that provided insights into the village’s history as we navigated the main thoroughfare. It’s a reminder that there’s much to discover and learn, even in less than ideal weather.
Saint Andrew’s Church (63 Main Street)
The Cobblestones Early Settlers Museum in Greytown features the Old Methodist Church, built in 1865 and now a cherished landmark.
Before its construction, local residents gathered for religious services in a schoolroom. The community built this church as Greytown expanded to meet their spiritual needs.
Unfortunately, by the 1970s, the old church was in pretty bad shape, and there were plans to tear it down. Luckily, the New Zealand Historic Places Trust stepped in, and a wonderful new group called Cobblestones worked hard to save the building.
On December 1, 1979, the team restored the church beautifully and relocated it to the Cobblestones site at 175-177 Main Street.
Greytown Butchery (67 Main Street)
This charming shop has been a butcher’s since it opened in 1873! Sam Haigh, a well-known businessman in Greytown, was the very first owner. After he passed away, his wife, Mary Swenson, stepped in to keep the business running, and she did so from a high chair behind the counter. Over the years, the shop welcomed many different owners, but in 1999, Barry Whitney bought it and lovingly restored it to its beautiful Victorian style.
Loasby’s Shop (72 Main Street)
Welcome to this charming Victorian shop, built around 1891 as the Premier Boot Warehouse by Mr. Loasby, a well-known figure in Greytown.
It also doubled as a general store, serving the community in various ways. Fun fact: D.P. Loasby was the Mayor of Greytown from 1907 to 1919! Since 1992, this lovely building has been transformed into an antique store with unique treasures and a slice of history.
Former Bank of New Zealand (75 Main Street)
The remarkable building was constructed for the Bank of New Zealand between 1875 and 1876 by the talented architect R. A. Wakelin.
This building served as a bank and included the manager’s residence. It was the center of the town’s banking activities for many years until it closed its doors in 1997.
Kouka (cabbage Tree) Cottage (113 Main Street)
This charming cottage, built in 1868, was originally home to the gardener and earned its name, Kouka, from the beautiful cabbage tree that graced its yard for many years.
Kouka, also known as Cabbage Tree Cottage, likely served as the gardener’s cottage for the Kempton/Dunn family, who lived in a lovely house that used to be on the Old Masonic Hall site.
After falling into disrepair, the cottage received a heartwarming restoration in 1996, bringing back its original charm!
Former Masonic Lodge (115-117 Main Street)
This charming building started as a Masonic Hall on West Street in 1890. It found its new home at its current location in 1979, and for many years, it was the beloved Greytown Library from 1980 to 2007.
The land it sits on was originally owned by the Kempton family and generously gifted to the Greytown Borough Council by Mrs. Stella Bull. Today is a gallery art.
Jane Wakelin Cottage (125 Main Street)
Thomas and Jane Wakelin’s charming cottage was built back in 1854! While they called it home, they made several additions over the years. In 1888, the cottage found a new owner who continued the tradition of transformation, expanding the space further and turning it into a cozy workshop and tailor’s store.
Beard Building (126 Main Street)
The exact date of this building’s construction remains a mystery, but in 1881, Mrs. Webster owned it. At that time, she was the town clerk and also worked as a commission agent! From 1882 to 1892, the building served as the Borough Council Chambers, a bustling hub of local government. After the council moved to a new location, the building was sold to solicitor W.G. Beard, and it continues to be a legal office today!
Bright Home (129 Main Street)
This building has some fantastic history, as parts of it are recognized as the oldest structures in Greytown, dating back to 1861!
In 1891, a local blacksmith named Richard Bright added the upper floor. If you stroll in the front garden, you’ll notice the beautiful sizeable pink camellia and magnificent magnolia grandiflora planted in the late 1800s.
St Luke’s Anglican Church (135 Main Street)
St. Luke’s Anglican Church, established on Main Street in 1869, has a rich history marked by resilience and community spirit. 1876, significant additions were made, including a beautiful stained-glass window dedicated to honoring local Māori lay leaders, reflecting the church’s commitment to inclusivity.
Although the original building was tragically lost to arson in 1968, the community came together to rebuild it, resulting in a renewed St. Luke’s church completed in 1972.
Oddfellows Hall (Hastwell Street)
The Loyal Greytown Lodge #6341 has been a part of the community since 1879!
They would meet every other Wednesday in the hall on Hastwell Street, where they also host sports activities and Sunday school gatherings.
The building was built around 1925, replacing an older hall that had served since 1886.
👍Is It Worth to Visit Greytown?
You absolutely have to visit Greytown! It’s such a delightful rural town, filled with beautiful Victorian colonial architecture along the main street.
You’ll find some fantastic shops and yummy places to eat too. Don’t miss a stop at Mrs. Blackwell’s Bookstore—it’s a charming little spot with a beautiful selection of books and more. You’re sure to enjoy your time there!