We must understand the past to create the future
Rich History
The origin of the name Orewa as ‘Ō: place of; rewa: a native tree, a contraction of rewarewa. Ōrewa originally referred to the river rather than the beachfront.’
‘Tourist’ image taken in 1921 showing revetting to Nukumea Stream.
Front view of Major De Grut’s house by Daniel Manders Beere, 1880 - 1899.
In 1856, Captain Isaac Rhodes Cooper bought 56 acres at the northern end of Orewa, on which he built a small cottage.
In 1868, the Orewa property was sold to Collings Jersey De Grut. The house was greatly enlarged by the De Grut’s, who were famous for their hospitality and became known as Orewa House.
Orewa House was sold in 1919 to the Eaves Family, who ran it as a guest house.
In 1957, the land was subdivided and purchased by the Theosophical Society.
Back view of Major De Grut’s house, 1880 - 1899 & 1903.
Coastal Properties (later named Orewa Sands) purchased the land in 2014 to build a community and homes for families and aspiring locals.
Today, Orewa House is occupied as a Health and Wellness Centre and is where you’ll find the iconic Walnut Cafe. Orewa Sands residents can take a short walk to this piece of local history.
Rose Cottage
Originally built in the 19th century, Rose Cottage is one of the last Victorian Villas in Orewa. The cottage was formally part of the land associated with Orewa House and is believed to be associated with the De Grut family who moved to Orewa in 1868.
The modest, single-story cottage building is traditionally designed and appears to have been constructed in the late 1800s based on surviving architectural details.
‘Aerial view of Orewa’ photographed by Whites Aviation, 1947.
Rose Cottage will be meticulously restored by Orewa Sands to its former colonial elegance to be enjoyed by residents and guests as an art and craft centre.
The key features include timber framing, sash windows, opening French doors and tongue-and-groove floors. A timber deck encompasses the building on the north and western sides providing tranquil views of Alice Eaves Scenic Reserve and Nukumea Stream.
Orewa Beach photographed by Daniel Manders Beere between 1863 and 1905.