Quarry house builds conservation connections

A heritage stone villa in Halswell Quarry Park will soon be home to conservation volunteers.

Paterson House will be leased to Conservation Volunteers New Zealand on a short-term contract following the approval of the Halswell-Hornby-Riccarton Community Board.

Conservation volunteers will move into Paterson House.

The volunteers and staff will live at the former quarry manager’s home while carrying out a wide range of biodiversity projects at Council parks and reserves and other conservation land across the district.

Built by quarry workers in 1927 for manager Ned Paterson, the three-bedroom house also showcased the use of the local stone.

Christchurch City Council Operations Manager, Regional Parks, Kay Holder says having so many willing hands involved in the maintenance of a special space underlines the strong community commitment to parks and reserves.

“The quarry, which was recently awarded the ‘Green Flag’ international mark of a quality park, is an exceptional space that requires constant attention,” Ms Holder says.

“The support of conservation volunteers in our parks and other public spaces cannot be understated and Paterson House provides ideal accommodation.”

The quarry, which operated from 1861 to 1990, provided cut stone for several significant city sites, including the Provincial Council Buildings and the Sign of the Takahe.

Designed by Council architect Victor Hean, Paterson House represents the hierarchical culture of the early quarry workplace and also showcases the building methods of the 1920s.