Early days in Hillcrest, Hamilton

A DigitalNZ Story by Zokoroa

A pictorial history of the Hillcrest suburb in Hamilton from its militia settler farming years to becoming an educational hub with the Hamiton Teachers' College, University of Waikato and Ruakura Research Centre.

Hamilton, Hillcrest, Waikato, University of Waikato, Ruakura, Hamilton Teachers' College, farming, orchards, Land Wars, Tainui, Militia, Waikato Regiment

1. Hamilton's Hillcrest Suburb ON CREST OF A HILL  

Hillcrest is a suburb in south-east Hamilton that stretches from the Waikato River and Hamilton Gardens through to the University of Waikato and Ruakura Research Centre. The land was originally owned by Waikato-Tainui until it was confiscated in 1864 after the New Zealand Wars with British troops. This story traces from when militia settlers farmed Hillcrest's slopes (formerly known as Steele's Hill), orchards were established and the Government set up the Ruakura No. 5 State Farm. Parts of Hillcrest {renamed in the 1940s) were given back to Tainui in 1995 in the Tainui Deed of Settlement. Nowadays Hillcrest is 'home' to thousands of University students and family homeowners. 

Image: Hamilton east of the river

Hillcrest (previously Steele's Hill)

Hillcrest suburb lies to the east of Hamilton's CBD and Waikato River.

Hamilton east of the river

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Waikato University, Hamilton

Waikato University atop Hillcrest's western ridge

View of Waikato University atop the Hillcrest ridge and the Waikato River in the far distance.

Waikato University, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: St John's College, Auckland

Farmland subdivided over the years & housing & school built

Today Hillcrest is 'home' to family homeowners & students studying at the University & St John's College

St John's College, Auckland

Alexander Turnbull Library

2. Icons on Hillcrest

Image: The Cowshed with the Student Union Building

The Cowshed

The Cowshed near Oranga was a former cowshed (!) built in 1953 on land previously part of Ruakura's No. 5 State Farm.

The Cowshed with the Student Union Building

University of Waikato

Image: Hamilton Teachers Training College on left and Waikato University Library Building on right

Hamilton Teachers' College (now part of University of Waikato)

View from the playing fields towards the Teachers' College & University Admin block on Hillcrest Road.

Hamilton Teachers Training College on left and Waikato University Library Building on right

Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga

Image: The Station, 1968

The Station

Hamilton Railway Station building was relocated to Hillcrest Rd in the 1960s & was a cafe & meeting hub for many years.

The Station, 1968

University of Waikato

Image: Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

The University's lakes and Oranga

In 1970s-80s Bryant Hall & Student Village held tug-of-wars across Knighton Lake & dined in Oranga next to Oranga Lake.

Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

3. Hillcrest's beginnings - confiscated Waikato-Tainui     land

Kirikiriroa (Hamilton) was one of several Ngāti Wairere settlements along the Waikato River. They had developed the Kirikiriria Pā between London Street and Bryce Street. Early settlers also called the surrounding area Kirikiriroa. During the Waikato Land War, Ngāti Wairere abandoned the Pā before the arrival of British troops and relocated to Hukanui (Gordonton) where they are today. Under Governor Grey's New Zealand Settlements Act 1863, large areas of Waikato-Tainui land (1.2 million acres) were confiscated by the Crown in 1864.   

Image: Confiscated territory after the Maori Wars, in the Waikato, 1864

Kirikiriroa (Hamilton) was owned by Waikato-Tainui until it was confiscated in 1864 following the New Zealand Wars.

Confiscated territory after the Maori Wars, in the Waikato, 1864

Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga

Image: King Tawhiao

King Tāwhiao went into exile (1864-1881) into the King Country & Ngāti Wairere went to Hukanui (Gordonton).

King Tawhiao

Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki

4. Militia settlers recruited for 4th Waikato Regiment 

The Government decided that the settlement of the confiscated Waikato-Tainui land would be by free land grants to militia men who would be able to defend it in case of future hostilities. Lieutenant William Steele was sent to Sydney to enlist men for the 4th Battalion of the Waikato Regiment who were required to serve for three years. Their settlement at Kirikiriroa was renamed "Hamilton" by Colonel William Moule in honour of Captain John Fane Hamilton, Commander of H.M.S Esk, who was killed in Battle of Gate Pā, Tauranga. 

Image: Captain William Steele

Lt Steele sent to Sydney at end of 1863 to recruit militia settlers & was promoted to Captain after his return in March.

Captain William Steele

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Hamilton West

Kirikiriroa was chosen as a settlement for the 4th Battalion of the Waikato Regiment and their families.

Hamilton West

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Captain Hamilton

Kirikiriroa renamed by Col. William Moule after Capt. John Fane Hamilton who was killed in Battle of Gate Pā, Tauranga.

Captain Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

5. MILITIA SETTLERS ARRIVE IN HAMILTON, 1864 

The 4th Battalion of the Waikato Regiment arrived on 25 August 1864 on the vessel ‘Rangiriri.  

Image: Gunboat 'Rangiriri'...1864

Steele & 4th Regiment of Waikato militia (119 men & families) landed at Memorial Park in Hamilton East on 24 Aug 1864.

Gunboat 'Rangiriri'...1864

Auckland Libraries

Image: 4th Waikato Regiment

4th Waikato Regiment. From left: Chas Ramsay, Dr A.A. Brewis, W.H. Hume, Lt Shilson

4th Waikato Regiment

University of Waikato

Image: Original 4th Waikato Regiment 25th Anniversary 1889.

Regiment's reunion, 1889

Original 4th Waikato Regiment 25th Anniversary 1889.

University of Waikato

6. MILITIA SETTLERS RECEIVE FREE LAND GRANT 

The township of Hamilton East was first surveyed by William Australia Graham in 1864. A map showing land grants can be viewed on History of the University of Waikato Campus, p.2 (pdf).  A 'corridor' of land was set aside for a proposed tramway which did not eventuate and became Ruakura Road and Silverdale Road.  A Gazette notice of 3 August 1863 had set out the terms under which grants of land were made to settlers: the militiaman had to be “not above 40 years of age, have to be able to produce certificates of good character, good health, and general fitness for service as required”. The terms of enlistment in the Waikato Regiment stated: "free grants of land were to be made on the scale of 400 acres for each field officer, 300 acres for each captain, 250 acres for the surgeon, 200 acres for each subaltern, 80 acres for sergeants, 60 acres for corporals, while each private was to be allocated 50 acres. In addition, each man was to be allocated a town section and 1,000 feet of timber to build a house. For the first year, until they received their land, they were to receive rations."      

Image: Plan of Trees planted in Sydeny Square, Hamilton East

4th Waikato Regiment

Plan of Trees planted in Sydeny Square, Hamilton East

Hamilton City Libraries

7. Town sections developed

Military outposts were built on both sides of the Waikato river, now the sites of St Peter's Cathedral and the Hamilton East end of Anzac Parade. Within a year there were huts and stores around the redoubts and a ferry service connected both settlements. In December 1877, the towns of Hamilton West and Hamilton East  were merged to form the Borough of Hamilton. The first traffic bridge between Hamilton West and Hamilton East, known as the Union Bridge, opened in 1879. Three remaining buildings of that time - Beale Cottage, Nickisson House and Masonic Centre - are located in Hamilton East. 

Image: Settler’s cottage, Hamilton

Artist John Philemon Backhouse's pencil & watercolour image of a military settler’s cottage in Hamilton.

Settler’s cottage, Hamilton

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

8. Farms & Orchards developed at Steele's Hill     (HILLCREST) 

The Hillcrest area was initially known as Steele's Hill which was named after Captain William Steele whose land grant was on its western slopes. Later Steele's Hill was renamed Hillcrest in the 1940s when the Borough of Hamilton became a city.  In his history of Hamilton Astride the river (1977), P.J. Gibbons writes, "... within the projected township and beyond were clumps of forest, very wet underfoot, dominated by tall kahikatea pine... There  were considerable areas of fern and manuka scrub.. Beside the terraces deep wide gullies marked the immediate landscape, the clearer places were bogs and swamps. The climate was mild and pleasant by day and cold by night." Whereas some settlers farmed their land, many did not finding it too swampy and either abandoned or sold it after the required three years of military service were completed.

NORTHERN slopes of HILLCREST - RUAKURA AREA: 

Blocks of land were granted on the northern slopes of Hillcrest-Ruakura to Ensign John Crawford, Ensign Rivers and J.C. Pearson. All three sold their land to Yorkshire settler Isaac Coates who had arrived in Hamilton in 1868.  From 1878-1892, Coates was involved in local politics and a range of businesses, including flaxmilling, land drainage and operating mowing machines, reaper and binders and threshing machines (see NZETC: Cyclopedia of New Zealand).  

Image: Ruakura, Waikato Region

Ensign John Crawford sold his land (Lot 237-41) to Isaac Coates

Crawford allowed Lt Johnstone to graze his stock on his land; then sold his block of land to Coates.

Ruakura, Waikato Region

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Ruakura Research Station

J.C. Pearson (Lot 242) & Ensign Rivers (Lot 243) sold their land grants to Coates

Coate's leased his 690 acres to brother-in-law Thomas Dinsdale in 1872 who worked it for five years to sow wheat & oats.

Ruakura Research Station

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Councillor I. Coates

Coates became Councillor and Mayor

Elected to Hamilton Borough Council (1878, 1887-88, 1901-02, 1905-07) and served two terms as Mayor from 1888-92.

Councillor I. Coates

Victoria University of Wellington

The Government also acquired acres in 1886 and additional land in 1901, including Coates' farm at Ruakura, with the intent of setting up a training and research centre under the Waikato Agricultural College Model Farm Act (1888). (See AgResearch: Ruakura Campus)    

Image: Ruakura Experimental Station

Government acquired 137 acres (1886), plus Coates' farm & other land (1901)

The Waikato Agricultural College Model Farm Act (1888) paved the way for an experimental & research centre.

Ruakura Experimental Station

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Ruakura state farm, Hamilton

Ruakura Experimental Station established by Government on 914 acres

Ruakura's initial experiments were on using superphosphate as a top-dressing for hay,

Ruakura state farm, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Cows and the Cowshed, 1966

Ruakura State Farm opened with cadets (1912)

By 1946 Ruakura carried 2,000 sheep, 400 dairy cattle, 100 beef cattle, and 200 pigs.

Cows and the Cowshed, 1966

University of Waikato

Image: For The Training Of Young New Zealand Farmers

In 1920 the “Homestead” was built by Auckland architect W A Cumming to accommodate cadets

For The Training Of Young New Zealand Farmers

Auckland Libraries

For an audio account of growing up in Hamilton as a teen during the 1930s-40s and studying a farming course at Ruakura, see interview with Jack Riddell & Margaret Harris  (Hamilton Public Library Youth Oral History Project).

From 1922-1968, part of Ruakura was used to establish the Hamilton substation and switchyards for the supply of electric power from the Waikato River hydro schemes.

Image: Visual Pollution ~ Wires over Hamilton

From 1922-1968, Hamilton substation & switchyards set up for supplying electric power from Waikato River Hydro schemes.

Visual Pollution ~ Wires over Hamilton

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre

Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre, ca. 1984

Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre

Hamilton City Libraries

Eastern Slopes of Hillcrest area:

Farming:

Land was granted on the eastern slopes to Captain William Steele and the area became known as Steele's Hill (renamed Hillcrest in the 1940s). Later in 1899, Steele's land was sold to Yorkshire farmer Isaac Coates who had already begun purchasing land from other militia settlers. Coates had been Mayor of Hamilton from Jan 1888 - Oct 1889 and Dec 1889 - Dec 1892. After selling his land, Steele was a land agent and valuer, and served on Waikato County Council and many local organisations. Sydney Park in Hamilton East was renamed Steele Park after Steele's death. 

Image: Hamilton East with Ruakura and site for future University of Waikato

Captain William Steele received a town acre & 300 acres (Lots 232-235)

Hamilton East with Ruakura and site for future University of Waikato

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Ruakura, Hamilton

Area named Steele's Hill after William Steele

Steele employed labourers to clear the land & by May 1866 had ploughed & sown 100 acres.

Ruakura, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Hamilton Borough Councillor - Isaac Coates

Yorkshire settler & former Hamilton Mayor Isaac Coates purchased Steele's land in 1889

With financial losses over Waikato Land Association's scheme to drain Piako swamp, Steele sold up to Isaac Coates.

Hamilton Borough Councillor - Isaac Coates

Hamilton City Libraries

Sunnyside (McMiken) Orchard:

The block of land granted to W. Powell on the corner of Hillcrest and Silverdale Roads was purchased by farmer Frank Clifton Litchfield. In 1910, Litchfield's property was sub-divided and sold in separate lots to farmers, including the McMiken family (Lot 6) who established an orchard. Further land was purchased by McMiken in 1925 (part of Lot 5) and 1943 (Lot 9).  Access to the Orchard's homestead was off Silverdale Road which was originally named Knighton Avenue in 1943. It was changed by the Hamilton City Council in 1962 who named it after Silverdale Farms, owned by Captain C.A. Davis.   

Image: University of Waikato, Hillcrest, Hamilton

W. Powell granted land (Lot 236) on cnr of Hillcrest & Silverdale Rds and sold it to Frank Clifton Litchfield

Powell did not take up his land grant which became part of Frank Clifton Litchfield's property.

University of Waikato, Hillcrest, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Outskirts of south west Hamilton, showing orchards

John McMiken bought 14 bare acres (Lot 6) from Litchfield (Aug 1914)

McMiken gave 10 acres to his son Jeff (June 1916) - a 16 yr old cadet at Ruakura Institute of Farm Instructors.

Outskirts of south west Hamilton, showing orchards

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: A Block from the air, 1966

Sunnyside Orchard (top left) established by Jeff McMiken

Orchard expanded in 1925 (part of Lot 5) & 1943 (Lot 9).

A Block from the air, 1966

University of Waikato

Over the years, a variety of apples and pears were grown, according to adverts in the Waikato Times (1925), which won prizes at several Waikato Winter Shows. In 1958 all of the Sunnyside Orchard's land was transferred to W.J. McMiken Ltd. In 1962, a satellite orchard was set up on 20 acres in Newstead and fruit trucked to McMiken Orchard. (See Eureka Express, July 2014 and History of the University of Waikato Campus, p.9)    

Image: Waikato Winter Show.

Variety of apples & pears grown which won prizes at Waikato Winter Shows

Waikato Winter Show.

Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira

Image: Rural Hamilton area

Sunnyside Orchard (bottom right) next to housing on east side of Hillcrest Rd

Entrance to the Orchard's homestead was off Silverdale Road (formerly called Knighton Avenue)

Rural Hamilton area

Alexander Turnbull Library

Orchard becomes part of University of Waikato:

In 1979, McMiken's Orchard was acquired under the Public Works Act for the University of Waikato. Part of the land was leased back to the Orchard over the following decade. In 1991, Sunnyside Orchard moved to Newstead and was known as J.W. McMiken & Co. The University removed the grove of apple trees behind a privet hedge that bordered Hillcrest Road and the public walkway to Scotland Place which lies next to Gate 7 (see Campus map). The Waikato Management School and carparks were built, followed by the Faculty of Law building. 

Image: Aerial of Hamilton

Part of Orchard on Hillcrest Road opposite University's Gates 5-8

(Bottom right)

Aerial of Hamilton

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: The University Campus looking west, 1979

Another view of part of Orchard on Hillcrest Road

(At middle bottom of photo)

The University Campus looking west, 1979

University of Waikato

Image: B Block and the Station, 1977

Privet hedge surrounded Orchard on Hillcrest Road

Privet hedge surrounded the grove of apple trees on Hillcrest Road and the public walkway to Scotland Place (by Gate 7)

B Block and the Station, 1977

University of Waikato

Image: Management Building from Hillcrest Road

Nowadays - Management & Law buildings occupy Orchard site near Hillcrest Road

The buildings are on the former grove of fruit trees which had a privet hedge.

Management Building from Hillcrest Road

University of Waikato

Other facilities were also established off the Silverdale Road entrance to the former orchard - the Orchard Park student accommodation, TKKM o Tōku Māpihi Maurea, Te Kōhanga Reo o Ngā Kuaka,  NIWA, Landcare Research, Aqualinc Research and carparks. See Campus map.

Image: Orchard Park from the air

Orchard Park student accommodation on former Sunnyside Orchard site

Orchard Park from the air

University of Waikato

Image: Orchard Park, 1987

Orchard Park student accommodation

Orchard Park, 1987

University of Waikato

Western slopes of HILLCREST - KNIGHTON - claudelands: 

Grants of land to militia on Hillcrest's western slopes between the Hamilton East Town belt, Ruakura and Hillcrest Road changed ownership over the years. The history of the land now occupied by the University of Waikato Campus can be traced through a series of plans held by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ). Research was carried out by Evelyn Stokes, Professor of Geography, which was completed by Max Oulton, the University of Waikato cartographer. Copies of the plans are held in the New Zealand Collection of the University of Waikato Library. (Source: History of the University of Waikato Campus (July 2017) compiled by John Robson.)

Farming:

Joseph Mullins grew potatoes on his block of land (Lot 224) which was between the Timber Reserve in Claudelands and Peacocke's farm. Peacocke sold his land to Samuel Seddon who named his 350 acre farm 'Knighton Farm'.  Seddon had arrived from Howick in 1869  & bred prize-winning shorthorn herd & Lincoln sheep.Army doctor William Raynor’s land (Lots 229-231) was located between the Hamilton East town belt and Hillcrest.

Image: Semi rural area of Hamilton

Peacocke's farm (Lots 225-228) included land now occupied by the University on northside near Ruakura

Lieutenant John Peacocke was granted 250 acres from the Hamilton East town belt to Ruakura.

Semi rural area of Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: University of Waikato, Hillcrest, Hamilton

Raynor's land sold to neighbour Peacocke & town acre gifted to Methodists

Raynor’s land lay between Peacocke's farm and Cambridge Road. He focused on his medical practice rather than on farming.

University of Waikato, Hillcrest, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Farmland on western slopes subdivided in 1900s:

In the 1900s the land on the western slopes of Hillcrest was surveyed and subdivided. By 1901 there were two main owners - the Ruakura State Farm and the land lying to the west of Hillcrest Road which was owned by Auckland solicitor Edward Robert Nolan Russell. During 1906-7, the Russell property was purchased by various people for residential sections and to lease to farmers. Lots 15-17 and 19-24 were bought by Joseph Croke Darby who also acquired the northern part of Lot 18 in 1922. Darby was a Roman Catholic Priest and leased his land to farmers.  

Image: Scene in Hamilton including Ruakura Research Station

Farmland on western slopes subdivided in 1900s & ownership changed

Scene in Hamilton including Ruakura Research Station

Alexander Turnbull Library

Hamilton residents aged 50 - 75 years old were interviewed about their lives as young adults in the 1930s-50s as part of the Hamilton Public Library Youth Oral History Project. For memories of the Knighton area when at primary school during World War II, listen to Lester Bowler's story. 

Hospital proposed in 1940s:

In July 1941 the property owned by Darby was transferred to the Public Trustee and in May 1947 transferred to the Waikato Hospital Board. In November 1949, the southern half pf Lot 18, which had successive owners, was acquired by the Crown. (See History of the Waikato Campus, p. 7, 8).  However, the proposed chest hospital was not built as the decline in tuberculosis cases had reduced demand for the hospital.

No.5 Dairy Farm & Cowshed established in 1950s:

 During the 1950s, the "No 5 Dairy Farm" was established on the Hospital Board Land by the Ruakura Research Station. 

Image: The Cowshed, 1964

No.5 Dairy Farm & iconic Cowshed (built 1953)

During 1950s Ruakura's No. 5 Dairy Farm was sited on Waikato Hospital Board land.

The Cowshed, 1964

University of Waikato

Present-day: Housing & University Campus & St. John's College:

Nowadays some of this land on the western slopes of Hillcrest forms the Knighton Road / Old Farm Road / Ruakura Road area, part housing, part university campus, and the St. John's College whose front entrance is off Hillcrest Road. A new road was constructed in 1930 which was named Knighton Road in 1947 by the Hamilton City Council. The University moved to the site in 1964 after the land was made available to the University and Hamilton Teachers' College under the Public Works Act 1962. 

Image: Hamilton Teacher's College

Knighton Road

A new road was constructed in 1930 and named "Knighton Road" in 1947 by Hamilton City Council.

Hamilton Teacher's College

Hamilton City Libraries

Southern slopes of Hillcrest - Waikato River:

Farming:

Highlander Captain James McPherson farmed his allotted land along the eastern slopes to the banks of the Waikato River from Riverlea to the Hamilton Gardens near Cobham Bridge. The homestead is featured in a Waikato Times article: Memory box:  Riverlea. McPherson also set up a flax-dressing mill on Manaonua Stream, near Tamahere. He became involved in local and national politics - Kirikiriroa Highway Board Secretary (1868), first Member of Parliament for Waikato (1871), and Clerk and Treasurer to the newly-established Waikato County Council (1876-1905).  

Image: Cobham Drive Bridge approaches, under construction, Hamilton

Captain James McPherson farmed his land & named his property Riverlea

Riverlea Road named c1910-1920 & became part of Hamilton boundary in 1961/2

Cobham Drive Bridge approaches, under construction, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Bretton Orchard:

Bretton Orchard was established on Hillcrest's southern slopes along the Cambridge Road which adjoined the Hamilton Borough Boundary. The original homestead was built in 1869. According to Waikato Times adverts the orchard grew a variety of apples including Jonothan, Pearmain, Delicious and Winesaps.  The orchard was subdivided into sections of 2.5 to 14 acres in size in 1919 (see Papers Past: Waikato Times).  Bretton Orchard's "house, implements and sundries" were offered for sale by Mr W.F. Sinclair in 1922 (see Papers Past; Waikato Times).  Bretton Terrace was named in 1950 after Bretton Orchard by then owners J.P. Flynn and R.A. Forster who also named Flynn Road in 1940.

9. HILLCREST ROAD WAS NAMED IN 1904

The road running atop the crest of Steele's Hill was named Hillcrest Road by the Waikato County Council in 1904. (See Kete Hamilton for the origin of street names.)  

Image: Power poles

Hillcrest Road - looking south from Gate 5. (Dec 1965)

Installing power poles along Hillcrest Rd which runs atop the crest from Hillcrest shops to the University

Power poles

University of Waikato

10. STEELE'S HILL RENAMED HILLCREST in 1940s

As Hamilton's population increased and its boundaries extended, the Waikato County Council renamed Steele's Hill as Hillcrest in the 1940s. Today, the Hillcrest suburb spans both sides of the hill with views overlooking the Hamilton City basin on one side and farmland stretching to the Kaimai Range and Mt. Te Aroha on the other. The hill's slopes are gentle rising as can seen from these photographs of the western slope looking up towards the University Science block and the eastern slope looking up to the School of Management building. The Hillcrest roundabout at the southern end near Hillcrest Normal School provides the gateway into Hamilton from Cambridge (State Highway 1) and Morrinville (State Highway 26) and further afield.    

Image: Central Hamilton, Waikato Region, including Hamilton Courthouse and Waikato River

View from central Hamilton looking towards Hamilton East and Hillcrest, with Kaimai Range in the distance

Central Hamilton, Waikato Region, including Hamilton Courthouse and Waikato River

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: F, E, D and C Blocks across Chapel Lake

Hillcrest's western slope

View from Chapel Lake on western slope of Hillcrest hill towards University Science Block.

F, E, D and C Blocks across Chapel Lake

University of Waikato

Image: Management Building from parking area below

Hillcrest's eastern slope

View of School of Management looking up from the lower carpark, which was part of the former Sunnyside Orchard.

Management Building from parking area below

University of Waikato

11. HAMILTON CITY (1945) & HILLCREST A NEW SUBURB (1949)

At first the growth in population in Hamilton was slow with only about 250 people by 1868. The numbers increased to more than 2100 by 1906, with a further 800 people living outside the boundary in Claudelands and Frankton. The borough of Hamilton continued to expand, taking in Claudelands in 1912 and amalgamating with Frankton  in 1917.  The 1945 census showed Hamilton’s population reached 22,000, enabling the borough to become a city. The city’s boundaries expanded with the development of new suburbs including Hillcrest (1949), Enderley, Beerescourt and Melville.  (See Hamilton New Zealand)   

For a trip down memory lane, hear former Hillcrest residents aged 50 - 75 years old being interviewed about their lives as young adults in the 1930s, 40s and 50s as part of the Hamilton Public Library Youth Oral History Project   For example: Joan Cumming and Lester Bowler.

Hamilton as depicted in 1966

Article in An encyclopedia of New Zealand

HAMILTON

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: CITY OF SERVICE. HAMILTON

1949 documentary on Hamilton

CITY OF SERVICE. HAMILTON

Ngā Taonga Sound & Vision

12. Stores & Homes

On 29 November 1961, Abel’s Supermarket opened in Hillcrest - it was one of New Zealand’s earliest supermarkets, and Hamilton’s first. Wynn Abel (1911-1995) was a Tamahere resident from 1968 to 1989, owning with wife Jean, Malabar Farm on Airport Rd. They bred thoroughbred racehorses, including Van der Hum who won the Melbourne Cup in 1976. (See Tamahere Forum.) 

Image: Hillcrest Motors

Hillcrest Motors near State Highway 1 southern roundabout near Hillcrest Normal School (1950s).

Hillcrest Motors

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Hillcrest Motors and Abel's supermarket

Hillcrest Motors & Abel's Supermarket (1960s).

Hillcrest Motors and Abel's supermarket

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Erwin Leonard Guy Abel with his son Len in Abel's Supermarket, Hillcrest, Hamilton

Abel's Supermarket( (1961) at State Highway 1 southern roundabout near Hillcrest Normal School.

Erwin Leonard Guy Abel with his son Len in Abel's Supermarket, Hillcrest, Hamilton

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Naylor St Auto Services Ltd

Naylor Street Auto Services at corner of Dey Street (now Wairere Drive) (1984).

Naylor St Auto Services Ltd

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Michael W. Tuck Motors

Michael W. Tuck Motors was located next to shops on Masters Avenue.

Michael W. Tuck Motors

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: HillcrestLibrary

Hillcrest Library (2011) at Masters Avenue (relocated from former remodelled house next to Hillcrest shops).

HillcrestLibrary

Aotearoa People's Network Kaharoa

Image: The Hillcrest Tavern (Various events)

Hillcrest Tavern "The Hilly" was on corner of Clyde & York St near Knighton Rd. Popular watering hole for Univ students!

The Hillcrest Tavern (Various events)

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: At Hillcrest home (Hamilton)

At Hillcrest home (Hamilton)

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

Image: House, Hillcrest; Hamilton

House, Hillcrest; Hamilton

Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa

13. Schools

Hillcrest School: 1923 -

Hillcrest School (now Hillcrest Normal School) was officially opened on 4 April 1923 with two classrooms and a headmaster’s room.  

Image: Progress of Hamilton

Hillcrest School opened on 4 April 1923

Progress of Hamilton

Auckland Libraries

Image: Hillcrest school

Hillcrest school

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Hillcrest School Jubilee

Hillcrest School Jubilee

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Hillcrest School Jubilee

Hillcrest School Jubilee

Hamilton City Libraries

Hillcrest High School: 1972 -

Hillcrest High School opened in January 1972. 

ST JOHN'S COLLEGE: 1962-

When the Russell  property west of Hillcrest Road was subdivided in 1906-7,  Lots 13-14 were acquired by farmer James Moroney. Later in September 1919,  Moroney transferred this land to The Institute de Notre Dame des Missions Trust Board, who transferred it to the Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Auckland in 1960. A Roman Catholic boys' secondary school, St. John's College, was built and opened in 1962. The College had initially opened at Marist School (now Marian Catholic School) in 1961 and transferred to its new site in October the following year. See aerial flyover of present-day buildings and grounds.

Catholic Diocese acquire land

Farmer James Moroney sold his land to The Institute de Notre Dame des Missions Trust Board in 1919.

St John's College, Hamilton

Wikipedia

Image: St John's College, Auckland

St. John's College built 1961

The College initally opened at Marist School (now Marion Catholic School) in 1961 & shifted in Oct 1962.

St John's College, Auckland

Alexander Turnbull Library

14. Hamilton Teachers' College - WaikAto school of           education

The Hamilton Teachers' College was first located in Melville at what is now Melville High School; then moved to its current Hillcrest site in 1964. The College merged with the University of Waikato in 1991, to become New Zealand’s first fully professional School of Education.   

Image: Opening of Hamilton Teachers' College (1965)

Opening of Hamilton Teachers' College (1965)

Archives New Zealand Te Rua Mahara o te Kāwanatanga

Image: Looking south along Hillcrest Road, 1979

Aerial view of northern end of Hillcrest Road at intersection with Silverdale Road.

Looking south along Hillcrest Road, 1979

University of Waikato

Image: Close-up of model of projected campus

1960s model of projected campus

Close-up of model of projected campus

University of Waikato

15. University of Waikato takes shape

In 1964 the University of Waikato was officially opened and shaped development of the area over the next decades. The Ministry of Works, led by  Assistant Government Architect J.R. Blake-Kelly, laid out a masterplan in which the academic buildings stood on the high ground, halls of residence on the low ground on the opposite side of the campus, with student facilities located between them. As the University grew so did the need for student accommodation. Infill housing and student accommodation blocks began to overtake the acre sections that were a character of Hillcrest.  (See University of Waikato: History)  

Image: Model of projected campus

Model of projected campus

University of Waikato

Image: Aerial of Hamilton

Waikato University along Hillcrest Road, 1976

Aerial of Hamilton

Hamilton City Libraries

Growth of Faculties and buildings:

  • 1964: Initially, the University comprised the School of Humanities and a School of Social Sciences 
  • 1969: School of Science (now the Faculty of Science and Engineering) was established  
  • 1972: Centre for Māori Studies and Research was set up in the School of Social Sciences
  • 1972: Waikato Management School 
  • 1973: Computer Science and Computing Services (which became the Faculty of Computing and Mathematical Sciences)
  • 1987: Te Kohinga Mārama Marae opened  as part of the College of Education 
  • 1990: School (now Te Piringa - Faculty of Law sited in a new building since 2016 at Gate 7) 
  • 1991: School of Education which became Te Kura Toi Tangata Faculty of Education 
  • 1996: School of Māori and Pacific Development was established (now Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao - Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies)  
  • 1999: Schools of Humanities and Social Sciences were merged to form the School (later Faculty) of Arts and Social Sciences
  • 2001: Performing Arts Academy built alongside Knighton Lake  
  • 2010: The tertiary partnership was widened to include Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi in the Eastern Bay of Plenty
  • 2011:  Te Kotahi Research Institute 

See current list of divisions, faculties and schools: The University of Waikato: About us: Structure and the Campus map.  The University is also building The Pā which will provide a new main entrance to the campus, a student hub (including food outlets and social learning spaces) and a new University marae. Demolition of the former Law School building and W block and the gutting of A block began in 2019 for completion in mid 2022.  See: https://www.waikato.ac.nz/major-projects/the-pa

Image: University Campus, 1965

University Campus, 1965

University of Waikato

Image: University buildings: University of Waikato campus, 1969

University buildings: University of Waikato campus, 1969

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Aerial of Hamilton

View of Waikato University over Hillcrest Road, ca. 1976

Aerial of Hamilton

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Aerial view looking east, 1988

Aerial view looking east, 1988

University of Waikato

For a snapshot history of the design of each Campus building, see The University of Waikato 1964-2014.

John Robson summarises through maps and photographs the development of the Campus buildings & grounds.

History of the University of Waikato Campus

University of Waikato

Image: Teachers' College and A Block

Teachers' College and A Block

University of Waikato

Image: A Block on the hill, 1965

A Block on the hill, 1965

University of Waikato

Image: Temporary Buildings arriving

Temporary Buildings arriving

University of Waikato

Image: A Block and TB1. 1966

A Block and TB1. 1966

University of Waikato

Image: University gates, 1967

University gates, 1967

University of Waikato

Image: B Block beginnings

B Block beginnings

University of Waikato

Image: B Block under construction

B Block under construction

University of Waikato

Image: B Block in 1970

B Block with its clock tower was the administrative centre.

B Block in 1970

University of Waikato

Image: Oranga Lake, 1979

Oranga cafetaria overlooking Oranga Lake

Oranga Lake, 1979

University of Waikato

Image: Oranga Cafeteria

Oranga Cafeteria

University of Waikato

Image: The view from Gate 5

View of Oranga with B Block on the left

The view from Gate 5

University of Waikato

Image: C Block under construction

C Block under construction

University of Waikato

Image: ITS Building, 1971

ITS Building, 1971

University of Waikato

Image: ITS Building, 1972

ITS Building, 1972

University of Waikato

Image: Gate 1 Carpark, 1979

Gate 1 Carpark, 1979

University of Waikato

Image: F, E, D and C Blocks

F, E, D and C Blocks

University of Waikato

Image: G Block

G Block

University of Waikato

Image: J Block and Chapel Lake

J Block and Chapel Lake

University of Waikato

Image: I, J and K Blocks

I, J and K Blocks

University of Waikato

Image: Karanga

Te Kohinga Mārama Marae was opened in 1987

The Meeting House is Te Ao Hurihuri and the Dining Hall is Te Otinga. Access is via Gate 4 off Hillcrest Road.

Karanga

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Recreation Centre from the air

Recreation Centre, 1988

Recreation Centre from the air

University of Waikato

Image: The Law School after opening

Law School, 1990

The Law School after opening

University of Waikato

Image: Langauge Institute side

Language Institute, 1991

Langauge Institute side

University of Waikato

Image: University Campus, 1992

University Campus, 1992

University Campus, 1992

University of Waikato

Image: Autumn colours

University Campus, c. 1992

Autumn colours

University of Waikato

THE ICONIC COWSHED:

The Cowshed was originally built in 1953 on Ruakura's No. 5 Dairy Farm. Over the years it once housed the Waikato Students' Union administration, the president's office, NEXUS and Radio Contact 89FM (the transmitter was set up on the top of the Library).

Image: The Cowshed to McMeekan's orchard

Feb 1967: Renovated Cowshed on University grounds.

The Cowshed to McMeekan's orchard

University of Waikato

THE STATION:

The Station on Hillcrest Road is the former main railway station built in 1879. The building was relocated from Victoria Street after 1967 when the Hamilton Central underground train station was built.  Vice-Chancellor Don Llewellyn initially planned to use it as a temporary Student Union building; then it was set up as the Common Room for staff. It became known for a number of years as the Station Café and Bar which was used by staff and students. 

Image: Hamilton Railway Station

Disused Hamilton station building before it was shifted from Victoria St to the University

Hamilton Railway Station

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Hamilton railway station

The building was derelict shortly after the railway was lowered and a new underground station was built

Hamilton railway station

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: Hamilton Railway Station

The removal of the Hamilton railway building

Hamilton Railway Station

Hamilton City Libraries

Student accommodation:

Bryant Hall built on Knighton Road

In 1970 the University leased about 3 acres to D.V. Bryant Trust to build two 3-storey buildings and a chaplain's house.

Waikato to be Residential - Salient: Victoria University Students' Paper. Vol. 30, No. 9. 1967.

Victoria University of Wellington

Image: Oranga in place next to lake

Bryant Hall (on left) & Student Village (right) with Cowshed & Oranga in foreground

Students had their meals at Oranga. Later on catering facilities established at Bryant Hall & Student Village.

Oranga in place next to lake

University of Waikato

Image: Student Village and lake, 1969

Student Village and lake, 1969

University of Waikato

Image: Student Village, 1977

Student Village, 1977

University of Waikato

Image: A student's room in 1989

A student's room in 1989

University of Waikato

Image: Orchard Park chalets

Orchard Park

Accommodation built on former Sunnyside (McMiken) Orchard on Silverdale Road.

Orchard Park chalets

University of Waikato

The University Library:

Image: Recently completed A Block, 1964

Jenny King was appointed the University's first librarian in 1967.

Recently completed A Block, 1964

University of Waikato

Image: A Block Stairwell. 1966

A Block Stairwell. 1966

University of Waikato

Image: The Library in A Block

The Library in A Block

University of Waikato

Image: The Library, 1971

The Library, 1971

University of Waikato

Image: The Ballantrae Collection

The Ballantrae Collection

University of Waikato

Image: The Library under construction

New library under construction, 1975

The Library under construction

University of Waikato

Image: Flooded paddocks

View of library (on the right) being built

Flooded paddocks

University of Waikato

Image: The Library, 1979

The Library, 1979

University of Waikato

Image: The Library being extended

The Library being extended

University of Waikato

Image: East wing - 28 August 2009

Library's new east wing

East wing - 28 August 2009

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Pouwhenua | Whare Thompson

Pouwhenua | Whare Thompson

University of Waikato

Image: Tāwhaki

Te Puna Wai Mātauranga is the whakairo (carving) at the main entrance to the University of Waikato Library.

Tāwhaki

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Featherweight | Paul Dibble

Featherweight | Paul Dibble

University of Waikato

Image: Aurei | Rangi Kipa

Aurei | Rangi Kipa

University of Waikato

University lakes - Knighton, Oranga & Chapel Lakes 

The Campus Lakes Knighton, Oranga and Chapel were formed to help drain the wet, swampy land the Unversity was sited on.

Image: Knighton and Oranga Lakes, 1969

Knighton and Oranga Lakes, 1969

University of Waikato

Image: Early views of the Lakes

Early views of the Lakes

University of Waikato

Image: Chapel Lake taking shape, 1972

Chapel Lake taking shape, 1972

University of Waikato

Image: Lady Goodfellow Chapel

Lady Goodfellow Chapel

University of Waikato

Image: Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Looking towards the University Library

Looking towards the University Library

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

View from University lake towards the Admin block atop the western slope.

Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Academy of Performing Arts

Academy of Performing Arts

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Campus grounds and walkways:

Image: Campus grounds, 1977

Campus grounds, 1977

University of Waikato

Image: Students walking through Campus

Students walking through Campus

University of Waikato

Image: Lamp posts on campus

Lamp posts on campus

University of Waikato

Image: Waikato University campus pathway

Waikato University campus pathway

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Waikato University Campus, Hamilton, NZ

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Exotic trees

Exotic trees

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: Aerial view looking south, 1988

Aerial view looking south, 1988

University of Waikato

Image: Rugby on the University fields

Rugby on the University fields

University of Waikato

Image: Koanga | Eugene Kara

Koanga | Eugene Kara

University of Waikato

Image: Pou Powhiri | Donn Ratana

Pou Powhiri | Donn Ratana

University of Waikato

Image: Unu | Jo'el Komene

Unu | Jo'el Komene

University of Waikato

Image: L Blocks | Sophie Hermann

L Blocks | Sophie Hermann

University of Waikato

Staff and students:

Image: University of Waikato

University of Waikato officially opened on 26 Feb 1965 by the Governor-General Brigadier Sir Bernard Fergusson

University of Waikato

Hamilton City Libraries

Image: University opening procession, 1965

University of Waikato's official opening, 1965

University opening procession, 1965

University of Waikato

Image: Professorial Board, 1965

Professorial Board, 1965

University of Waikato

Image: Dame Evelyn Stokes

Dame Evelyn Stokes joined the Dept of Geography in 1964 as a lecturer and later was appointed as Professor until 2005

Dame Evelyn Stokes

Tauranga City Libraries

Michael Selby began as junior lecturer in Earth Sciences in 1964 & ended as a Deputy Vice Chancellor

In memoriam Michael J. Selby (1936-2018)

University of Waikato

Image: Jane and James Ritchie

Professors Jane & James Ritchie: Dpt. of Psychology

Jane and James Ritchie

Manatū Taonga, the Ministry for Culture and Heritage

Image: The First Graduation ceremony in 1967 Waikato Times 1967

First Graduation Ceremony, 1967

The First Graduation ceremony in 1967 Waikato Times 1967

University of Waikato

Image: A tutorial taking place

A tutorial taking place

University of Waikato

Image: A student occupation

A student occupation

University of Waikato

Waikato Students' Union newsletter on services, clubs, events.

Nexus [electronic resource].

National Library of New Zealand

16. Waikato-Tainui regain land (1995)

 Waikato-Tainui settled grievances with the Crown with the 1995 Waikato-Tainui Raupatu Claims Settlement Act.  

When Tainui Group Holdings proposed building an inland port, the heritage values of Ruakura – land, buildings and trees – were raised with the Hamilton City Council as part of the 2015 submission process to the Ruakura Variation - Plan Change 1. (See Waikato Times: Memory box)   

Image: The Maori Queen, and her husband, in the public gallery of Parliament, Wellington, to witness the enactment of the Waikato Tainui land settlement - Photograph taken by Craig Simcox

The Māori Queen, Dame Te Atairangikaahu, and her husband Whatumoana Paki witness the signing

The Maori Queen, and her husband, in the public gallery of Parliament, Wellington, to witness the enactment of the Waikato Tainui land settlement -...

Alexander Turnbull Library

Image: Works starts on phase one of inland port project

Inland port facilities at Ruakura

There will be a logistics freight hub & industrial, commercial and residential development.

Works starts on phase one of inland port project

Radio New Zealand

Further information:

(This DigitalNZ story was compiled in 2019)