Antrim House is a majestic mansion that provides insights into life in Wellington at the beginning of the 20th century. Named for the owner’s home county in what is now Northern Ireland, it blends the Victorian and Edwardian Italianate styles popular at the time. Visit Antrim House to learn about the business magnate Robert Hannah and his wife, remarkably named Hannah, who built this impressive structure.
Consider the rich history of the building, which has served as a private hotel and a public hostel for young men. Enter through the elegant portico and speak with a docent in the reception area. Look around the main hallway and appreciate the kauri wood paneling and staircase. Baroque ceilings and stained-glass windows of varying styles add to the glamor inside this mansion.
The building caught fire in 1940, destroying many of the original artifacts left by the Hannahs, who had raised their family in the house. It was later reconstructed, with a few changes to its design. Rent out the majestic Hannah Room for your own ceremony or event. When not in use, the drawing room is open for visitors to explore.
Read up on Robert Hannah, who started as a bootmaker apprentice in Ireland’s County Antrim, before emigrating to New Zealand and opening his first shop in 1868. He enjoyed great success and married Hannah Ferguson, who took his last name. She became Hannah Hannah, a rare full-named palindrome.
Visit the house for free. It opens Monday through Friday from morning until late afternoon. Arrange a group tour by booking in advance.
Find Antrim House in the heart of Wellington, between Te Aro and Thorndon. Travel to the Wellington railway station and walk south for about 15 minutes to reach the building. While in the area, stop at other nearby highlights such as the Wellington Cable Car, the Wellington Waterfront and the City Gallery Wellington.
