Te Waimate Mission House, NZ Historic Places Trust

The only survivor of three mission houses built in 1832, Te Waimate is the second oldest building in New Zealand. Originally built to house the family of missionary George Clarke, its peaceful pastoral surroundings were once the busy scene of New Zealand's first large English-style farm, with wheat fields, a water mill, and blacksmith's shop as well as the chapel, school rooms, houses and cottages. It was set up to instruct locals in farming techniques and to supply other missions with food.

The house is furnished with missionary period furniture and early tools. Nearby, the Bedggood Buildings include the ruins of a cottage and a reconstructed blacksmith's shop, together with archaeological features and historic trees.