Last updated June 2026
Broadgreen Historic House in Nelson offers visitors a chance to step inside a rare surviving example of mid-19th century cob construction and experience domestic life from the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Built for the Buxton family around 1855, the two-storey house retains much of its original character and is now operated as a museum by Nelson City Council. It houses one of New Zealand’s most significant historic clothing and textile collections alongside period furnishings and household items. The adjacent Samuels Rose Gardens add seasonal colour and a pleasant setting for a visit. The house is listed as a Category 1 historic place by Heritage New Zealand.
Practical Information
| Address | 276 Nayland Road, Stoke, Nelson |
| Opening hours | Monday–Saturday 11:30am–3:00pm (last entry 2:30pm); Sunday 10:30am–4:00pm (last entry 3:30pm) |
| Admission | Free for Nelson and Tasman residents; $8 for non-resident visitors over 16; children 16 and under free |
| Closed | Christmas Day and Good Friday |
| Parking | Free on-site parking available |
| Pets | Not permitted |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair accessible toilet in Broadgreen Centre; some areas of the historic house may have limited access |
| Contact | br********@******vt.nz | 03 547 0403 |
About Broadgreen Historic House
Broadgreen Historic House is a two-storey cob cottage constructed between 1854 and 1857 for Edmund and Martha Buxton and their six daughters. The Buxtons had immigrated from Lancashire, England, and Edmund established a successful merchant business in Nelson. The house is an unusually large and well-preserved example of cob construction in New Zealand, with walls formed from clay excavated on site mixed with dung, straw or horsehair.
The property remained in family hands for over a century. After the Buxtons, it passed to their daughter Cordelia and was sold in 1901 to Fred and Mary Langbein, whose descendants lived there until 1965. Nelson City Council purchased the house and five acres that year. Following renovations, the Friends of Broadgreen opened it as a museum in 1968. It is now managed by Nelson City Council with support from volunteers and the Broadgreen Society.
The house is listed as a Category 1 historic place by Heritage New Zealand for its architectural and historical significance. It retains original features such as plaster finishes, an overhanging roof, and period room layouts that reflect Victorian distinctions between public and private spaces. Visitors can explore furnished rooms including a kitchen, dairy, bedrooms, and a gentleman’s study.
Collections and Exhibitions
Broadgreen Historic House holds one of New Zealand’s most significant historic clothing and textile collections. Garments on display include 19th-century gowns, men’s smocks, and decorative pieces that illustrate fashion and domestic life for early European settlers. The house collection features antique furniture, wooden objects, and household items, many donated by local families. Changing exhibitions highlight different aspects of the collections and local history throughout the year.
Visiting with Children and Interactive Experiences
Children can enjoy the large rocking horse and the Box Room, an interactive space where they can dress up in period clothing and engage in hands-on historical activities. The museum offers family-friendly programmes and workshops during school holidays. The surrounding gardens provide space for picnics and exploration.
Samuels Rose Gardens
The Samuels Rose Gardens adjoin the house on land that was once part of the Broadgreen estate. Established in 1968, the gardens contain around 3,000 rose plants representing more than 560 named varieties, including heritage roses brought by early settlers. The gardens are free to visit and complement a house tour, especially during the summer flowering season.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the authentic Victorian and Edwardian interiors and the opportunity to see how a prosperous Nelson family lived in the 19th century. Many comment on the well-preserved cob construction details and the quality of the textile displays. Families enjoy the interactive dress-up area and rocking horse, while the adjacent rose gardens are frequently praised for their beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Reviewers often note the helpful volunteer guides who share stories about the Buxton and Langbein families. The modest admission fee and free entry for locals are seen as good value. Some mention that certain areas have steps or limited wheelchair access, but the overall experience is described as educational and atmospheric.
Where to Learn More
Broadgreen Historic House official website: Current opening hours, admission fees, exhibitions and venue hire information.
Heritage New Zealand listing: Detailed heritage assessment, construction history and significance statement.
Nelson City Council: Information on council-managed heritage sites and contact details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Broadgreen Historic House open every day?
Yes, it is open daily except Christmas Day and Good Friday. Hours vary slightly between weekdays and Sunday.
Do I need to book in advance?
No advance booking is required for general visits. Payment is made on arrival.
Are guided tours available?
Knowledgeable volunteer guides are often on site to share stories; self-guided visits are also welcome.
Can I hire the venue for an event?
The Le Cren Room in the Broadgreen Centre is available for hire for meetings and small functions.
Is there parking?
Free on-site parking is available for visitors.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are not permitted on the property to protect the historic collections and gardens.
Is the house wheelchair accessible?
The Broadgreen Centre has a wheelchair accessible toilet. Access within the historic house itself is limited due to its age and layout.
How can I volunteer?
Contact the house directly via email or phone to enquire about volunteer opportunities in guiding, conservation or events.
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