Walk Details

NZ Walking Routes > Auckland > North Auckland > North Shore > Chelsea Sugar Refinery

Chelsea Sugar Refinery

Location

At the end of Colonial Road, off Mokoia Road near Highbury shopping centre; foot access from Chelsea Bay.

Description

Among the country's first steps into the industrial era, Chelsea Sugar Refinery began operations in 1884. The large estate in which the refinery still operates has matured into a beautiful, privately owned park. New Zealand Sugar Company allows public access to the grounds, which feature the old water supply lakes and interesting walkways connecting to the adjoining Chatswood Reserve and Kauri Point Centennial Park. The walk takes you through regenerating kanuka forest. Please note that access for large vehicles such as buses is difficult to the site as there is no public turning circle. Due to Health & Safety regulations, the company does not do refinery tours, however a video tour can be viewed on the company website www.chelsea.co.nz

The Chelsea Refinery is located on a site of approximately 54 hectares of native flora and fauna. This includes about 9 hectares of ponds. The Chelsea Estate contains a series of four fresh water ponds. The lakes contain mosquito fish, large koi carp and rudd. Pied shags can be seen nesting in several trees overhanging the lower lake. Four brick duplex cottages built in 1909 line the left side of Colonial Road in the Chelsea estate. They are owned by New Zealand Sugar and lease to private residents.The Chelsea wharf was originally constructed in 1884 with recent alterations undertaken in 1997.

Amenities

• Historical

Source

Chelsea.co.nz

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