Join us for an engaging talk by Felicity Goodyear-Smith on her fully-illustrated book about Dacre Cottage, built in 1855 by Captain Ranulph Dacre. Discover the rich history of Dacre’s family, his sailing adventures, and his connections to key figures like John Logan Campbell and George Grey. In the 1830s and 1840s Dacre owned the Weiti block and the land around the Tāwharanui Peninsula, much of Mahurangi and the Whangaparaoa Peninsula. The talk will also dive into the fascinating story of Dacre and Gordon Davis Browne’s ill-fated spar station at Mahurangi.

Learn about the community’s efforts to protect this coastal heritage between the Weiti and Ōkura Rivers. All proceeds from the book will support the ongoing preservation of the Cottage and its surrounding reserves. Donors over $100 will receive a free copy and be acknowledged in the book!

Cost: $10 entrance fee

Booking essential: [email protected]

Painting: Commissioned by Mahurangi Action and friends, showing Gordon Browne's spar station and work boat astern the HMS Buffalo by artist Paul Deacon