History

Cotter House represents the finest example of Heritage in New Zealand. The fifth oldest house in Auckland, it is a NZ icon, and prime example of historic conservation and renovation in New Zealand. A rare example of Regency style, it is considered  a smaller version of Kirribilli House in Sydney. The story of Cotter House and how it fits into the tapestry of New Zealand's heritage begins in 1847 with an enterprising English colonist named Joseph Newman who came to New Zealand in 1840. He paid 20 shillings an acre to Te Moana, of the Orakei tribe for the 60-acre farm. The house is a symbol of Newman's good fortune in his new country

Ironically perhaps, Joseph Newman died in 1892 of head injuries when a billboard advertising whiskey fell on his head. As a well-known teetotaller, he died childless at the age of 77. His house and the surrounding land were sold to the Cotter family in 1882, who owned it until 1926.

Joseph Newman did a first subdivision in the 1880's and developed the land into what we now know as the suburb of Remuera . The story says that because Thomas Cotter loved to dance and had 3 daughters, they added a ballroom to the house in 1892. All 3 daughters married but only one had descendants.  Later, the Cotters subdivided the land further, gifting land to the Municipality for the Library - also built in 1926 - and to St. Aidan's Anglican Church.

Bought by the Segar family in 1930, Cotter House fell into a period of decline from 1954, which was exacerbated by piecemeal renovations in 1978 and 1984. Like a rare few of New Zealands' old historic properties, it has a colourful past and many stories have been told.  After having been blessed, it now harbours a unique collection of religious icons reflecting the traditions of many religious denominations and is the centre of many happy ceremonies.  With the completion of a recent $2 million overhaul however, this splendid property has been restored to its original grandeur. Each of the retreat's 2 suites and 2 guestrooms have been revamped with sophisticated furnishings and modern amenities, including wireless internet, dedicated laptops , SKY satellite TV,  LCD  HD televisions, iPod docking stations,  tea/coffee and ironing facilities. Eye-catching new event space and outdoor areas completes the renewed atmosphere of refined Regency elegance, truly delivering luxury for our time.

Today, the mansion springs to life with renewed splendour. Combining exquisite antiques with an extensive modern art collection, Cotter House boasts a classic French décor that reflects the continental flair of its current owner, Gloria Poupard-Walbridge.

Colombian born, French raised Gloria came to New Zealand in July 1985 for a 3-month school holiday that turned into a life commitment,  and lived through the upheaval of the GREENPEACE (Rainbow Warrior) affair. Her husband, French Trade commissioner for New Zealand and the South Pacific at the time, was in charge of the Rainbow Warrior compensation.  It was the start of a love affair with this country and Gloria has never looked back. 

Gloria is a consummate hostess with 21 years experience in the diplomatic service. Her lovely character and warmth underlay the Cotter House experience.

Bringing Cotter House back to its former splendour and contributing to preserving a significant piece of New Zealand heritage became her dream. Cotter House has since been featured in a number of prestigious publications and TV programmes. 

The vision behind Cotter House is that art can be part of daily life. At Cotter House, art is an unexpected encounter, a new idea, a starting point for a lively conversation. It is integral to the experience; it is not merely decoration but is at the core of the unique character of Cotter House as an Art Hotel. Visitors find themselves engaging with the art immediately upon arrival. They are surrounded by art objects and antiques from many  different periods and places.  Permanent installations such as the Arthur Amon's Hump back Sushi  draw people in to the whimsy and fun at the very core of the Cotter House experience..

What will guests rave about to their friends and family?

Art is around every corner at Cotter House — in the courtyard, hallways,  gardens and in the Ballroom. Installations flow out onto the garden and the property opens to the public and passersby during Auckland's Heritage Festival, or for private guided viewings. It's a different, and complementary, art experience from what traditional museums offer.