Windmills of New Zealand (Mock Mills)



Mock Mills

Auckland - Sylvia Park (#nzmock20)

(-36.9154,174.841)
Lilliputt - Around the World Minigolf: model Dutch windmill, on a minigolf course: [homepage] [info] [photo]

Avalon Park, Lower Hutt (#nzmock8)

(-41.1938,174.931)
The Smiling Windmills: scupltures:
Three brightly coloured oversized beach windmills, by sculptor Leon van den Eijkel, installed in the late 2000's.
The Smiling Windmills, Avalon Park, 14/10/17
Signboard says:
THE SMILING WINDMILLS
Leon Van De Eijkel
August 2008
"A a child growing up in Holland, life was exciting and full of joy; the clouds, the rain, the sea and nature played with us. Irksome wind is an adult thing. in The Smiling Windmills I recall my childhood and the joy the wind gave me. I want to share it with everyone as a positive souce of energy."
Leon Van De Eijkel
E Tu
Awakairangi Hutt Public Art Trust
www.etu.org.nz
With the support of:
Hutt City Council
Rotary Club of Hutt City
Silbery Longrun Ltd
[photo]

[Waymarking]

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Associated people

Coatesville (#nzmock13)

(-36.7166,174.640)
Windmill Orchard:

The last PYO orchard in Auckland, which closed to the public in summer 2015. The front of the produce shop (possibly still open) was in the form of a 2D windmill.

[homepage] [photo]

Dannevirke (#nzmock3)

(-40.2089,176.098)
Date: 1990

An eight sided, two storey building, used for retail purposes, with unconvincing sails attached to the tower itself. Sited in Copenhagen Square, so meant to feed off the Danish heritage of the town.

Built in 1990. Condemned in Feb 2020, when the building was found to be rotten, and scheduled for demolition.

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[StreetView]

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Hawarden (#nzmock21)

(-42.9016,172.652)
The Dutch Station: model:

Garden model dutch mill

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Horohoro (#nzmock12)

(-38.2526,176.171)
PlentyFlora: model smock:
A model Dutch mill, at a flower growers, who hold an annual tulip festival. The greenhouses are heated geothermally.
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Nelson (#nzmock1)

(-41.2617,173.297)
Founders Heritage Park: smock mill :

Although a mock mill, with the exception of the sails, this is a fairly accurate external repesentation of Bush's Windmill that once stood in the centre of Nelson. Very much the signature building for the Founders Heritage Park, for which it provides the entrance, ticket counter, and gift shop. It also features as the park logo, which amongst other places is used on the park fire engine exhibits - rather ironic really since the original mill burnt down.

The sails of the mill are free to rotate in the wind, but the fantail is non-operational, so the sails always face the same way. Since the prevailing wind seems to be from the side of the mill (there is a quite steep hillside 'behind' the mill, which probably helps funnel the wind in this direction), this means that the wind acts on the side of the sail stocks, rather than the face of the sails - which actually results in the sails regularly rotating the wrong way round.

Nelson, 2/12/06
[homepage] [homepage] [photo] [info] [info] [photo] [photo] [photo] [photo] [photo]

Wikipedia entry

[StreetView]

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.
29 images courtesy of Tripadvisor.

Nelson (#nzmock2)

(-41.2622,173.296)
Founders Heritage Park: smock mill :
Nelson, 2/12/06

A small mock mill used in 2006 as a ticket or information booth by the car park entrance. By 2010, this had been moved to be in a more open area, and in 2018 it's in the childrens playground.

[photo]

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.
2 images courtesy of Tripadvisor.

Nelson (#nzmock9)

(-41.3353,173.158)
The Grape Escape: model:

In a cafe garden.

[homepage] [info]

Ohoka (#nzmock7)

model:

From: The Press 2003 Oct. 14, p. A8, by Prue Eckett:

Andrew and Shenleigh van't Wout of Beckenham have moved the model windmill they built in their garden because it did not meet planning requirements. It has been sold to a family in Ohoka.
Another report described it as an unusual playhouse.

Porirua (#nzmock10)

(-41.1200,174.855)
Aotea Lagoon: model:
Date: 1981

A large model windmill, with a fantail that rotates, but is purely ornamental - the main sails always face the same way. (Being in a public place, the sails need to be kept out of the way of the public.) The structure is built above the water inlet to the lagoon, but I don't believe the mill was ever designed to pump this water.

The mill can be seen in advertising photos from November 1981, but I've not tracked down newspaper reports of it being constructed.

Signboard says:
Presented to the people of Porirua by Paramata Jaycee 1981

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Rotorua (#nzmock4)

(-38.0422,176.327)
Millhaven: smock mill :
Date: 2000

10 metre high, built by Emanuel van den Bemd, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of his family immigrating to New Zealand from the Netherlands.

Used for rent in the past as a holiday cottage, but has been unavailable for many years due to being damaged in a storm.

[info] [info] [info] [photos] [photo] [photo] [photo]

[StreetView]

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Associated people

Waitomo (#nzmock5)

(-38.2487,175.159)
Lady Antonetta: smock mill :

A 20% scale model that was originally built by Cor Slobbe for the purposes of fundraising, and general public awareness whilst the planning and financing of the full size windmill at Foxton was in progress.

When the real mill was built, the model became redundant and was purchased by the current owner (who was active in the New Zealand Dutch ex-pat association), who intended that it could form a centrepiece for a Dutch garden at Hamilton Gardens. When Hamilton Gardens appeared uninterested, the mill was instead completed (it had originally been open to show the internal workings, which have not been reinstalled), and given more substantial sails, then sited in the owner's garden in 2004. Since the original installation, the model has been resited further forward in the section, since it was not receiving sufficient wind, though there was some unfounded concern by the road planning authority that it would be a distration to motorists. Prior to the installation of a gated entrance to the property, it was known for tourist buses to come up the drive to visit the model. The mill is called the Lady Antonetta after the Christian name of the owner's wife.

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Associated people

Wellington (#nzmock23)

Botanic Gardens: model:

A model Dutch windmill, which is displayed as part of the Botanic Gardens Tulip Sunday celebration in September.

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Whanganui (#nzmock14)

Steven Price: model windmill as bird house:

As reported in the Whanganui Chronicle, 9 Dec 2017, Steven Price has built a number of substantial models from reclaimed native timber, in the form of bird houses. One form these took was as a multi storied windmill, illustrated in the article.

[info] [photo] [info]


Mock Mills - Historical Locations

Auckland (#nzmock15)

Wintergardens:

A temporary model, in place at the Auckland Wintergardens in September 2009.

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Auckland (#nzmock24)

Wintergardens:

A temporary model, in place at the Auckland Wintergardens in October 2011.

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Auckland (#nzmock19)

Windmill Follies:

Windmill theming for a strip club, on Karangahape Road, near the site of Partington's windmill.

[photo] [photo]

Auckland

Floral Fete:

A float used in the 1905 Auckland Floral Fete, described as being decorated by Mesdames Hay and Butler.

[photo]

Bulls (#nzmock11)

(-40.1751,175.384)
Windmill: windmill outline above store:

Dutch products store and cafe in the early 2000's

Flickr images are copyright their individual photographers.

Hamilton (#nzmock18)

1956 parade float:

A 4 sided windmill model, used on a float in the parade to celebrate the 1956 Springbok rugby tour, hence also featuring people in Dutch costume. The float was formed on a flat bed truck from Mann Brothers Carriers, Hamilton.

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Opotiki (#nzmock16)

A temporary structure, constructed (probably on a float) by "the Dutch community" for the gala day and procession arranged by Opotiki's primary schools in 1965.

[photos]

Seatoun (#nzmock22)

This building in the large garden of Herbert Rawson's house at Seatoun was described as a Dutch windmill, though I am assuming this was really a mock mill, one of a number of often ornamental buildings built throughout the garden. Although getting multiple mentions, the available information does not amount to a great deal:

The windmill gets a number of mentions in what is effectively the newspaper gossip columns. Its first mention is due to a wedding held in the garden: Evening Post, Volume LXXXV, Issue 25, 30 January 1913

The gardens encircling Mr. Herbert Rawson's residence at Seatoun are beautiful, loving skill being spent everywhere. The stone windmill that gives such a Dutch look to its charming corner, the curving stone bridge across the quiet dam, the fountains rising, a spear of crystal from the turquoise blue bird that makes so vivid a dash of colour in the shade of tile trees, the beautiful African silver trees, all silver and palest green as the wind wills, the masses of blossom and wide, fresh green laws, and beyond a glimpse of the red roofs of Seatoun and the sapphire sea and purple hills — all made up a wonderful picture, one that will be long remembered by the guests. A large marquee had been erected, and the tables were set in this, and there the speeches took place, Mr. Slartin Chapman, Mr. Tolhurst, and Mr. Harcourt, all of whom had known the bride and her parents for many years, proposing toast's. The square-tiered wedding-cake was crowned with flowers, and silver vases of white sweet peas and heath decorated the table. From the marquee, between trees, a wide green carpet, with tubs of blue lobelias on either side, led to the gardens, the procession of guests in pretty frocks, with the bride and bridegroom in front, the sunshine and shade playing quaint fancies with feathers and chiffons, made a charming scene. The presents were beautiful, much silver and china being given, and a number of cheques. Among them was a very handsome solid silver tea and coffee service — the gift of Mr. Davison, the bridegroom's father. The bride wore, as her travelling-gown, a pretty blue tussore frock, and her wide hat was wreathed with roses. They had to run the gauntlet of a fusillade of comfetti and rose-leaves to where the motor, decked out in the most outre fashion with white flowers and old shoes, waited them. The best man and groomsmen. like the bridegroom, had all been Christ College boys.
One of a number of garden parties held in the garden: Evening Post, Volume XCVIII, Issue 181, 1 December 1919
The Seatoun and Bays Progressive Association organised a garden party, which was held in Mr. H. P. Rawson's grounds on Saturday afternoon. Although the weather really was too cold for an outdoor function, the committee did all in their power to make the afternoon enjoyable. The Tramways Band played on the lawn and a few enthusiasts danced, a thoroughly enjoyable pastime on such a cold day. Then there was plenty to be seen about the grounds, for the flowers were very fine, and Mr. Rawson's garden is well-known. An icecream stall was in charge of Mesdames Tennant and Richmond, and in spite of the cold there was a good custom. Soft drinks were sold in the dairy, Mesdames North and Kellow being in charge, and afternoon tea was served on small tables near the house, and was much appreciated, those in charge having a very busy time. Mrs. H. A. Smith, wife of the president of the association, was in charge, and with her were Mesdames Pilcher, Hull, Black, Gardiner, Baillie, Reed, Wyatt, A. P Smith, and Parton. The most popular spot was the Tower of Mystery, in charge of Mrs. Barnett, where fortunes were told. This was located in a tall stone windmill tower, and near a pond crossed by a quaint stone bridge, a most picturesque spot, and all the afternoon there was quite a queue of people waiting their turn. Shortly after three o'clock, Mr. H. A. Smith, president of the Seatoum Progressive Association, welcomed the visitors. A great deal had been done in the way of treeplanting, he said, but want of money had stopped further work. He thanked Mr. Rawson, on behalf of the association, for placing his grounds at their disposal.
A second report of the same garden party: New Zealand Times, Volume XLV, Issue 10450, 1 December 1919
GARDEN PARTY AT SEATOUN. The Seatoun and Bays Progressive Association organised a garden party, which was held in Mr H. P. Rawson's gounds on Saturday afternoon. Unfortunately a cold southerly wind was blowing and the weather was threatening all the afternoon, which somewhat marred the enjoyment of those present while it also limited the attendance. Seatoun people however, turned out, determined to do everything for their borough and in consequence the financial results should be very good. Although the weather really was too cold for an outdoor function, the committee did all in their power to make the atternoon enjoyable. The Tramways Band played on the lawn and a few enthusiasts danced, a thoroughly enjoyable pastime on such a cold day. Then there was plenty to be seen about the grounds, for the flowers were very fine, and Mr Rawson's garden is well-known. An ice-cream stall had been made in a sumnier-house, in charge of Mesdames Tennant and Richmond, and in spite of the cold there was a good custom. Soft drinks were sold in the dairy, Mesdames North and Kellow being in charge, and afternoon tea was served on small tables near the house, and was much appreciated, those in charge having a very busy time. Mrs H. A. Smith, wife of the president of the association, was in charge and with her were Mesdames Pilcher, Hull, Black, Gardiner, Baillie, Reed, Wyatt, A. P. Smith, and Parton. The most popular spot was the Tower of Mystery, in charge of Mrs Barnett, where fortunes were told. This was located in a tall stone windmill tower, and near a pond crossed by a quaint stone bridge, a most picturesque spot, and all the afternoon there was quite a queue of people waiting their turn. Shortly after three o'clock Mr H. A. Smith, president of the Seatoun Progressive Association, welcomed the visitors. They were anxious, he said, to get more money to beautify the district. A great deal had been done in the way of tree planting, but want of money had stopped further work. He thanked Mr Rawson, on behalf of the association, for placing his grounds at their disposal.
A garden party in a later year: Evening Post, Volume CIII, Issue 54, 6 March 1922
A well-arranged garden fete, which was a great credit to the organisers, the Seatoun and Bays' Progressive Association, took place at Mr. H. P. Rawson's garden on Saturday afternoon, this having been kindly placed at the disposal of the association for a special effort. It is hoped to attain a really up-to-date playground for children, and the people themselves are making every effort towards providing a fine and healthful place for the young ones. The fete was opened by His Worship the Mayor (Mr. R. A. Wright, M.P.), who was introduced by the president, Mr. Parton, and who congratulated the district on its progressiveness. Nowadays everyone was apt to run to the Government or municipality for help, forgetting that such help is given at the expense of the commuinity. The help of such associations as this was welcomed by the City Council, and the money raised was subsidised £1 for £1. Mr. Wright congratulated the committee, and wished them every success. Mr. Wright was accompanied by the Mayoress, and they were received by Mr. and Mrs. Rawson and Mr. and Mrs. Parton, Mrs. Davison, of Canterbury, and Mrs. Davison were also present; also Dr. and Mrs. Valintine, Captain Chudley, and many Seatoun residents. There were many attractions provided. Aunt Sally found favour with the children, a character-reader in the old windmill had many customers, while the punt on the pond was full of small boys enjoying themselves in a more or less safe manner. Ice creams were served in the summer-house and afternoon tea was set-out near the house at small tables, while Braund's orchestra played on the verandhah.
After Rawson had died in 1927, the estate was offered for sale in October 1929: Evening Post, Volume CVIII, Issue 80, 1 October 1929
RAWSON GARDEN ESTATE, SEATOUN.
200 YARDS TRAM TERMINUS.
22 SECTIONS AND 2 RESIDENCES.
UNDOUBTEDLY the Most Beautiful Complete Block of Land offered in Wellington for years. Planted with well-grown imported and native trees and shrubs, and having lawns, rosaries, garden plots, tennis court, artificial lake, glasshouse, hot houses, summer house, rock walls, quaint old rock Dutch windmill, stone store houses, and tower. Only a few minutes walk from bathing, boating, fishing, tennis courts, bowling green, and served by bitumen road from city. The business men's paradise. Splendid frontages, ranging from 50 to 76 feet, make the sections suitable for the erection of attractive homes; select neighbourhood. An inspection will convince.
NOTE. THE EASY TERMS - 10 per cent. deposit, balance 3 years, 6 1/2 per cent.
Ring the Sole Agents for plan and appointment to inspect.
ONSLOW H. BENGE AND CO., 6, Boulcott street.
Tel. 40-490. Private 25-820.
The plan of the block of 24 lots shows a round feature to the east of the pond - I'm pretty sure that must be the windmill.

Associated people

Upper Hutt (#nzmock17)

The Alexander Turnbull library has an unidentified photo of a young child standing in front of a largish model (3 - 4 times his height) Dutch style windmill. The mills has 4 common sails, a balcony, a thatched smock, and a tailpole to turn it to wind. The wind shaft appears to be just a simple metal bar, with a nut on the front end to bolt the sails in place - there is no poll end. The background gives few clues as to where this was located - just a typical wooded hillside. The photos was taken by an Evening Post staff photographer in 1960.

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Wainuiomata (#nzmock6)

(-41.2599,174.984)
post mill :
Large model, built by some Dutch ex-pats. Destroyed in a storm some time after 2010, and not rebuilt.
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Last updated 27/07/2020 Text and images © Mark Berry, 1997-2020 -