The real uniqueness of Lansdowne House is that 80 years after it was built, it is still largely in its original state with all the timber panelling, 6 working fireplaces and superb wooden floors still in excellent order. The originality of the building was the main attraction for new owners, Richard and Kadia Merralls who moved from an 1880’s farmhouse north of Auckland to take on the new challenge of restoring Lansdowne to its former glory. This restoration has been a 'labour of love' for the last two years and will be an ongoing project. However, the major first stage has now been completed and Lansdowne House is ready to open its doors once again.

The work completed on Lansdowne has transformed the old mansion. The floors upstairs and down have been sanded to restore the original colour and gloss. The main downstairs reception rooms which are used extensively for weddings and functions have had 12 spectacular chandeliers erected as well as pelmet mood lighting in a soft yellow or warm red for romantic after dinner dancing. The bar/drawing room has been painted in soft buttermilk to complement Kadia’s large blue and white plate collection. The buffet room with its large, 1850 antique dining table has been painted a vibrant red and the plate rail going right around the room has allowed Kadia to display more of her collection of English plates and bowls. Three huge open fire places add an ambience unequalled today and the rooms look out on a secluded brick courtyard bordered by an original brick icehouse, as well as huge trees, a well established garden and several water features. Guests often comment that it is very peaceful.

As you move upstairs there is another breathtaking chandelier in the stairwell. The wide, wood panelled staircase has two landings and a large leadlight window and has been fitted with a new carpet runner in a rich traditional style with brass rods and finials. At the top of the stairs there is a wide hallway extending the length of the house to the top veranda. All the rooms on this floor also have top quality light fittings and antique furniture which reflect the grandeur of the house. One of the great finds during the restoration process was the 8 matching, antique, French alabaster lights which now adorn the upstairs hallway giving it a magical night time ambience. For the lights still to have all the original brass fittings was a truly amazing discovery.

Moving outside you quickly become aware of the magnitude of this stately home. The grandeur of the house itself is reflected in the magnificence of two huge trees, a white chestnut and a massive elm which stand guard proudly over the driveway leading to the house. From there the drive curves  past three majestic willows and then leads on to impressive lawns and gardens with roses and several water features including a babbling waterfall with an arched bridge and a pond with ever increasing goldfish. This is a calm and restful area where you can read the morning paper under the willows, enjoy the solitude of the bricked courtyard or just lean on the bridge and watch the fish at play.