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About Us
Beaufords, built in the 1920s, was originally the homestead for James Gunson, Mayor of Auckland. Gunson owned all of Totara Park, which he used as farmland, with Beaufords as the centerpiece of his estate.
In 1947, the property was sold to Charles Prevost, a wealthy wool merchant. Alongside his wife, Yvonne, Prevost transformed the house into a luxurious holiday retreat. During Charles’s frequent absences, Yvonne became known for hosting glamorous, yet often scandalous, parties at the property.
In 1968, Beaufords was sold to the Manukau City Council. Today, it is recognized as a Category A* scheduled historic heritage place.
A Rich History
Beaufords holds a special place in Auckland’s history as the original homestead of Sir James Gunson, who served five terms as Mayor of Auckland from 1915 to 1925. Together with Lady Jessie Gunson, he owned the surrounding land—now Totara Park—which they used as farmland, complete with sheep, cattle, horses, and dogs.
The house itself was designed in collaboration with the renowned architectural firm Gummer and Ford, showcasing Gunson’s love for both farming and architecture. His legacy includes the development of iconic Auckland landmarks such as the Auckland Museum, Tamaki Drive, and the monument atop One Tree Hill.
The images below show Beaufords in its earliest days, standing proudly as the farmhouse at the heart of Totara Park.
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Contact
90R Wairere Road
The Gardens
Auckland
022 511 9090
@BeaufordsTotaraPark