Friends, family and well-wishers celebrated the 100th birthday of Hayes Homestead over the Labour Weekend, with descendents paying homage to the historic site built by a pioneering family.

The homestead was built by the Hayes sons for their parents, Ernest and Hannah Hayes. 

The weather was perfect for the celebration. Despite rain in the morning, it cleared in time for the day of remembrance.

The old house was built 100 years ago and is preserved under management by Heritage NZ.

Chief Executive Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Andrew Coleman (left), and June Jones (nee Hayes), Hayes descendant.

Hayes Engineering Property Lead, Jess Armstrong says the ceremony was a great occasion to celebrate the family who built the historic homestead. 

“I think it was a very successful day. The aim was to really appreciate the homestead and its gardens, and having a family picnic event was the best way. 

“Everyone was able to enjoy the nice weather and relax and catch up with family and friends whilst in this marvellous setting!

“It was also a really special opportunity for us working at Hayes to reconnect with the Hayes family descendants. 

“We always learn something new about the family; some story about one of the original Hayes that’s been passed down as family folk-lore. 

“And of course it was so good to be able to share our appreciation of the restoration team 10 years on from the homestead opening.”

The Hayes sons made the mudbricks on-site in the years before World War I. Once Bernard and Stanley Hayes returned from active duty in 1919-20, the concrete foundations were poured and construction began.

Ken Gillespie (left) and Central Otago District Mayor Tim Cadogan (right).

Hannah Hayes was so keen to start living in her new home that she began moving in, 18 October 1921, before the final touches were completed.

Members of the Hayes family continue to be involved in the site to this day. Descendent, Anne Hayes, is grateful to the Heritage New Zealand team who care for the property. 

“It’s been great seeing the improvements to the visitor experience which let so many people enjoy our ancestors’ inventions,” she says.

“I often have people tell me how much they’ve enjoyed visiting the site”.

Hayes Homestead is part of Hayes Engineering – a property cared for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, and which is open to the public. 

For more information visit the website.