Historic Buildings

Cambridge is home to a fine collections of historic buildings. From grand homes and churches to former shops, hotels and public buildings, these places tell the story of a town that has grown and changed over generations.

Many of these buildings are still part of everyday life. People live in them, work in them and walk past them every day, often without realising the stories they hold. This page brings those stories together, helping you discover the people, architecture and events that have shaped Cambridge.

Browse the buildings listed below to learn more about their history, view historic photographs and explore how they have changed over time.

Cannot find your home or building?

Our research is ongoing. If your historic property is not listed, or if you have photographs, documents or family stories that could help us improve the information we hold, we would love to hear from you. Every contribution helps build a richer picture of Cambridge's past.

Please note

This page is currently being updated as new research becomes available. If you notice an error, have additional information, or would like to make an enquiry, please contact the Museum.

Why are these buildings protected?

For more than 50 years, the Cambridge community has worked to identify and protect places of historical significance.

In the early 1970s, the Cambridge Historical Society began recording buildings and archaeological sites that reflected the town's heritage. This work led to the first inventory of historic places and later informed heritage protection through the New Zealand Historic Places Trust (now Heritage New Zealand) and the Waipā District Council District Plan.

Historic places are recognised for one or more of the following reasons:

• Historical significance – their connection with important people, events or the development of Cambridge.
• Architectural significance – their design, craftsmanship, construction or representation of a particular period or style.
• Group significance – their contribution to the character of a wider streetscape or historic precinct.
• Landmark significance – their importance as familiar features within the town.
• Archaeological or scientific significance – their potential to provide evidence about the past.
• Heritage at risk – where protection helps safeguard buildings or places that may otherwise be lost.

  The Cambridge Historic Buildings appearing on the 'A' List are listed alphabetically and the bracketed numbers relate to their position in the Waipa District Council Plan - Appendix 10. The 'B' List is also alphabetical.