The 204-year-old Kemp House in Kerikeri has disappeared from view — wrapped in a "white waterproof membrane" while it's re-roofed with a fresh batch of shingles.
Heritage NZ Pouhere Taonga northern assets manager Boris Bogdanovich said all work was being undertaken carefully to determine the condition of the building, but early indications were good.
"The shingles might be on their last legs, but the wooden structure underneath — including the original kauri beams that were shaped by carpenters over two centuries ago — are in incredibly good condition for their age.
"We've had a fairly dry winter so far which has been really good. It would be great if that weather were to continue, but if not, our waterproof covering will protect the house from any rain damage."
The roof — and, indeed, the rest of the house — are of a significant age, it is the earliest surviving house in the country, predating the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi by 20 years.
Built by the missionaries James and Charlotte Kemp and Māori sawyers in 1821-22, Heritage NZ said the property embodied shared Māori and Pakeha history.
Ownership of the house was passed through the Kemp family until Ernest Kemp gifted it to the NZ Historic Places Trust in 1974.
Now a popular spot for local and international visitors, Heritage NZ said it was appealing for public support in funding the Kemp House restoration project.
Those wishing to support the project can find more information on the Heritage NZ website.
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