Purewa a Living Space

New Zealand Heritage and History

Experience the Continuing Power of
Lives Remembered at Purewa

Our lives have meaning. And meaning is a narrative, the story of our lives.

A place like Purewa exists to preserve the memory of our shared human story through the individuals laid to rest here.

These short films highlight timely and timeless accounts reflecting New Zealand’s history and identity.
Come visit Purewa and explore these stories up close! There is even an app tour available to guide you.

We look forward to seeing you!

Anzac 2025 – Remembering Sir Harold Eric Barrowclough

Polish Hero Defender of Ukraine

Witold Bukowski: Polish Hero and Defender of Ukraine

Matariki Remembering Mere Wharepapa

Matariki: Remembering Mere Wharepapa and Partner Tom “Darby” Ryan

Daisy Spurgeon – Grandaughter of Charles Spurgeon

Amelia Haszard Mount Tarawera Volcano Survivor

Amelia Haszard Survivor of New Zealand’s Greatest Natural Disaster

Sir Roger Hall on playwright Dean Parker

ANZAC FIGHTS THE BATTLE OF ARMAGEDDON

Anzac 2022: Kiwis Fight the Battle of Megiddo             “Armageddon”

Michael Hurst
on actor
Kevin Todd Smith

Sir Edward Elgar’s Kiwi Inspiration

Captain Donald Harkness – Biplane Bomber of Zeppelins in WWI

Arthur Purchas NZ Renaissance Man

Arthur Guyon Purchas – New Zealand’s Renaissance Man

Walter Batty: Tongan All Black and Hero of Desert Fight Against Rommel’s Panzers

Select Recent Stories

  • Shared Heritage: Auckland Zoo, Auckland War Memorial Museum, and Purewa

    Shared Heritage: Auckland Zoo, Auckland War Memorial Museum, and Purewa

    Visitors to Auckland’s Zoo encounter not only wildlife but a history that links some of our city’s most influential citizens. It’s a story of architecture, taxidermy, philanthropy and an elephant whose life brought joy to the hundreds of thousands who visited her over her 42-year career at the zoo.

    Read More
  • Auckland Heritage Festival 2025: Featuring Purewa's Athletes

    Auckland Heritage Festival 2025: Featuring Purewa's Athletes

    Purewa is proud to be the resting place of some Auckland’s most notable athletes. From the first female olympian to arguably the greatest All Black ever! Take a walk around Purewa’s grounds guided by the Purewa Heritage Tours app, and relive their legendary achievements. The app features audio and visual content to enrich your experience.

    Read More
  • For Mother's Day:

    For Mother's Day: "The Baby Factory" Founder Helen Lowe

    Read More
  • ANZAC DAY - 2025 Remembering Sir Eric Harold Barrowclough

    ANZAC DAY - 2025 Remembering Sir Eric Harold Barrowclough

    Read More