History of Tatum Park
“Tatum” is derived from the Saxon term meaning “happy home”
Over the years, Tatum gained a reputation for its splendid gardens, scenic bush walks, and enchanting aviaries, making it a beloved destination for locals and their families.
Built in 1912 and once the residence of Major and Lady Tatum. Built by a local builder who rode his bicycle to work at Tatum each day from Otaki.
Major Tatum was a flamboyant character & a local hero
Major Tatum, affectionately known in our community as the “Manakau Squire,” was a vibrant and charismatic figure, sporting a large waxed moustache, often seen riding his chestnut-coloured horse. He wore a bright blue sports coat and a black bowler hat paired with his white trousers tucked into a pair of gumboots. He and his wife resided in Tatum House in the beautiful surrounding Gardens and 32-acre park until 1943.
On a stormy night; the railway bridge across the Waikawa river (which runs along the boundary line of Tatum) got washed away by a high flood. Major Tatum went out in the middle of the storm in his Pajamas and stopped the train by waving a large lantern to warn the driver. For this act he was given a lifetime free railway pass!
Major Tatum had a passion for Mirrors, so the homestead had an extraordinary amount of mirrors in the furniture and on the walls in every room. Mrs Tatum had beautiful china, pictures and wall hangings. Her mother and father were in diplomatic circles in Italy and so many of the original furnishings were from her homeland of Italy.
The estate became a vibrant hub in the Manawatu region
Garden parties and bazaars were often held here, organised by Major Tatum and supported by his three gardeners. These events drew visitors from across the area, contributing to the venue’s legacy in the community.
While Major and Lady Tatum had no children of their own, their legacy continued through their generous bequest of the property to the Scouts in the 1940s. They were deeply committed to fostering the growth of young men into good and loyal citizens.
From that time on, Tatum Park served as a significant venue for the scouting association, eventually becoming the organization’s National Training Centre. This transition marked a new chapter in the park’s storied history, continuing the Tatums’ dedication to nurturing the community’s youth.
The Scouts took over the park in the 1940’s
By then the property had become extensively overgrown. Maintaining the property, including its buildings and grounds, soon proved financially burdensome for the Scouting Association.
By 2012, the trust terms were renegotiated, allowing the property to be sold. At that time, Tatum Park featured a fully constructed army-style confidence course, complete with a zipline. The current occupants of the house who had been residing on the property with their five children purchased the property and continued to operate the park as a wedding and conference venue, until it was eventually sold to Wayne Bishop of Wayne Bishop Group in 2022.
By this point the property including the house, grounds and all its buildings required extensive redevelopment and work to restore it commenced by WBG shortly after.
The redevelopment of the site has kept the homestead as the focus of the property with new buildings added which fit into the original grandeur and style. Careful attention has been taken to celebrate the history of Tatum with the full renovation of this Historical homestead known as Tatum house.
Weddings
Say “I do” in a stunning natural setting or in our elegant indoor spaces.
Accomodation
Designed with relaxation in mind, each room exudes a boutique resort like feel.