In 1880, the Waitemata Co-Op Dairy Company commenced production of butter in a small wooden building not far from this site which burnt down in the early 1900s. A replacement was built on the same site, but it proved to be too small, and as a result of increased demand the company built the large concrete factory that you see today. The building was officially opened on 27 November 1924.

In its early days the machinery was steam driven, powering the pumps and churns using a series of belts and shafts. To drive the steam turbines, large amounts of coal were supplied by the railway adjacent to the factory. After approximately ten years in operation the factory was converted to run on electricity.

The factory continued to flourish until 1951, when along with several similar factories, changes in the dairy industry brought about its closure. These changes included larger more centralized operations, and advances in refrigeration technology allowed for improved capability to transport milk to these processing centres.

Following its closure, the factory was used to store old World War II aircraft parts. The building was purchased in 1974 by the Jack family who could see its potential and had the vision to turn it into the perfect wedding venue for hosting romantic weddings and other functions. Over 16 years the building was lovingly and painstakingly restored and developed, along with the magnificently matured grounds.

In 1991, the building reopened as the Old Dairy Factory Bar and Restaurant. Only a year later the building had to again be refurbished following an unfortunate fire, and the name was then changed to Settlers Lodge to commemorate the area’s early settlers. Three years ago the name was changed to Settlers Country Manor, a fairytale wedding venue.

We have owned the property for nearly 40 years, and for the last 20 have been operating as a wedding venue, restaurant and function centre. In that time we have seen everything, and understand what works and what does not, so we have a wealth of experience behind us to ensure your special event runs without a hitch. Contact us on 09 411 7809 and we will help to make your vision a reality.