Heritage et AL

The story of Crown Lynn begins as one of classic New Zealand innovation. Its trajectory throughout the 1940s is characterised by aspiration and enterprise, as well as a connection to foreign affairs that would last the company’s lifetime. Crown Lynn’s ascension from a Hobsonville brick-and-pipe works to New Zealand’s preeminent pottery was the result of industry, innovation, and constant reassessment of their techniques. The nascent company identified where they could improve, hire people, or find equipment that would progress their craft. And, despite all of this, it never could have happened without the economic vagaries of the Second World War. This research project looks at the perennial link between economic conditions and fortunes at Crown Lynn, specifically their reliance on economic protections. The Second World War acted as a microcosm for these forces, with a complete ban on nonessential imports facilitating their rise from one of many pottery companies on the New Lynn scene ...

We’re very pleased to announce that we've recently had a new collection of photographs from Sir George Grey Special Collections added to Heritage Images . The intriguingly named ‘Riverhead Dump’ collection has a very interesting story behind it.  Ref: Unidentified harbour, Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Libraries, 1055-60.

New Lynn is under development. Stage two was completed when the Merchant Quarter in the historic heart of New Lynn was officially opened this year, signalling the completion of the second phase of growth. The iconic new buildings reflect New Lynn’s geography and heritage. Inspiration from the west coast bush can be seen in the medical centre’s triangular precast concrete panels and the panel edge colours match Crown Lynn tea saucers. The cladding of the car park takes it cue from west coast beaches and the air vents reference those of the 1969 Holden Monaro. Ref: JTD-11N-04189-3, New Lynn railway station, West Auckland Research Centre Links to New Lynn’s history as the cradle of ceramics and pottery in New Zealand are signalled by public art made from bricks and the Ambrico Place brick kiln feature. Future public investment will include the development of Crown Lynn Park on the old clay pits site previously used by the iconic ceramics producer.