Thomas Wells Memorial Gates

Memorial Gates

Cambridge

Thomas Wells Memorial Gates

1911

Details

Location	Cambridge – Victoria Street
Commemorating	The first Chairman of the Cambridge Domain Board
Mediums	Wrought iron, Brick blocks
Listing	Waipā District Plan Cat B
Links	Cambridge Museum

Description

The Thomas Wells Memorial Gates were erected in 1911 at the entrance to the Cambridge Domain to honour Thomas Wells, a key figure in transforming the area from wasteland to parkland. Wells, a Cambridge mayor and longtime chairman of the Cambridge Domain Board (1880-1905), played a significant role in shaping the domain and Te Ko Utu Park.

Built by McNab and Mason in 1911 with architect A. B. Herrold, the gates reflect Wells’ lasting contribution to the community. In 1929 James Hooker made a generous gift of the ornamental entrance around the gates. Due to traffic safety concerns and redevelopment, the gates have been relocated within the domain, ensuring preservation and visibility for future generations.

WW1 Memorial Jubilee Garden

Cambridge District War Memorial

Cambridge

WW1 Memorial/ Jubilee Garden

1923

Details

Location	Cambridge – Cnr Lake and Victoria Streets
Commemorating	WW1
Mediums	Marble Sculpture
Listing	HNZ: Cat B, Waipā District Plan Cat B
Links	HNZ listing, NZ History

Description

The Cambridge District War Memorial, unveiled by Governor-General Viscount Jellicoe on 11 December 1923, stands in Jubilee Gardens, Cambridge. Designed by Auckland architect Nigel Wallnutt, the memorial features a sandstone obelisk with crosses in relief on all sides, inscribed with tributes to the Cambridge men who served in WWI.

A marble sculpture by Richard Gross depicts a New Zealand soldier, symbolizing youth’s sacrifice, while a recumbent lion represents imperial loyalties. At the foot of the cross lies a sandstone sarcophagus with bronze panels listing 71 names and bearing a poignant epitaph.