New Zealand Odyssey: 'Clairinch', Taieri Plain, Dunedin

'New Zealand Odyssey', published in 1989 by Heinemann, was authored by me, Don Donovan (who did the text and illustrations) and Euan Sarginson, who did the photography and design. In this series of blog posts, I will publish some of my drawings.

This is another of those gracious old houses on the Taieri Plain south of Dunedin. 'Clairinch' was built in 1878 and embodies those qualities that typify most buildings whose form comes from function rather than 'design'. 

I didn't go inside when I drew the house in 1988 but suspect that the stairs to the dormer storeys are narrow and possibly have a rope rather than a wooden banister rail.

Somebody still loved 'Clairinch' a quarter of a century ago. I hope it's still cherished today.

© DON DONOVAN

donovan@ihug.co.nz

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New Zealand Odyssey: The Remains of Glenhope Railway Station

'New Zealand Odyssey', published in 1989 by Heinemann, was authored by me, Don Donovan (who did the text and illustrations) and Euan Sarginson, who did the photography and design. In this series of blog posts, I will publish some of my drawings.

There used to be a railway line from Nelson to Glenhope - a long time ago - and in 1988 this is what part of the station building's remains looked like. You could still read 'Luggage Room' and 'Telegraph' lettered over the doors.

Old buildings that are still standing are rarely left unused in New Zealand, especially in farming areas, and the station was amply stocked with winter feed on the day I visited. Surprisingly the roof iron was still in good condition but it was along time since it rattled from the vibrations of a docking locomotive.

© DON DONOVAN

donovan@ihug.co.nz 
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New Zealand Odyssey: Foxglove Cottage, 50 Dawson Street, New Plymouth

'New Zealand Odyssey', published in 1989 by Heinemann, was authored by me, Don Donovan (who did the text and illustrations) and Euan Sarginson, who did the photography and design. In this series of blog posts, I will publish some of my drawings.

Even in 1987, I was surprised to see this historic little cottage so close to the centre of New Plymouth. It was clearly a beloved relic and unless protected would die in the face of urban renewal and increasing real estate 'values' (which are usually little to do with true value and much to do with cupidity). I don't suppose it survived.

My wife liked the original illustration so much that I gave it to her and it still hangs on a wall after all these years.