Dating from the early 1860s, Clendon House reflects James’ standing in the community. But it’s the story of the impressive Jane Clendon, of Hokianga Māori and Irish descent, that the handsome kauri dwelling best tells. Only 17 when she married her 56-year-old husband. Wandering through you’ll see some of the Clendon’s original 19th Century furnishings and domestic items, along with social memorabilia – dance cards, ball notices and the like – art and photographs collected over many decades.