Harlau House History
Harlau House was designed in the late nineteenth century by a French architect, Maurice de'Vale and built in 1890 by Edward George Kerr, an early owner of the Timaru Herald.
Harlau's French architect Maurice de H’Arven Duval also designed the Convent of Mercy in Timaru, and St Mary’s Church in Geraldine. Duval's buildings were often identifiable by his cornerstone, or “quoin” motif comprised of concrete blocks laid horizontally, long and short alternatively.
Harlau Today
When the sun's shining, Harlau House is a favourite spot for a courtyard lunch, just 10 minutes from the centre of town. Simply head inland immediately outside Timaru's southern boundary on Beaconsfield Road, where the plains yield to gently rolling hills and you’ll find Harlau. Aim for a table in the large courtyard, so you can admire both the former stable building made of brick, which houses the café. The Harlau House Cafe courtyard is surrounded by lush gardens and well-established trees offering a view of the 19th-century homestead, all while you enjoy relaxed, casual dining.
A space to gather, celebrate, eat, relax and enjoy a slice of local history.
