The McCallum family's New Zealand dedcendats can be traced back to John McCallum, who arrived from Scotland in the 1860s. Hailing from a maritime background, it didn't take long for him to become involved in the shipping industry in New Zealand. In 1866, he established McCallum and Macquarie Shipbuilders in Mechanics Bay, Auckland, crafting vessels to support the burgeoning sea freight trade in the Hauraki Gulf.

John transitioned into the shipping and sea freight business in the late 1800s, transporting various goods, including flax, metal, and general cargo, throughout the Hauraki Gulf in Auckland.

In 1894, John acquired two islands, Pakihi and Karamuramu Islands, from Sir John Logan Campbell. These islands, located in the southern Hauraki Gulf and visible from the Residence, were purchased with the intention of ensuring the family's self-sufficiency during challenging times. To this day, these islands remain owned and managed by the McCallum family.

In the early 1900s, John's children purchased land adjacent to the Islands in Clevedon, naming the farm "Lismore" after the Scottish birthplace of their father. The brothers joined forces and founded McCallum Bros Limited® in 1904, a family-owned enterprise that continues to produce the renowned McCallum chip and supplies a significant portion of the sand needed for Auckland's construction growth.

During the early 1900s, one of John's sons, William Fraser, and his wife Gwendoline constructed the Homestead, which is now known as the Residence. This spacious house was designed for entertaining and included a gardener's cottage to assist with the upkeep of the grounds.

As time passed, the next generation assumed the responsibilities of Lismore. In 2015, Callum, John McCallum's son, and his wife Jan took ownership and became responsible for the Residence. Despite previous renovations, it became evident that the Residence required substantial work. A decision was made to embark on a comprehensive renovation project, aiming to restore the house to its former glory while accommodating modern living.

Throughout this period, Jan and Callum saw an opportunity to offer the Residence as a premium accommodation facility. After more than two years of dedicated effort, the Residence has now opened its doors, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming you to experience this magnificent property.