Established in 1872, Woodlands was originally a 98,000-acre property surveyed after the Waikato land wars. It was purchased by the Piako Swamp Company with the understanding they would improve and drain the peat land and develop roads. Surveyed land was also designated to Maori in the area. Woodlands became a self-sufficient enterprise – the Homestead was surrounded by a village of farm buildings, including stables, woolshed, bakery, blacksmith, waterwheel and joinery shop, butchery and stock yards. It became the centre of local social activities. Around three acres were planted in imported and native trees, many of which are still flourishing today.
1875 The Victorian Homestead is built for manager Henry Reynolds. Reynolds developed the Anchor brand while at Woodlands and was the first person to export butter from NZ. He left Woodlands in 1885 to build his dairy factory at Pukekura near Cambridge
1885 - 1903 John Gordon takes over managing the Estate
1905 The Riddell Family purchase the Homestead and 2400 acres surrounding it, gifting the Homestead and eight acres of garden for the community to enjoy in 1983