Susan Yoffe, of Devonport Heritage 'delighted' with the award.
Bach 38, an 80-year-old heritage cottage that was in serious need of repair, won an Honourable Mention in the UNESCO awards. It is understood to be the first New Zealand submission to have been recognised by the awards panel.
Susan Yoffe, who recently retired after 12 years service on the Auckland branch committee of the New Zealand Historic Places Trust, submitted the Bach 38 entry in March on behalf of the Rangitoto Island Historic Conservation Trust (RIHCT).
Susan, who described the submission as “like writing a mini-thesis” clearly put her considerable skills as a contractual researcher for NZHPT to good effect. She said the award put the unassuming Kiwi bach on the world stage and recognised the importance of bach settlements in New Zealand’s architectural and social history.
The RIHCT relied on volunteers, over a three-year period, to complete the restoration in 2005. It is now used as headquarters for the RIHCT as well as an information centre.
Notification of the honour – which was given to only 17 of 45 projects, from 13 countries - came on 8 September.
Bach 38 was in illustrious company, achieving recognition alongside Herat Old City (Afghanistan) and Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) who received Awards of Excellence.
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