Auckland's Waitakere Estate is owned and operated by the Nevill-Jackson family. The Estate was built by Captain J Nevill-Jackson and his family. A retired airline pilot, Captain Nevill-Jackson had been all over the world, had made many friends in many countries and was familiar with most of the world's most beautiful spots.

In 1940, he purchased an initial block of land of around 35 acres (14 hectares). It took three days for Captain Nevill-Jackson to cut his way from Opanuku Road to the spot where the Hotel is now. At the time of the Second World War, building materials were in short supply so Captain Nevill-Jackson built his bachelor's pad out of aeroplane packing cases.

In 1953 Captain Nevill-Jackson married Monica and they started a family. During this time he built a substantial family home. The original wooden building, renovated and extended, now houses the conference and restaurant facilities. 

Faced with compulsory retirement from aviation at age 55, Captain Nevill-Jackson decided to build accommodation. During the 1960's the first three motel units, the swimming pool and the squash court were constructed. Much of this was done with the assistance of his wife, Monica, who was often seen helping with concreting and other building work.

Following on from the completion of the above projects Captain Nevill-Jackson commenced the construction of the large lounge and the 12 hotel rooms attached to the main building. At this time Captain Nevill-Jackson was in his sixties and laid over 10,000 concrete blocks as part of the construction process. His sons, Reg and Hugh Nevill-Jackson, spent their weekends pouring concrete floors and assisting with other construction work. The complex was substantially completed in the early 1980's.

Auckland's Waitakere Estate is now operated by Reg and Hugh Nevill-Jackson. Reg and Hugh are continuing to improve and enhance the facilities at Auckland's Waitakere Estate, building on the remarkable achievements of their parents. As a result of these enhancements Auckland's Waitakere Estate has beautifully appointed hotel rooms and amenities at a four star level.