Fred and Myrtle’s Paua House

Fred’s Paua House, located in Bluff, New Zealand, is an iconic local attraction. Fred Reece, a fisherman and shell collector, covered his home with hundreds of Paua shells, creating an extraordinary display of shimmering blues and greens. Fred’s house became famous for its unusual decor, attracting visitors far and wide. After Fred’s passing, his house was relocated to the Canterbury Museum in Christchurch, preserving his legacy for future generations.

Myrtle, Fred's wife, played a key role in supporting Fred’s vision. She helped him in collecting the Paua shells and maintaining the unique decor of their home. Together, they turned their house into a symbol of creativity and dedication to the local environment. Their partnership added warmth to the eccentric display, as the home became a reflection of their shared passion and love for their coastal surroundings.

Over the years, the living room, hallway, and even the outside walls became completely plastered with more than 1,200 shells and thousands of tiny ornaments. The couple welcomed every visitor warmly . Fred would greet women with a signature, "Come in, girlie," and share stories about the collection

After Fred and Myrtle passed away, the house was purchased by their grandson. He donated the massive 4,000-piece collection to the Canterbury Museum. Today, museum visitors can walk into an exact re-creation of the famous living room, complete with the original furniture and vintage carpet. You can also take an online 360-degree tour of the house from home.