David and Fay McCrum, a husband and wife team, founded this reputable Auckland cattery, formerly known as Ashwood Pet Hotel in 1950.

It originated from Fay’s renowned Persian cat breeding. Fay was frequently asked to take care of her clients’ prized cats while they were away. She soon found herself running a new business in addition to raising her three children as word of her vacation rental for cats spread. David built spacious lodging for the cattery visitors, and business grew.

Years later, upon retirement, David took over the management of the cattery, allowing Faye to devote more time to breeding poodles.

In 2002, the couple chose to retire to the country after many happy years.

When the opportunity to own their own cattery presented itself, especially one with such a long and storied history the couple jumped at it.

They have now been the owners for more than 20 years.

Carissa had wanted to work with animals, particularly cats, for a long time. She had grown up surrounded by animals such as goats, mice, and cats. When she saw an ad in the paper for someone to work in a renowned and reputable cattery in Pakuranga, she jumped at the chance. Even though she now runs her own cattery, she still enjoys working there.

Christian’s love of cats began with his mother, who, much to his father’s chagrin, was constantly taking in stray cats. The family once owned seven cats, including kittens from a mother cat who gave birth beneath the house and was then abandoned. Christian had been “working” in the toy industry for a few years at Auckland’s best toy store, Jacks Toy Company, when he met Carissa. She shared his mother’s fondness for cats, and Christian was relieved to have found someone who did as well.

The cattery required some love, care, and attention, but with the family’s help in cleaning (and a fresh coat of paint), it was quickly restored to top condition.

Catz at Ashwood Quality Boarding Cattery, renamed to reflect the new ownership, is once again one of Auckland’s top catteries. It quickly gained a devoted following of repeat clients who then refer us to their friends. In addition to recommending us to their clients, a number of neighbourhood vet offices board their own cats with us as well.

A breathtaking scene was painted on the cattery walls in 2009 by the highly skilled muralist Doug Ford. A lovely native forest filled with local fish, birds, and, if you know where to look, frogs. In addition to Power Boxes, school and early education centre walls, and locations like Cornwall Park and ASB Stadium, Dougs’ incredible artwork can be found all over Auckland. To see more of Doug’s exquisite artwork, follow him on Instagram.

Thanks largely to the long periods of Covid Lock Down, there are now some additional artworks.  Christian painted a Bird mural on the inside wall of the walkway down to the cattery, and a large Tiger on the Garage Door.