In 1957, its natural amphitheatre and lake were converted into the Bowl of Brooklands, recognised as one of New Zealand's finest outdoor concert venues.

[3] The Gables, a colonial hospital building, which was completed in 1848, on the orders of Governor Sir George Grey, to provide medical care for Māori and Pākēha was moved to the Brooklands estate in 1904.

[4] It is a Category 1 listed Historic Place and is New Zealand's oldest surviving hospital building, and functions as a gallery for the Taranaki Arts Society.

[6][3] Between 1875 and 1880 there was an unsuccessful attempt to establish a vineyard in part of the Pukekura stream valley[3] An area of 53 acres (21.5 hectares) became the property of prominent Taranaki businessman Newton King, and a mansion named Brooklands was built there in the first decade of the 20th century.

However, due to some failed business ventures prior to his death, the money was unavailable, and in 1934 the trustees of his estate gifted the property to the New Plymouth borough instead.