With the creation of the Women's Royal New Zealand Naval Service in 1942, there was a need to provide accommodation for female ratings.  Following the end of the Second World War the Navy purchased the Ventnor Private Hotel on King Edward Parade in Devonport for use as a Wrens hostel.  Renamed Elizabeth House, in honour of Princess Elizabeth, the hostel was used until 1990 when alternative accommodation was available within the naval base.