Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Local New Zealanders are known for their warm hospitality and pride in their unique homes and gardens. This visit will take you through the enchanting experience of meeting locals who open their doors to share their personal spaces, offering a glimpse into the harmonious blend of a century old farm-house and woodland garden that defines New Zealand living.

The journey begins with scenic drive along the shores of Lyttleton harbour and to the top of Dyers Pass where your driver will have time to stop for a photo opportunity. Overlooking the Canterbury plains to the Alps – the views are spectacular.

Arriving at "Ballymoney", you will receive a heartfelt greeting from the homeowners. New Zealanders, or Kiwis as they are affectionately known, are famous for their friendliness and generosity. As you step into their home, you are treated like family, invited to share in their stories and traditions and become part of their home for a few hours.

The tour starts with a traditional morning tea. After refreshments, you can join the hosts to wander the house and garden who happily share their knowledge and experience developing their much-loved property over the past few years. The garden features established paeonies, rhododendrons, roses, perennials and mature trees with an avenue of quince trees leading down to the cutting garden and on out to paddocks beyond.

The century old home has recently undergone a significant renovation and has been tastefully restored into a traditional NZ family home with many warm, welcoming features, from the open fires and farm kitchen to the bedrooms with garden views.
As the tour concludes, visitors leave with a profound appreciation for the seamless blend of Kiwi hospitality and a welcoming home and garden.