We entered the grounds through the Daffodil Field, where we caught our first glimpse of the grand, historic, Otahuna Homestead. Via an old wooden bridge we made our way over the lilly pond and onto the great lawn to get a closer look at the luxurious building.
Following the garden path we wandered through the apple orchard and made our way over to Potager Garden, where the homestead's vegetables are grown in the old stallions paddock.
We walked through the stables (via the pet calves) and made our way to the brick 'Apple Shed'. This building played a vital role in the estate's history, serving as the refrigerator for the fresh produce for many years before electricity was invented.
We meandered through the Dutch Garden and the Lower Woodland before getting up close and personal with the homestead. Otahuna Lodge was impressive to say the least. From its hand-painted stained glass windows, to the brick work on the chimneys, the detail and scale was amazing.
Before leaving the grounds we turned back for one last glance at the lodge and caught its reflection in the still waters of the lilly pond - how picturesque!
... and its gates are now closed for another year.
We thoroughly recommend Daffodil Day at Otahuna Lodge (especially if you are a garden lover!). Cost is $15 per person and all proceeds go to the Cancer Society.
For more information visit http://www.otahuna.co.nz
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Click here to read about Heather's Christchurch Bike Tour experience here...
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In 1997, Christchurch was judged 'Garden City of the World' in the Nations in Bloom International Competition.
In spring, daffodils, tulips and cherry blossoms brighten this city's parks and gardens.
Checking out Christchurch's tree-lined boulevards and streets on bike is also a compelling option as much of the city centre is flat, making this form of transport a breeze.
Bike parks (and pebbled walking paths) weave through Hagley Park – a 405 acre site of green fields, tranquil lakes and streams right in the city centre. Broad cycleways will take you to Mona Vale, a historic Victorian homestead, with manicured English-style gardens and rolling lawns.
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Here is a list of unique activities to do while visiting Christchurch:
* Spend an evening strolling around the trendy new city lanes – His Lordship’s Lane & Poplar Lane.
* Take an afternoon walk along the hill top above Taylors Mistake, Sumner Beach
* Indulge in a finely decorated cupcake from the Riccarton House farmers markets
* Sample some of Canterbury s boutique beers at one of the city micro-breweries
* Spot Monarch butterflies resting in the trees along the Archery Lawn in the Botanic Gardens
* Meander through the produce markets in Lyttelton
* Take the ferry to the tranquil Diamond Harbour
* Enjoy Devonshire Tea at Mona Vale gardens beside the Avon River
* Stop and smell the roses… they’re everywhere!
* ...and of course, explore the city on the Christchurch City Bike Tour!
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