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ITINERARY

New Zealand’s gardens are amongst the best anywhere on earth. Throw in a warm Kiwi welcome and Garden Marlborough, and we have the perfect excuse to visit this beautiful region of the South Island.

Check-in at Sydney International Airport for your flight to Christchurch. Meet Paula Benneian, your Ross Tour Leader at the departure gate. Christchurch is known as New Zealand’s Garden City, a unique destination where thriving garden traditions merge with dynamic urban renewal. Check into your hotel, Distinction Hotel. Celebrate together tonight at our Welcome dinner.

Accommodation: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch

Today, enjoy a full day of garden visits. Firstly, travel north to the small township of Amberley; visit Blue House Garden This is a garden where strong design and a plant woman’s passion go hand in hand. This afternoon; enjoy a visit to No 11 Historic Cottage and Garden; the garden surrounds the cottage. Finish the day with a guided tour of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens; the gardens boast an impressive collection of plants which provide a tranquil oasis.

Accommodation: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch

This morning we depart Christchurch and travel to Flaxmere Garden in North Canterbury, a 6 star Garden of International Significance. Enjoy a packed lunch at Flaxmere, in this 3-hectare garden there are a series of garden areas each distinct using different cultivars and connected with a series of ponds which have their own personality. Coldstream is next, a lush tranquil oasis, awarded a 5 star Garden of National Significance.

Accommodation: Hanmer Springs Hotel, Hanmer Springs

Today, visit Loch Leven, another Garden of National Significance, the result of hard work by its owners over the last 33 years and is still evolving. This 3-acre garden is set on a small farm in the Amuri Basin. Remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the quaint township of Hanmer.

Accommodation: Hanmer Springs Hotel, Hanmer Springs

This morning travel to Blenheim via Kaikoura. Lunch is included today. Enroute visit Welton House; settled high on an ancient dune and surrounded by geometric rows of vineyards, Welton House Garden is at once thoroughly modern whilst proudly celebrating its 150-year history.

Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough, Blenheim

Today we see 3 stunning gardens of National & International Significance, including Carolyn Ferraby’s Barewood, in classic English style, elegant, generous, a connoisseur’s delight. Lunch included today. Then, Paripuma, a magical and earthy beachside paradise & Whitney Garden, a working garden with fruit trees and vegetable gardens.

Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough, Blenheim

Another day filled with private gardens of Marlborough; visit the romantic Hortensia House Garden, and the Japanese-inspired native Moritaki Garden.

Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough, Blenheim

More private gardens of Marlborough on our list today; visit Willows Green Garden & another two local private gardens by Tim and Sally Wadsworth and Kirsty and
David Wraight.

Accommodation: Chateau Marlborough, Blenheim

Hidden away and perched high above the Pacific Ocean, in a magical oasis of its own making, lies Winterhome Garden, 10 acres of structured formal garden and park-like grounds. This afternoon travel across the farmlands of the North Canterbury Plains and the Waipara wine district and on to Christchurch.

Accommodation: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch

We are heading to the unspoilt old French whaling depot of Akaroa on Banks Peninsula. Visit Fisherman’s Bay Garden that sits on the coast, skillfully designed to fit into the rugged panoramic landscape. Free time to browse the cute shops in Akaroa. Then to Giant’s House, now part of Akaroa folklore, a fun garden of exuberant sculptures and mosaics. Farewell Dinner included tonight.

Accommodation: Distinction Hotel, Christchurch

Margaret Long’s Frensham Gardens is the last on our itinerary, some say it’s the best! Margaret’s superb skill with short and long vistas has made a strong structure. Her considerered use of flowering shrubs; roses, peonies, wisteria, clematis, and the filtering of light which is created by judicious pruning has made Frensham one of New Zealand’s five star gardens of National Significance. Transfer to Christchurch International Airport to connect with your homeward flight.

HOW TO BOOK

To secure your booking and make your deposit, please complete our online booking form. You will be contacted by a Ross Tours Travel Manager to confirm your details and preferred method of payment.

CANCELLATIONS

Cancellations received 180-120 days prior to departure will incur loss of deposit.
Cancellations received between 119-60 days prior to departure will incur a 50% cancellation fee.
Cancellations received between 59-30 days prior to departure will incur a 75% cancellation fee plus any non-recoverable costs incurred.
Cancellations received within 30 days prior to departure will incur 100% cancellation fee.
Cancellations must be sent in writing.
Cancellation fee is based upon the total amounts paid including tours, airfares and all other travel arrangements.
Please refer to the Ross Garden Tours standard terms and conditions

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