Relax and be inspired by wonderful vistas that connect you with nature and the rhythm of life, in a garden for all seasons!

Garden History

Over 45 years ago on a North Canterbury sheep farm, the garden at Flaxmere was established, boldly designed to frame breath taking mountain vistas, and create sense of tranquillity with a series of ponds.

Situated near the Southern Alps, Flaxmere has developed into a stunning example of a garden that evolves with the seasons, splendid throughout the year.

This is a large country garden based on the principals of strong design, is completely in tune with the terraced riverbed country the garden is part of. Flaxmere's vistas have been described as 'art forms'.

Immense use of water creating a series of five ponds, gives a sense of enormous peace, and ensures wonderful bird life. Heavy old bridge timbers have been used and stone walls have been built over the years which add to the country style. This is a garden that has most things, formal, informal, extensive area of New Zealand native plants, woodlands, roses, rhododendrons and water.

Flaxmere has been made a Garden of National Significance by the New Zealand Garden Trust, which is affiliated to the Royal Institute of Horticulture.

Visitors from around the world have been welcomed for many years.

Art in a Garden

Art in a Garden is an annual exhibition held towards the end of October /beginning of November. This event celebrates the combination of NZ artworks in Flaxmere’s garden gallery and restored 1890 barn. This is considered to be the very best indoor/outdoor exhibition of its kind in the South Island. We have prided ourselves on the placement of sculptures within ethereal vistas, and paintings, pottery, glass & jewellery in the barn gallery. We aim for the very best environment possible to enhance inspiration enjoyment and sales.

Art in a garden has developed into a wonderful day out for not only art collectors but also families who wish to encourage their children to become involved in the creative world. We offer children’s classes in selected activities.

Live music and a streamside café add to our days and create a relaxed & unhurried feel.

Tickets can be purchased online in the months leading up to the event: www.artinagarden.co.nz

Garden Tours

A garden that is breathtakingly bold in its design, Flaxmere reflects the change of seasons with each spelling its own magic.

Groups & FIT travellers are welcome. Bookings are essential. Morning & Afternoon tea, lunches as well as guided tours with Penny Zino are available upon request.

Spring

September - November

Thousands of daffodils and an abundance of flowering cherry trees, create the essence of spring. Masses of primula candelabra, rhododendrons, azaleas, tulips, blue bells, and clematis follow in October and November.

Summer

December - February

Roses everywhere herald the summer and combined with the water irises and lilies make the garden look its unforgettable best in early December.

Autumn

March - May

Flaxmere was planted with autumn colour in mind. Mid April - mid May is a blaze of reds, oranges and yellows, providing a flamboyant flourish before winter sets in.

Winter

June - August

The bones of the garden become apparent, and it is Ikebana time. Set against the background of the snow covered Southern Alps it is Penny's favourite time. There is a peacefulness that belies a year's toil; and the garden is asleep.

Imagine your special day in this secluded, romantic, country retreat.

Weddings

Weddings at Flaxmere are a real joy.

You are spoilt for choice for a location within the garden, different areas offering wonderful opportunities to create your own exclusive garden wedding.

It is a photographer’s dream, vistas of countryside complete with rustic gates, an arched bridge, brick pathways, stone walls and flowers to suit the seasons.

This is a venue where you can use all your creative talents to make this day your own, amongst Idyllic surroundings with stunning mountainous backdrops.

Whether it be a small intimate wedding or a large gathering, Flaxmere can cater for all occasions.

Photography By: Tracy Alsop

Native Plantings at Flaxmere

New Zealand indigenous plantings at Flaxmere surround a large pond with a vista to Mt Te Koa. This is a very different part of the garden which strikes a point of difference. It is an area that all overseas visitors are particularly interested in.