was established, boldly designed to frame breath taking mountain vistas, and

create sense of tranquility with a series of ponds. Situated near the

Southern Alps at an altitude of 300 meters Flaxmere has developed into a

stunning example of a garden that evolves with the seasons, splendid at any

time of the year.

This is a large country garden based on the principals of strong design,

which is completely in tune with the terraced riverbed country the garden is

part of. The point of difference, are vistas 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

Flaxmere is situated on the Lake Summer Road 10 kilometers from the local

village of Hawarden in North Canterbury, just over an hour to drive from

Christchurch. Admission fees apply and there is a small nursery from which

you are welcome to purchase plants.