The Giants House
The Giants House
4.5
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Monday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
About
The Happiest Garden on Earth..! Garden of International Significance.. A Josie Martin creation.. Colourful, beautiful balance between garden and art. Don’t miss the fun DVD playing in the contemporary art gallery. Terraced gardens with sculptures and incredible mosaics. Very Unique. A creative feast and a wonderful experience. Only a few minutes walk from the centre of Akaroa.terraced gardens are full of surprises -expect the unexpected at The Giant's House!
Duration: 1-2 hours
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See what travellers are saying
- K KHamburg, Germany187 contributionsWorth a visit!We loved our time in this colorful garden! It's a nice workout to get up the hill but you can relax and walk around - tons to look at. Ignore the reviews complaining about an early closing time. This is someone's house. They live there and are constantly updating and adding. Definitely worth a stop if you're in AkaroaVisited January 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 7 January 2023
- Julie FWellington, New Zealand34 contributionsThe Giant's HouseWhat a wonderful quirky garden. I have not seen the like before. It was so colourful and uplifting. Such imagination, it was just great. There is also a little cafe and you can sit under the trees and take in the views. I was lucky enough to meet the artist too. Lots to look at here so take your time as you may miss something.Visited December 2022Written 8 January 2023
- danielkayeleneThe Summit, Australia757 contributionsColourful and wacky gardenSmall garden but absolutely packed with an assortment of fantastical, imaginative, colourful and crazy mosaics, sculptures and ceramics. Like falling down an Alice in Wonderland wormhole. Ideal for kids as you are encouraged to interact with the artwork. Well worth a visit if you have an hour or two to spare.Visited December 2022Written 9 January 2023
- WilsonFamilyNzPleasant Point, New Zealand575 contributionsMosaic MindblowingWorth the wait to finally get to see this wonderfully dreamy place. Walk tho the garden and go back to your childhood. If u have a wheelchair u can ask at gate and they let you in side door. Good price for great memoriesVisited January 2023Travelled with familyWritten 18 January 2023
- Catherine H4 contributionsgobsmakingwe initially baulked at the price of entry ($25 per person) but within a few minutes we realised we were somewhere very special. And worth every cent. words cannot describe the scale and talent on display. Highly recommended!Visited January 2023Written 21 January 2023
- darlingxiexieGalston, Australia36 contributionsQuirky but beautiful, a fantasy dreamlandThis is absolutely amazing place! I just can’t breathe when I step in. The artist owns her quirky but beautiful skills and turned a garden into a wonderland. This definitely belongs to anyone who still has a fantasy dream! Love it!Visited January 2023Travelled with familyWritten 24 January 2023
- AixTexTexas108 contributionsUniqueness on a grand scaleThis is an outdoor art museum in a glorious multi-level garden. The designs and colors and fantasy creatures are just enchanting. We were extremely lucky to be there on a clear warm day, for a leisurely, extended visit. In the garden cafe we enjoyed a delicious ice cream sundae served on a silver tray with linen napkin... special touches like that add to the experience. As others have mentioned, it is a bit pricey, but once you get in there, you can see why.Visited December 2022Written 6 February 2023
- NelsonNZNelson-Tasman Region, New Zealand93 contributionsWonderful placeWe had a quick trip to the Giants House as we had another trip planned in the afternoon. We spent an hour there but could have easily have spent much longer. What creative and fantastic mosaics, just incredible, and so quirky.Visited February 2023Written 13 February 2023
- LauraPukaki, New Zealand3 contributionsAmazing!!How cool!! We loved it! Mum was very jet lagged so had to sit down quite often but said when you sit down and look around you notice even more features you didn’t see before. My favourite bits were Isobella and the giant hare but the whole garden was amazing! We could wander round there all day!Visited February 2023Travelled with familyWritten 15 February 2023
- Ann TPascoe Vale, Australia1,443 contributionsGloriousIt’s a steep walk up to the garden which is opened by artist Jodi Martin. The house was originally built in 1880 by the first Bank of New Zealand Manager and is made of Totara and Kauri hardwood from the Banks (named after Joseph Banks) Peninsula. She bought the house 26 years ago and started making concrete mosaic sculptures 22 years ago. She lives in the house and does all the gardening as well. It’s hard to describe the glory of the garden - full of colour and whimsical statues and tiles made of broken plates - it’s utterly original and worth the entry fee just to smile a lot as one climbs over the hillside.Visited December 2022Written 11 March 2023
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4.5
1,373 reviews
Excellent
1,117
Very good
179
Average
41
Poor
23
Terrible
13
Gngrpeech
Homer, AK101 contributions
Dec 2023 • Friends
Amazing colors and textures. I felt like I was inside Alice in Wonderland. The artist lives here and also does her own gardening. Disappointed there is no gift shop. Also when I purchased a delicious cold lemon ginger drink at the end of my visit, it was served in glassware and there is zero provision for paper cups or anything to take with you. Since weren’t in a hurry, I was able to sit in the garden and enjoy. However, it would be a kindness if there were signage to the effect that there is no provision to takeaway or ‘to go’.
Written 1 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stef
8 contributions
Dec 2023 • Couples
Spectacular gardens and art. Josie has an amazing talent for creating wonder. All the ceramic characters are clever and fun
Written 1 December 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris P
3 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Fantastic not to be missed.
She has got a fantastic imagination.
To do this within 25 years.
Came back the next day
She has got a fantastic imagination.
To do this within 25 years.
Came back the next day
Written 27 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LolaDeVys
7 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
A fabulous and unique art garden with whimsical surprises around every corner. Well named The Happiest Garden. Also serves the prettiest Devonshire tea I’ve ever seen, with fresh flowers. Stunning views but steep slope and many steps, so limited access for people with disability.
Written 4 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paul W
Newbury, UK9 contributions
Oct 2023 • Family
Just stunning art work. There were so many “wow moments”. Worth the trip to New Zealand on its own! A must see.
Written 1 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Anthony W
Christchurch, New Zealand82 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Totally underwhelming. $50 a couple to look around some gardens and see some mosaics. If I had paid say $5-10 I would have considered it fair price. In and out in 15-mins. It’s designed to scalp the American cruise ship tourists.. kiwis will find it an expensive meh. If mosaics are your thing.. knock yourself out - you’ll probably enjoy it. Otherwise..
Written 20 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Vienna Domingo
Auckland, New Zealand8 contributions
Aug 2023 • Friends
The mosaic art in this garden is magnificent and beautiful. We visited the garden right at opening time and then headed to the harbour for our dolphin cruise, which was just 5-7 mins from the garden.
Written 15 September 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa Fretwell
England, UK5 contributions
Aug 2023 • Family
This is the most amazing Mosaic garden. Akin to Antonio Gaudi, except it's a truly individual piece of work, plus a beautiful garden as well!
Written 28 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ken
Auckland Central, New Zealand2 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Quite simply a must visit to soak in the visual splendar of the creations..
There is literally something for everyone.
We strict a lovely day which just enhanced the experience.
I'm sure I missed so much that next time I'm in Akaroa I'll visit again - the detail, gardens & music enhance the experience
There is literally something for everyone.
We strict a lovely day which just enhanced the experience.
I'm sure I missed so much that next time I'm in Akaroa I'll visit again - the detail, gardens & music enhance the experience
Written 22 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helen S
3 contributions
Jul 2023
The children really loved the experience as did their nan. There was such a variety of different statues- so colourful and unique. Josie Martin is so clever at using her imagination for some amazing creations
Written 7 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lance555
Toronto, Canada11 contributions
Arriving by tendered cruise ship Nov 3/19. Do you know how far a walk it is from the wharf to the Giant's House? Will the gardens be in bloom this time of year? Is there still a free shuttle service. And how long is the average tour within the Giant's House property? Thanks
Glenn W
Hamilton, Australia602 contributions
It can be walked, we are in our sixties and made it, we took a couple of short rests but it can be done, once into town and that is easy from the jetty, it is up hill to the giants house, the last bit quite steep, have water and good walking shoes, it is quite a scenic walk.
Trip391623
Dunedin, New Zealand
Can you please tell me how far apart is ko tane garden and giant house please and thank you
James B
Newcastle, Australia561 contributions
The Garden of Tane and the Giants House are about 30 - 40 minutes walking time apart.
To go to the Giants House you turn left from the jetty and head through the village and take a right turn up the hill - about 25 minutes. Look at the map they will give you to see the street you take.
The Garden of Tane is in the other direction from the jetty exit so depending on how much time you have you may need to choose between the two.
Are you allowed to bring dogs here?
Josie M
Akaroa, New Zealand6 contributions
Very sorry, unfortunately not..!
Francis V
Rhoon, The Netherlands54 contributions
Hi Josie, we will be in Akaroa in december 2017 by Cruise ship. I use a small mobility scooter, with small wheels. Would it be possible for me to visit the garden and house? I can walk short distances.
Josie M
Akaroa, New Zealand6 contributions
Hello Francis,
First of all sorry this response is so late, just saw your question.
Its is possible for you to come to the garden, but you will probably not be able to access the top parts of the garden, but you will be able to see most of it from the bottom lawn. The driveway is quite steep, not sure if the scooter would be able to come up it. But, if it can the person on the entrance will be able to open the driveway gate for you, so no steeps to access the bottom portion of the garden. Hope to see you at The Giants House and I hope this information helps.
Kind Regards
Josie
Richard G
Perth, Australia3 contributions
what is the entrance fee
is there a shuttle bus from port
NicolGreece
Athens, Greece7 contributions
It's 20$ to get it
When cruise ships are tendering there are shuttle buses running along the port but u still have to walk up the hill from the main road !!!!
Richard G
Perth, Australia3 contributions
What is the entrance fee .
is there a shuttle bus at port
E2363ODstephenl
Poole, United Kingdom102 contributions
•Garden visit : $20 per adult, $10 per child (2 - 15 years of age)
•Family Concession Prices:
◦2 Adults + 1 Child $45
◦2 Adults + 2 Children $50
◦2 Adults + 3 Children $55
◦2 Adults + 4 Children $60
◦Students (with ID) $17
◦Seniors (with NZ gold card ID) $17
•For group visits (10 or more) to see both the house, gallery and the garden: $22.50pp+ GST
•Garden visit : $20 per adult, $10 per child (2 - 15 years of age)
•Family Concession Prices:
◦2 Adults + 1 Child $45
◦2 Adults + 2 Children $50
◦2 Adults + 3 Children $55
◦2 Adults + 4 Children $60
◦Students (with ID) $17
◦Seniors (with NZ gold card ID) $17
•For group visits (10 or more) to see both the house, gallery and the garden: $22.50pp+ GST
moonshine17
Sheffield, UK10 contributions
We are coming to Akaroa in February on a cruise ship, how far are you from the cruise port and how much is the entrance fee.
We would love to visit The Giants House
Kind regards
Josie M
Akaroa, New Zealand6 contributions
Hello,
We are about 15minute walk from the location you will get of the ship, there is also a free shuttle available, which will drop you off at the entrance, my access is a bit steep so please wear suitable foot wear...please see my website for any more info thegiantshouse co nz
Kind regards
Josie
carole g
Kempsey, Australia9 contributions
Hello,
are you able to stay overnight and what is the cost?Is their a restaurant for dinner or just a day cafe? what type of food and cost?
Carole
Josie M
Akaroa, New Zealand6 contributions
Hi Carol,
Yes, I do Bed and breakfast.. Please have a look on my website for prices. thegiantshouse co nz
I Have a lovely garden cafe which is only open in summer garden hours..
Hope that helps..
Kind regards
Josie
Vicky
Hong Kong, China100 contributions
Hi, as I don't know how to drive, is there any public transport that I can get there? Thanks a lot.
Josie M
Akaroa, New Zealand6 contributions
Hi Vicky,
Yes, you can catch the French Connection or Akaroa Shuttle bus..they leave daily from Christchurch...
Hope that helps, and love forward to having you at The Giants House...
kind Regards
Josie
Sharon F
Yeppoon, Queensland, Australia
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Josie M
Akaroa, New Zealand6 contributions
Hello,
You can drive all the way to the top of the drive, just ask the lady on the gate, who will open the gate for you...the bottom part of the garden is flat (with grass and gravel) and you can see most of the garden from the bottom. and the garden cafe is at the bottom..
There are pictures on my website thegiantshouse
Hope that helps, and hope to see you here..
Kind regards
Josie
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Claim your listingTHE GIANTS HOUSE: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about The Giants House
- Hotels near The Giants House:
- (0.00 km) Linton of Akaroa
- (0.01 km) La Maison de Manu Waiata - Akaroa Holiday Home
- (0.05 km) Akaroa Sunshine Views and Spa Pool !!
- (0.09 km) Spacious Modern Family Home
- (0.16 km) La Petite Maison - Akaroa Holiday Home, No village
- Restaurants near The Giants House:
- (0.00 km) The Artist's Palate
- (0.72 km) Mandala Restaurant
- (0.72 km) The Little Bistro
- (0.66 km) HarBar
- (0.68 km) Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar