The Giants House, Akaroa: Hours, Address, The Giants House Reviews: 4.5/5
The Giants House
The Giants House
4.5
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Monday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Tuesday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 2:00 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!
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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Learn moreTop ways to experience The Giants House and nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
22 within 5 kms

The Little Bistro
1,133
0.7 km$$$$ • French • European • Contemporary

Mandala Restaurant
160
0.7 km$$ - $$$ • Indian • Healthy • Vegetarian Friendly

Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar
515
0.7 km$$ - $$$ • Seafood • International • New Zealand

HarBar
433
0.7 km$$ - $$$ • Bar • Vegetarian Friendly • Gluten Free Options

La Rangis Pizzeria
107
0.6 km$ • Quick Bites • Pizza • Fast food

The Brasserie Kitchen Cafe Bar
797
0.7 km$$ - $$$ • Cafe • European • Healthy

Peninsula General Store
111
0.7 km$$ - $$$ • Quick Bites • Cafe • International

Butchery & Deli
42
0.6 km$$ - $$$ • Speciality Food Market • New Zealand

Waffle Haus Akaroa
44
0.7 km$$ - $$$ • Dessert • Belgian • Cafe

Bully Hayes Restaurant & Bar
1,259
0.8 km$$ - $$$ • Bar • Seafood • International
Attractions
19 within 10 kms

Banks Peninsula Track
4
0.3 kmHiking Trails

Akaroa Lighthouse
245
0.6 kmLighthouses

Akaroa Museum
260
0.6 kmHistory Museums

Banks Peninsula War Memorial and Grounds
146
0.6 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

Saint Peter's Anglican Church
59
0.5 kmChurches & Cathedrals

Catholic St. Patrick's Akaroa
100
0.7 kmReligious Sites

Orion Powerhouse Gallery
12
0.7 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Meniscus Wine Lounge
8
0.7 kmWineries & Vineyards

Coronation Library
6
0.8 kmPoints of Interest & Landmarks

Hinewai Reserve
92
1.7 kmNature & Wildlife Areas
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,317 reviews
Excellent
1,075
Very good
173
Average
39
Poor
18
Terrible
12
Robert R
1 contribution
Couples
We had a great time exploring Akaroa aswell as many other locations around Banks Peninsula. Such a rich history here.
One of the highlights was visiting the museum at Okains Bay. This is a lifetimes work of of one man and continued by a dedicated group of volunteers.
It offers such a huge range of taonga Māori and early Pakeheā items that you can interact with. This small private museum is much more enjoyable to visit than the sterile atmosphere of TePapa.
The Giants House was also well worth the Visit.
One of the highlights was visiting the museum at Okains Bay. This is a lifetimes work of of one man and continued by a dedicated group of volunteers.
It offers such a huge range of taonga Māori and early Pakeheā items that you can interact with. This small private museum is much more enjoyable to visit than the sterile atmosphere of TePapa.
The Giants House was also well worth the Visit.
Written 26 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nina
Auckland, New Zealand10 contributions
Family
You just have to pay this place a visit when in Akaroa… the creativity and work that has gone into creating this magnificent place will leave you in awe… out of this world WOW factor!
Written 19 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
KiwiKerry53
Wellington, New Zealand4,580 contributions
What a strange place! A bit reminiscent of Gaudi in Spain, but not quite getting there. Regardless worth a visit, it is colourful and fun if nothing else!
Written 29 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
SD2606
Christchurch, New Zealand1,753 contributions
Family
It is a bit pricey to go in, $50 for two adults and a 4 year old.
However it is quite spectacular, interesting, attractive and enjoyable to walk around exploring the works of art. It reminds me of Antoni Gaudí’s work.
It is up a very steep drive. No parking at the top.
The garden is filled with sculptures that the artist has created with mosaic tiles. She lives there onsite.
The garden itself is quite steep too. Wouldn’t recommend it to push chairs or wheelchairs sorry.
I had my very inquisitive two year old with us and it was a bit hectic with her, full anxiety levels as she wanted to touch everything. And upon entry you are told not to touch or sit on anything. Just a heads up!
Lovely thing to do for half an hour or so.
However it is quite spectacular, interesting, attractive and enjoyable to walk around exploring the works of art. It reminds me of Antoni Gaudí’s work.
It is up a very steep drive. No parking at the top.
The garden is filled with sculptures that the artist has created with mosaic tiles. She lives there onsite.
The garden itself is quite steep too. Wouldn’t recommend it to push chairs or wheelchairs sorry.
I had my very inquisitive two year old with us and it was a bit hectic with her, full anxiety levels as she wanted to touch everything. And upon entry you are told not to touch or sit on anything. Just a heads up!
Lovely thing to do for half an hour or so.
Written 28 June 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Althea L
Auckland Central, New Zealand16 contributions
Friends
An amazing place with something new to see at every turn of the head. Spent about an hour and a half there, and kept seeing new things. Went with friends who did not always follow the same path as us, and they saw different things.
Written 27 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nigel G
Auckland, New Zealand20 contributions
This was a fantastic experience ... almost unbelievable that someone could make all this fantasy land and figures out of ceramics.
Written 25 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
FrequentFlier449833
Dunedin, New Zealand4 contributions
Solo
Simply fabulous. Got to the top of the driveway and saw the price so hubby decided not to join me, his loss, it was amazing! I would recommend going hungry and buying a snack while you are there. I loved every little thing about it. I would definitely go again.
Written 20 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
paula l
Christchurch, New Zealand439 contributions
Been wanting to go for years, delighted to finally get there as it is in stunning setting. Amazing. Passionate about art & colour, the owner has dreamt up & then created an amazing world for both adults & children. Every angle shows a different perspective of colour & shape combined with the well planned out plantings. The art gallery portion & video presentation give a good insight. A peak inside the front door & thru the windows to the eclectic inside is tantalising, the sunroom just spectacular alongside the bedroom. Would love to stay. Looking out serenely across the valley, wonderful music sets the tune for fun, would be great at night as it lit up as well. Thoroughly recommend, we were there just on 2 hours & could have stayed longer easily.
Written 18 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
zhuhai2007
Christchurch, New Zealand49,043 contributions
Exceeded my expectations - whimsy at every turn. Prime exhibit IMO had to be the grand piano full of succulents. Overall the garden is stunning with a carefully curated range of plants that complement the sculpture at every turn.
Written 8 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Raewyn H
6 contributions
This is way above what I expected. I had heard people say it is a must do and now I know why. Just one of those happy places that lifts your spirits as soon as you hear the music and you are absorbed by the colour and vibrancy. So much to see and take in - every nook and cranny has an interesting subject to look at. Outstanding.
Written 2 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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, Australia579 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, Australia534 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 Zealand5 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 Zealand5 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 Zealand5 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 Zealand5 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, China99 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 Zealand5 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 Zealand5 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
Frequently Asked Questions about The Giants House
- The Giants House is open:
- Sun - Sat 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM
- We recommend booking The Giants House tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your tour starts for a full refund. See all 3 The Giants House tours on Tripadvisor
- Hotels near The Giants House:
- (0.00 km) Linton of Akaroa
- (0.09 km) Spacious Modern Family Home
- (0.38 km) Blythcliffe
- (0.20 km) Caroline Cottage tucked away treasure
- (0.20 km) Tranquil Bush Setting with Sea Outlook.
- Restaurants near The Giants House:
- (0.00 km) The Artist's Palate
- (0.72 km) The Little Bistro
- (0.72 km) Mandala Restaurant
- (0.68 km) Ma Maison Restaurant & Bar
- (0.66 km) HarBar