Fernside
★★★★★
Fernside began as the country retreat of the pioneering Elgar family, who transformed a modest holding into one of the Wairarapa's leading estates. After fire destroyed the original house, they commissioned architect Heathcote Helmore to design a new Neo‑Georgian homestead, completed in 1924 and hailed as one of New Zealand's most modern country houses, complete with the nation's first private lift. Later the official residence of the United States Ambassador to New Zealand, Fernside is now cherished for its layered history and distinctive Arts and Crafts gardens, where formal design, mature trees, and reflective water create a uniquely historic landscape.
The gardens combine formal and informal design: structured beds and strong axial vistas are balanced by open lawns, mature specimen trees, and romantic water features. Paths lead through secluded garden rooms to the lake, where bridges, plantings, and reflections create a distinctive, almost otherworldly atmosphere. This lakeside setting, along with the broader landscape, has contributed to Fernside's recognition as both a place of heritage value and a notable film location connected with the Lord of the Rings series.
The garden has an enchanted wood feel attributed to its many shaded glades of heelbores, avenues of Bluebells, knot gardens, wandering Peacocks and the lake which was featured in two Lord of the Rings films. The reflective qualities of the lake and water features leave the visitor with many memorable visions.
Historic elements of the garden (dating to pre 1900) include the man-made lake fed by the Longwood Water Race, the Lutyens style rill and sound shell, and a Victorian sunken garden complete with an ornamental well. Our signature trees include a large weeping Kashmir Cypress, Oaks planted in 1870 and native beech trees up to 300 years old.
The garden lies between Featherston and Greytown.
Facilities and Amenities
-
Guided walks are 11am weekdays. You are welcome to stay onsite after the walk to have a picnic and to enjoy the gardens.
-
Open between 10.45am – 3pm weekdays by appointment.
Tour groups and coaches welcome.
$42 per person.
-
Book your visit here: https://fernside.garden/#book
For larger groups contact Jess on fernside.gardens@gmail.com
