Okuku Country Estate and Birch Hill Homestead
Your fully escorted tour begins as you travel into the rural heartland and magnificent landscape of the Canterbury foothills, just 45 minutes from Christchurch. High above the Ashely River is Okuku Country Estate a restored, elegantly refurbished 1920's Italian Renaissance style country home, with grand sweeping verandas, large wooden columns and full-arched French doors. Experience the ambience of beautiful furniture, fine china and interesting artworks as you tour and share this wonderful estate with the owners. Absorb the calm country air and native bird song as you wander through woodland gardens, towering Redwoods, Oaks and Chestnut trees planted at the time of the original homestead in the 1890's.
You next travel down a rural country road where nestled under Mount Thomas in an historic and picturesque setting is Birch Hill Homestead, a 1908 Arts and Craft's gem in exquisite original condition, set in expansive grounds. The owners will share with you the colonial history of their home and collection of original New Zealand art works, many capturing the South Island stunning scenery. Still a private home, Birch Hill Homestead provides a unique window into the past, sharing the stillness of unhurried times gone by... Your tour unfolds as you are taken on a guided Memorial walk through rustic farmland to a hidden gem of World War I history, seldom seen due to its unique secluded setting.
'A joy to visit and a privilege to share'
For further information and to discuss your tailormade tour options please click Enquiries - we look forward to being of assistance
For information on travel visit http://www.shuttletours.co.nz/
