The Giants House, Akaroa

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During COVID-19 in 2020, I read an article on a sculptured mosaic garden situated at Akaroa in New Zealand and vowed that one day I would visit. That time came in October when I flew to the country for a two-week holiday.



The Giants House is located in the small historic town of Akaroa, approximately one hour and thirty minutes drive from Christchurch. The road is sealed but becomes windy as you near Akaroa, which is sheltered and surrounded by the remnants of the Banks Peninsula Volcano. In years past, Akaroa was also used as a whaling base.



The Giants House is located at 68 Rue Balguerie, a small street. When cars are parked on either side of the road, giving way to traffic is necessary. There is no parking at the house, so parking is required on the street, and a steep walk up to the gardens is required.



It was said that the gardens started with the idea of tiling an area at the front door where the grass did not grow. Once owner Josie Martin started digging the earth, she found many broken bottles and tiles, which inspired her creations to come to life.



Josie is a qualified horticulturist and Fellow of the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture, a painter, sculptor and ceramicist and likes experimenting with ideas while exploring paint, colour, and forms. This is certainly obvious by the variety of sculptures at the House.



The magazine article that I read, featured the piano in the front yard, but once I entered the House gates, I realised there were so many more captivating figures to be seen. It was very pleasant to wander around the sculptures, some of which were erected high on the hill above the entry, and also to enjoy the abundant fruit trees and blossoming garden beds which were mingled through the walkways. The concept of balancing nature with art has been achieved.



Josie is a regular exhibitor both solo and group expos in New Zealand and overseas. She has also been commissioned by overseas residences to sculpt unique pieces for the client’s requirements. Her work has been featured on both Australian and New Zealand television and magazines.



The Giants House is open to the public and on the day I visited an adult entry fee was $35.00, $20.00 for a child aged between two and fifteen years, as well as concession options for families and groups. Before visiting, it would be best to check opening times and prices via the website.

The Giants House certainly did not disappoint me and I recommend to anyone interested in art and sculpture to pay a visit when travelling through New Zealand.

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#outdoor
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#gardens
#art
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