Gwavas Garden Homestead

May 1st, 2022

Hubby and I were subjected to Stu and Phil Gibsons amazing hospitality last Sunday at one of the Spring Fling events. Absolutely everything from the delicious homemade morning tea, the guided walk through the native forest, tour of their beautiful family home and words can not describe the 3 course lunch that was served to us. One word, faultless. Thank you both and I highly appreciate the work you have done for the community in showcasing a truly amazing hidden gem. Kind regards Caroline
Jan 11th, 2022

One of the most beautiful old gardens I have ever visited. The vision and foresight of the earliest members of this family is astonishing. The woodland garden and walks are nothing short of magical with the stunning historic Gwavas Homestead at the center of it all. Phyllida and Stuart shared so much about the history and the working life of the place. We were treated to a perfect afternoon tea (home made GF treats to boot!) whilst the heavens opened and resumed our botanical walk later. Old fashioned NZ country hospitality at its VERY best. This is the real deal, old and young will be totally inspired and come away in awe of the place. Only sorry we did not have time for the Puahanui lowland podicarp bush restoration project - we will be back!
Aug 9th, 2021

Sadly, it wasnt worth the money nor the tour. Guide didnt really know all that much about tree's considering he lives out there, learn your product! Lunch was small, I was still hungry & the dessert i couldnt eat coz it was too sweet. Fruit would had been nice as an option or even scones and jam since it was a garden lunching. No information given on eventfinder about appropriate footwear nor the time to be there by. We weren't early but we certainly were not 11:15am either! I would have left them behind! The house needs more than a day to air out, it did smell old, damp and moth bally. Natural Lemon Grass oil would spruce up those smells effectively. Kind kitchen staff from when we saw them. Sis enjoyed herself, so, that's the main thing. (She's not let out very often)
Jan 26th, 2022

Gwavas garden and homestead is the most amazing place to visit - from the minute you turn off the main road into the most beautiful tree lined driveway you are filled with anticipation for whats next. We were lucky enough to have Swinhoe (bright blue) pheasants casually cross the road in front of us. Then we were welcomed by Phyllida and Stuart with an amazing homemade afternoon tea and an unexpected tour of the historic homestead where you really do feel the history - old damask curtains, totara wooden panelling, exquisite stained glass brought over from England back in the day and even old issues of Country Life, Punch and other papers. Then a walk in the woodland garden with Stu imparting his extensive knowledge on the history and genus of every tree and plant species. Ive truly never seen such huge rhododendron trees before. This internationally recognised garden is one of New Zealands special secret places just off the main road in rural Hawkes Bay - everyone should see it and Im lucky I have !
Nov 13th, 2021