Mona Vale
An Edwardian-era garden estate on the upper Avon River, with a rose garden, fernery and riverside lawns that are elegant and peaceful. You can hire a punt here.
Mona Vale is a Tudor Revival mansion built between 1899 and 1905. In the 1960s the city council bought it and opened it to the public. The gardens stretch along the Avon River, with a rose garden, iris garden, fernery, lily pond and large lawns. Rhododendrons in spring and autumn foliage are especially lovely. The Gatehouse café inside the estate serves afternoon tea. Entry to the gardens is free, and there is a punting landing here that is quieter than the city centre. It is about 3 km from the city centre and can be reached by cycling along the river.
Opening hours
Gardens approx. 7:00 AM–sunset
Nearby sights
- Riccarton House & Bush
- Hagley Park & Christchurch Botanic Gardens
- TranzAlpine Train
- Punting on the Avon
- The Arts Centre Te Matatiki Toi Ora
- Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū
- Quake City
- Bridge of Remembrance