Assisi - An Unexpected Rural Wairarapa Surprise

Assisi Gardens, Te Kopi Rd., Gladstone, Wairarapa

Well, 'What do you know?" New Zealand, Wairarapa to be more specific has its own Assisi. Assisi Gardens above Te Kopi Rd., Gladstone have been developed from scratch by Andrew & Cec Buchanan over the past 15 years. This magnificent, secluded, rural, retreat has been lovingly planted, landscaped, developed and maintained so well that it has become a garden of national significance - see NZ Gardens Trust. 

I wandered in unplanned  early August 2015 while filling in time whilst in the Wairarapa. The drive in takes one to 225m ASL. At this height there is a definite micro climate for this garden tucked away in the Gladstone hills. The garden is open and accessible to the public daily, year round. There is access for buses and the venue is used for weddings and other functions. Large Marquees can be erected on a flat area adjacent the lower olive groves. The Lookout offers a wonderful panoramic view towards the residence and the southern Wairarapa. The walkway through the gardens (see diagram) took me around 40 mins. with a few stops. This definitely is walking to be savoured and approached meditatively.

I came away thinking what a wonderful place for Retreat - perhaps a day retreat, but perhaps arrangements could be made with the owners for something more substantial in the nature of Retreat! This place is full of serendipity.

Terry Alve
7 August 2015

Opening Hours and Tariffs
Open all year from 8.30am
Entry by appointment
Adults $10

Contact Details and Location
Physical Address: 23 Te Kopi Rd, Te Whanga
Phone: 06 3727661
Email: assisinz@orcon.net.nz

Assisi Gardens Website

Wairarapa Times-Age Feature Aug 2013

CLICK IMAGE TO ENLARGE