Akaroa Giants House

Perched on the hillside above the charming French-influenced harbour town of Akaroa, the Giants House is a whimsical mosaic wonderland that defies easy description. Created by local artist Josie Martin over two decades, this eccentric garden and gallery is a riot of colour, texture, and imagination – a living artwork where every surface shimmers with broken tiles, shells, and found objects. It’s a place that rewards slow exploration, with hidden nooks, quirky sculptures, and sweeping views across Akaroa Harbour.

Highlights & What to See

• Mosaic Garden: Wander through terraced gardens adorned with intricate mosaics – fantastical creatures, abstract patterns, and playful scenes that blend into the landscape.
• Giants House Gallery: Inside the cottage, see more of Josie Martin’s mosaic and mixed-media works, including furniture and wall art.
• Harbour Views: The elevated position offers stunning panoramas over Akaroa’s volcanic crater harbour – perfect for photos.
• Unique Architecture: The house itself is a quirky blend of Gothic and whimsical, with mosaic-covered chimneys and a fairy-tale feel.
• Seasonal Blooms: Depending on when you visit, the garden is alive with roses, lavender, and native plants that frame the mosaics beautifully.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–1.5 hours to fully appreciate the garden and gallery. The site is compact but dense with detail, so take your time to notice the tiny mosaic pieces and playful surprises. Combine with a morning or afternoon exploring Akaroa’s historic streets, French bakeries, and harbour cruises for a full day out from Christchurch.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Akaroa Township: Stroll the waterfront, visit the Akaroa Museum, and sample local cheese or fish and chips.
• Banks Peninsula Walkways: Hike the Banks Peninsula Track or the Summit Walk for dramatic coastal views.
• Christchurch: The garden city is about 1.5 hours’ drive away, with its Botanic Gardens, Canterbury Museum, and vibrant food scene.
• Waipara Wine Region: On the way back north, stop for tastings at award-winning vineyards like Pegasus Bay or Mud House.

Please check official sources for current details.