Visitors come to Mona Vale to walk along the Avon River, visit the rose garden, or check out the beautiful fernery. The grounds are free to enter, and unless you’re getting married on the Iris Lawn, the other main draw is a relaxed bite at the Pantry, which serves brunch and high tea. From mini scones to club sandwiches, it’s a classic menu.
Mona Vale is also an included stop on some tours of Christchurch, often combined with other area gardens or attractions.
Mona Vale Homestead is located at 40 Mona Vale Avenue, northwest of the Christchurch city center. The closest bus stop is located on Straven Road near Rockdale Street, with service from Route 100 Wigram to The Palms. It’s also an included stop on some hop-on hop-off tours of Christchurch. Free parking is available by the Mona Vale Avenue entrance.
The Mona Vale gardens are open daily throughout the year. Café hours vary with the season: It’s open Wednesday through Sunday during daylight savings hours and on the weekends during the winter. If you’re hoping to see roses, they’re generally in full bloom by December.
Mona Vale isn’t the only place to spot blossoms in town. From the first spring daffodils to autumn foliage, Christchurch Botanic Gardens are a highlight, with grounds that are free to enter. Less well-known is the Sanitarium Factory Garden, which draws buzzing pollinators to its rhododendrons, roses, and other blooms.