With This Ring: March 23, 2018

GRACIOUS CANTERBURY
Christchurch is aptly named the Garden City and
several of its public gardens and parks can be used
for weddings for free or for a modest fee.
Established grounds, well maintained plantings and seasonal
colour provide a wonderful natural backdrop for an intimate
ceremony or photo location. Some can also be used for a
garden ceremony with permission from the local councils
that administer them and sometimes a modest fee or
donation. Beyond the city there are equally delightful outdoor
venues where your ceremony can be conducted simply and
inexpensively.
CHRISTCHURCH BOTANIC GARDENS
was established beside the Avon River in 1863
and an English oak was planted to celebrate
the marriage of Prince Albert and Princess
Alexandra of Denmark. Impressive plantings
over 21 acres include 5 specific areas available
for wedding ceremonies and photographs;
Cockayne Memorial Garden; The Pinetum;
The Azalea and Magnolia Garden; the historic
Bandsmen’s Memorial Garden and the
Daffodil Woodland, while the conservatory,
fernery, rock garden and water garden are
complemented by the iconic tea kiosk and new
visitor and function centre.
EDMONDS FACTORY GARDEN on Ferry Road is an oasis
of smooth lawns, bright borders, a rose garden and a lily pond
providing a variety of settings for a pretty wedding. Thomas
Edmonds, manufacturer of New Zealand’s baking powder,
commissioned the gardens to be built around his factory in
1923. Depicted on the cover of the iconic Edmonds Cookery
Book, the beautifully maintained garden is now all that remains
of the famous Christchurch landmark.
ORTON BRADLEY
PARK is located on the
shores of Lyttelton Harbour
overlooking Charteris Bay,
the tree lined grounds provide
a superbly natural setting for
picnics, events and weddings.
The old schoolhouse dating
from 1876 can also be hired
and will seat 40 guests.
MONA VALE'S beautiful
established grounds are
still available for outdoor
ceremonies and photographs
on the Mound Lawn, the
Mill Stream Lawn and the
formal surrounds of the Lily
Pond. The house has recently
re-opened as a function venue
following its earthquake
repair and refurbishment.
It is now back to its elegant
best so you could have your
reception here as well.
With This Ring 45
Gardens and Parks
WOODHAM PARK is beautifully endowed with mature trees
including Daimo Oak, Trembling Poplar, Chinese Wingnut and
Slippery Elm specimen varieties. Border plantings feature hedges of
laurel and yew and herbaceous plants interspersed with hydrangeas,
camellias and an outstanding selection of rhododendrons. Add a
romantic gazebo and you have a charming Old English style venue
for photos and ceremonies.
MORE INFORMATION WWW.CCC.GOVT.CO.NZ