Parnassus Farm & Garden

Parnassus is a dairy farm of 100 hectares including more than a hectare (three acres) established in garden. Named after Mt Parnassus, the sacred home of the deities in Greek mythology, the garden has developed since the farm orchard was begun in 1972, with the woodland area planted in 1987 and two ponds added in 1989. A trip to France in 1983 was the inspiration for the garden concept as a place to relax with refreshments and a range of accommodation available.

The house garden features roses complemented with spring shrubs. Beyond, a horseshoe of camellias, magnolias, dogwoods and malus providing spring blossom encircles the formal rose bowl which is a blaze of fiery colours in summer. This is flanked by the ponds, the top pond garden planted with hebes, camellias, magnolias, maples, and futher roses. The lower pond garden features mainly perennials including nativre arthropodiums. A shady garden room contrasts with an adjoining hot spot and an adjacent enclosed area provides a quiet garden. Beyond the woodland area is a tilia avenue leading to further planting on the boundary which forms the farm walk. After the spring and summer colours, dahlias, chrysanthemums, and autumn foliage feature, but green on green is also cleverly used throughout the garden.

Parnassus promotes a farm to fork experience. Kitchen vegetable plots, the berry courtyard and traditional farm orchards provide fresh produce for delicious brunches, lunches and farmhouse morning and afternooon teas. From figs and quinces to olives and persimmons, rhubarb, artichokes and pumpkins, there is plenty of variety to suit every palate.

Directions:

1 hour south of Auckland. From north, take SH 1 towards Huntly. Turn right across Rangiriri Bridge towards Glen Murray. Turn left into Te Ohaki Rd. Travel 12km to Parnassus on right. Or from south, take SH 1 to Huntly. Turn left across Tainui Bridge. Turn right to power station. Take Te Ohaki Rd & travel 2km to Parnassus on left.