The Giants House Akaroa
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The Giants House Akaroa

4.6
·1k reviews·Akaroa, New Zealand

A whimsical wonderland of mosaic art and sculptures, The Giant's House is a historic villa transformed into an immersive artistic masterpiece.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
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The Giants House Akaroa

The Giants House Akaroa

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more serene

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A whimsical wonderland of mosaic art and sculptures, The Giant's House is a historic villa transformed into an immersive artistic masterpiece.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"An absolute must-visit in Akaroa! The Giant House is a spectacular masterpiece – vibrant, whimsical, and unlike anything we’ve ever seen."

Vertical photo
TIP

Allow ample time to explore

Don't rush! There are countless details to discover in the mosaic garden. :stopwatch:

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the multi-level gardens. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Mosaic Garden Wonderland

Mosaic Garden Wonderland

Gardens

A vibrant, whimsical explosion of color and creativity, with every corner bursting with mosaic art and sculptures.

Whimsical Sculptures

Whimsical Sculptures

Throughout the property

Discover unique and playful art pieces, from teacup mosaics to surprising ceramic creations.

Historic Villa Charm

Historic Villa Charm

The House

Explore the charming 1880s villa, the foundation of this artistic wonderland, offering a glimpse into its past.

Sweet Patooti Piano

Sweet Patooti Piano

Garden

A particularly inspired example of artistic whimsy, this piano is a unique photo opportunity.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Artistry

The Giant's House is a testament to one artist's decades-long vision. Prepare to be immersed in a whimsical world of mosaics and sculptures. Allow ample time to wander and discover hidden details.

Timing is Key for Tranquility

While the magic of The Giant's House is year-round, visiting during quieter periods, like early September, enhances the intimate feel. Peak season can bring larger crowds, so consider weekdays for a more personal experience.

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more serene
Crowd
Low
When
Early September
Why
Quiet and intimate feel
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Enjoy the cafe
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

So rainy in Cornwall today! Here's a New Zealand flashback for you. The Giant's House at Akaroa. #mosaic #giant #akaroa
nikiwillowsprints
14 likes • 311 views

Allow ample time to explore

Don't rush! There are countless details to discover in the mosaic garden. :stopwatch:

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the multi-level gardens. :athletic_shoe:

🌸🎨 A magical stop today at The Giants House in Akaroa – the creation of local artist Josie Martin, who has spent decades transforming her historic villa and garden into a colourful mosaic wonderland. Every corner bursts with art, sculptures, and surprises – it’s no wonder it’s become one of Banks Peninsula’s most loved attractions. If you haven’t been, it’s well worth the wander ✨🌿 #Akaroa #Bank...
traceylmclellan
12 likes • 358 views
New Zealand: Unusual things to do in NZ Part 2 The Giants House is Akaroa is a incredible place to explore and the gardens that owner Josie has designed is a real marvel The mosaic work and sculptures are a real assault on the senses and visitors will delight in all the surprises around every corner The view from the Giants House on the hill is really pretty too! It’s a real masterpiece, a ...
backyardtravelfamily
348 likes • 15.1K views

Visit during quieter times

Weekdays or shoulder seasons offer a more peaceful experience. :sunrise:

Enjoy the cafe treats

The delightful cafe offers homemade goodies and refreshments. :coffee:

📍The Giants House, Akaroa Mosaic Garden/ contempoary art by artist Josie Martin on her property. The house was built in 1880 by the first bank manager to come to akaroa from Linton England. The artist Josie Martin has lived at 'The Giants House' for 26 years and has worked on the gardens for the past 22 years as there was no garden when Josie first moved in. The idea came when she unveiled s...
chaos.caravan.nz
14 likes • 173 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Allow ample time to explore

Don't rush! There are countless details to discover in the mosaic garden. :stopwatch:

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring the multi-level gardens. :athletic_shoe:

Visit during quieter times

Weekdays or shoulder seasons offer a more peaceful experience. :sunrise:

Enjoy the cafe treats

The delightful cafe offers homemade goodies and refreshments. :coffee:

Capture the magic

Bring your camera or phone to capture the vibrant art and unique sculptures. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise The Giant's House as an absolute must-visit in Akaroa, describing it as a spectacular, vibrant, and whimsical masterpiece unlike anything they've seen. The mosaic garden is frequently highlighted as magical, bursting with color and incredible detail, making it feel like stepping into a living artwork. Many appreciate the sheer scale of the work, often noting it's hard to fathom it's the creation of primarily one person over many years.

"Wow! Ok so this place is absolutely amazing. We loved looking around the beautiful garden, there is so much to look at. The sculptures are incredible, I took so many cool photos here and I really want to go back. A maze of mosaics!"

Zan Na

"This is an amazing place for everyone to visit! So artistic with beautiful flowers and plants! Definitely come back again with my friends and family🥰"

Lisa Dong

"⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An absolute must-visit in Akaroa! The Giant House is a spectacular masterpiece — vibrant, whimsical, and unlike anything we’ve ever seen. The mosaic garden is simply magical, with every corner bursting with colour, creativity, and incredible detail. It feels like stepping into a living artwork. The house and garden together are a true celebration of art, imagination, and joy. A perfect experience for all ages — we left feeling inspired and uplifted. My 3 year old daughter loved it. Highly recommend!"

Sharon Tumminello

What People Like

Spectacular mosaic art
Whimsical and vibrant gardens
Unique artistic vision

What People Dislike

Can be crowded in peak season

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Giant's House is located in Akaroa, on the Banks Peninsula, about a 1.5-hour drive from Christchurch. Many visitors drive their own car or a rental car. The drive itself offers scenic views of the peninsula. :car: Instagram

Yes, there are bus services that run from Christchurch to Akaroa, making it accessible without a car. Once in Akaroa, The Giant's House is a short drive or a longer walk from the town center. :bus:

There is typically parking available at The Giant's House, which is convenient for those arriving by car. :parking:

It's possible to walk, but it's a bit of a trek uphill. The walk can take around 30-45 minutes depending on your pace. Taxis or a short drive are more common. :walking:

Some local Akaroa tours may include a stop at The Giant's House, especially those focusing on local attractions and art. It's worth checking with local tour operators. :tour_bus:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is an admission fee to enter The Giant's House and explore the gardens. Pricing details are usually available on their official website or at the entrance. :moneybag:

While not always mandatory, booking tickets in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, is recommended to guarantee entry and avoid queues. :ticket:

Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit. :clock1:

The Giant's House is generally open year-round, but it's always wise to confirm their operating schedule, especially around public holidays. :calendar:

Discounts may be available for children, seniors, or group bookings. Check their website or inquire directly for any applicable concession rates. :discount:

📸 📸 Photography & Art

Yes, photography is generally encouraged to capture the vibrant mosaics and sculptures. However, be mindful of other visitors and private areas. :iphone: Instagram

Expect a unique and eclectic collection of mosaic art and sculptures created by artist Josie Martin over decades, transforming everyday objects into stunning art. :art: Instagram

The incredible art is the work of local artist Josie Martin, who has dedicated over 20 years to creating this mosaic wonderland. :artist: Instagram

Every corner is a photo opportunity! Popular spots include the colorful mosaic pathways, the whimsical sculptures, and the charming historic villa. :camera: Instagram

While the focus is on the experience, there might be opportunities to purchase smaller art pieces or souvenirs related to The Giant's House. Inquire on-site. :gift:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Refreshments

Yes, there is a delightful cafe on-site that serves homemade goodies and refreshments, perfect for a break during your visit. :coffee: Reddit

The cafe typically offers a selection of homemade cakes, slices, and other light refreshments, often with a focus on quality and presentation. :cake:

It's generally best to consume your own food and drinks in designated areas or outside the main attraction. The on-site cafe is a great option for refreshments. :picnic_table:

Akaroa town has a variety of charming cafes, restaurants, and bakeries offering diverse culinary experiences, from seafood to French-inspired cuisine. :forkandknife:

It's advisable to inquire directly with the cafe staff about options for dietary restrictions, as offerings can vary. :leafy_green:

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the gardens and enjoying the art. You could easily spend longer if you linger at the cafe or want to soak in the atmosphere. :hourglass: Reddit

Absolutely! Children are often captivated by the vibrant colors and whimsical sculptures. It's a magical place for families. :child: Instagram

The garden has multiple levels and can be uneven in places. While some areas are accessible, it may be challenging for strollers or wheelchairs in certain sections. :wheelchair:

Yes, The Giant's House also operates as a bed and breakfast, offering a unique accommodation experience amidst the art. :bed:

Its uniqueness lies in the sheer scale of mosaic art created by a single artist over decades, transforming a historic property into an immersive, whimsical wonderland. :sparkles: Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Giant's House is a fantastic destination for families. The vibrant colors and whimsical sculptures are incredibly engaging for children, sparking their imagination and sense of wonder. It's a place where kids can explore and discover hidden artistic treasures around every corner. Instagram

Encourage your little ones to point out their favorite sculptures and mosaics. The multi-level garden offers a fun sense of adventure. Consider bringing snacks or enjoying a treat at the on-site cafe to make the visit even more enjoyable for the whole family. :lollipop:

🎨 Art & Garden Enthusiasts

For those who appreciate art and horticulture, The Giant's House is a must-visit. The sheer scale and intricate detail of Josie Martin's mosaic work are astounding, showcasing a unique blend of contemporary art and garden design. InstagramReddit

Take your time to study the techniques, the materials used, and the creative vision behind each piece. The garden itself is a work of art, thoughtfully designed to complement the sculptures and create a harmonious, immersive experience. :paintbrush:

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

The Giant's House is a photographer's dream, offering endless opportunities for stunning and unique shots. The vibrant mosaics, quirky sculptures, and charming villa provide a colorful and imaginative backdrop. Instagram+1

Experiment with different angles and lighting to capture the magic. Don't forget to photograph the details – the intricate patterns, the playful expressions on the sculptures, and the overall artistic ambiance. It's a place that guarantees visually striking content for your feed. :camerawithflash:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Artistic Vision of Josie Martin

The Giant's House is the extraordinary creation of artist Josie Martin. For over two decades, she has meticulously transformed her historic villa and its grounds into a breathtaking mosaic wonderland. Her artistic journey began when she first moved into the 1880s villa, which had no existing garden. What started as a personal project has blossomed into one of Akaroa's most beloved attractions. Instagram+1

Josie's work is characterized by its vibrant colors, playful designs, and the ingenious use of found objects. From broken teacups and bathroom tiles to ceramics and glass, she breathes new life into discarded materials, creating intricate mosaics and whimsical sculptures. Her dedication and passion are evident in every detail, making The Giant's House a true testament to the power of artistic vision and perseverance. Instagram+1

Visitors often express awe at the sheer scale and detail of Josie's work, noting how it feels like stepping into a living artwork. The garden itself is a masterpiece, with sculptures and mosaic pathways winding through different levels, offering surprises around every corner. It's a place that sparks wonder and imagination for all ages. InstagramReddit

Exploring the Mosaic Gardens

The gardens at The Giant's House are an absolute highlight, offering a labyrinth of color, texture, and artistic surprises. As you wander through the multi-level landscape, you'll discover an incredible array of mosaic sculptures, intricate wall art, and charming decorative elements. Each section of the garden has its own unique character, inviting exploration and discovery. Instagram+1

Prepare to be delighted by the whimsical nature of the art. You might find mosaic-covered benches, fantastical creatures peeking from foliage, or beautifully decorated pathways that guide you through the space. The use of vibrant tiles and ceramics creates a dazzling visual spectacle, especially when the sun catches the surfaces. Instagram+1

Many visitors recommend taking your time to truly appreciate the details. It's easy to spend hours here, simply strolling, admiring the craftsmanship, and finding your favorite artistic nooks. The multi-level design also offers lovely vantage points and a sense of discovery as you ascend or descend through the garden. Reddit

A Unique Akaroa Experience

Nestled in the charming French-inspired town of Akaroa, The Giant's House offers a distinct and memorable experience that sets it apart from other attractions. While Akaroa is known for its beautiful harbor and dolphin watching, this artistic haven provides a different kind of magic. Instagram

It's a place that truly engages the senses, offering a visual feast of color and creativity. The whimsical nature of the mosaics and sculptures creates a playful and uplifting atmosphere, making it a perfect stop for anyone looking for something a little out of the ordinary. Instagram

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a garden lover, or simply seeking a unique and inspiring place to visit, The Giant's House delivers. It's a testament to individual passion and creativity, leaving visitors with a sense of wonder and a collection of unforgettable memories. Instagram

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