Giants House

This distinctive hub of sculptures, gardens, and overall artistic creativity is an unexpectedly magical place that's full of surprises; it's quite unlike anywhere else in New Zealand and remains something of a hidden treasure. Rather than simply display works of art within a sterile gallery, at Akaroa's The Giant's House, its various mosaic figures are integrated organically into some immaculate gardens all perched in a lovely hillside location, which when combined makes for a new and quirky photo opportunity around every corner. Full of vibrancy and colour, every step along the attraction's winding paths leads to a new discovery, with a mixture of figures of both animals and people created in ceramic by talented owner/artist Josie Martin. There are decades worth of work on display here, full of wonderful attention to detail - even adults will garner a feeling of being reverted back to their childhood due to the undeniable "fairytale" aura that the gardens emit. There are undeniable elements of the likes of Gaudi who have gone into inspiring the figures' creation, yet the style is something entirely original. Kids will find this place a wonderland; adults will admire the raw skill and dedication. Few attractions so expertly blend together both gardening and art, and it's this overall package of uniqueness that makes The Giant's House a highly memorable visit.