Mona Vale Garden Park 40 Mona Vale Avenue, Riccarton, Christchurch, Canterbury 8011

"Mona Vale is beautiful all year round, though bear in mind the lawns can be very muddy and boggy in winter. Last week the magnolias were out and they were magnificent. It takes only about 20 minutes to meander through the park, and a bit longer if you look around the individual gardens. There are seats by the river where you can relax, and a café called The Pantry in the historic Mona Vale homestead. There aren't a lot of tables here and both times I've tried to walk in on a weekend morning, they've been fully booked - so book! However, we were able to sit outside instead, which was nice in the sun despite being about 9°C. There is a menu and a nice range of cabinet food. It's one of the few places you can buy a single scone with jam and cream, yum yum!"

"Mona Vale is a public park of 4 ha in the Christchurch suburb of Fendalton. The homestead and gate house are both listed as heritage buildings with Heritage New Zealand (NZHPT). The fernery and the rose garden, and pavilion with the setting of the park along the Avon River, add to the attractiveness of the property. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Christchurch. A visit to Christchurch is incomplete without visiting this local park. It is just across the street from Hagley park, which is another big park located in the heart of the city. The Avon river flows through the park, and it is always relaxing to just see the flow of the water, or ducks that are swimming around. I live just on the edge of these parks, so I always take advantage of this when I need some time to relax by enjoying the flowers, plants, and fresh air in the park."

"When I am nearby, I like to go there. Mona Vale is an amazing and peaceful place. Great garden and the stream makes it a little bit like a small paradise."

"One of the favourite places in the city for a quiet stroll in the gardens and enjoy some nature. It’s just perfect, not too crowded and full of quiet private spots where you can sit and read a book, or just chill down or enjoy some time with your loved one. There are some flowers areas not as much as in Botanic gardens but it’s just perfect. Try to find The Fernery a secret hideout"

"Mona Vale house was an amazing place of history to be able to visit. It has been looked after and renovated to ensure historic features are maintained. The gardens also are showing what was around when this was originally built. Amazing to walk thru and relax with coffee. A great place to visit on a sunny day"