Karetu Downs
1731 Ram Paddock Road, Waipara Gorge
Park-like and enchanting
Karetu Downs homestead sits proudly above a large sweeping lawn surrounded by trees, camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas and roses. Tulips and pittosporum pom poms mark the garden entrance.
Trees like golden elm, dogwoods, magnolia, and Oak provide structure. Lavender edges the rock wall separating the upper terrace from the lawn. Paths lead to a native woodland area with Kereru, Bellbird, Fantail, Quail, and other birds. The orchard has peach-nectarine, quince, pear, apple, plum, and walnut trees
The olive grove features Olea europaea Chemlali. Pergolas are covered in wisteria, clematis, and roses. Karetu is a gardeners delight where peace and tranquillity reign.
EVENTS
Michael Wells Sculptures: Stunning designs made from Corten and Mild Steel. Available to purchase. When: daily.
Karetu Downs Gift shop: Plants, preserves, gardening products and giftware. From garden gloves to art prints and beautiful homewares. When: daily.
JB Catering: Delicious food, tea, and coffee available to purchase. When: Daily 10am -2pm.
Fossil and Concretion tour: Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th October. For bookings see below.
Karetu Downs Fossil and Concretion tour
Very few places in the world have fossils carbon dated sixty million years old as in the Waipara Gorge. A 40-minute guided tour downstream on flat land to the junction of the north/south branches of the Waipara river, is where these magnificent concretions are. Dr Kate Pedley will talk about how these ancient concretions are formed and share insights about fossils and geological history of the area.
Karetu Downs is privately owned, and there is no Queens Chain on this part of the Waipara river. Please be mindful of the unique opportunity to explore this special place. Good walking shoes essential. Uneven terrain.
“Take nothing, leave only footprints.”
Tours:
Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th October starting 12:30pm.
Garden entry, lunch, and tour: $45 per person
Garden entry and tour: $25 per person
Bookings are essential.
On-site/off-road parking available
Toilets available on site
Tea/coffee available for purchase
Refreshments available for purchase
Picnic area (visitors may bring food)
Dogs allowed
Accommodation available
Garden opens at other times
Plants/produce stalls
Motorhomes welcome overnightFacilities: