Lyndon Homestead

Lyndon Homestead, circa 1880, started as a smaller home. By the early 1900’s a billiards wing, nursery and two reception rooms completed its footprint of 750 square metres. Stephen Smith and Jude Flintoft purchased the 12-acre property, down from 70,000 in Lyndon’s heyday, in late 2018, after the 2016 earthquake. Their emphasis is on restoration of the house rather than renovation, in honouring the craftmanship of original builders, achieving details with hand tools only. The garden design was by Alfred Buxton, with trees and contours the only remanent now. Rupert Tipples published a book in 1989, “Colonial Landscape Gardener,” about Alfred’s extensive work and designs throughout New Zealand with a 1926 photo of Lyndon on the cover. Clare Gleeson has a newly published book, “The Fairer Side of Buxton,” an extensive list of Buxton’s gardens included. Copies will be available for sale at Lyndon on the 3rd of November, and Clare along with Alfred’s grandson Andrew Buxton will be in attendance between 1pm and 3pm for a Q& A session.

Steve and Jude welcome visitors to explore the house and grounds. As Lyndon is still a work in progress, please be mindful of any hazards.