The Rusty Acre
★★★★
The Rusty Acre is home to Sculptor, Allan O'Loughlin and his partner Andrea. It is situated 25mins north of Christchurch in a settlement called Mandeville.
Established from a bare paddock in 1993, this garden has become an outdoor gallery to the most incredible collection of steel sculptures with over 70 scattered throughout this two-acre garden. From a fairy climbing a tree, a women stooping to pick a flower and a man cycling by on his penny farthing, there is something of interest for everyone.
Walkways lead you on a visual feast, in and out of garden rooms, around 2 ponds, past a vegetable and herb garden and an orchard. Plantings include rhododendron, camellia, cornus, specialty trees with underplantings, climbers, roses, hostas, perennials and more.
A large table setting under a massive steel candelabra seats eight. Stop for a rest, listen to the birds, enjoy the tranquility. Bring a picnic.
As you step into our world of whimsy you won't want to miss Andrea's home décor gift shop; a gorgeous space full of special pieces to cherish, from jewellery, scarfs, soaps with French inspired home items, mirrors, vases and ornaments. It is a treasure trove of old and new, including furniture restyled by Andrea. Nearby is Allan's workshop where you may find him creating. He is always happy to stop and show his visitors his latest works.
We regularly host high teas, set amongst the sculptures on the lawn or under the trees .Our tables are beautifully decorated, setting a magical scene. For details see our facebook page (@therustyacre). Tickets are also available in Andrea's shop.
Facilities and Amenities
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Open from late October to mid-April:
Friday, Saturday, Sunday open 10am - 4pm
Monday - Thursday open by appointment
Recommended duration of visit: 1 - 1.5 hours
Adults $10
Children free
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Take the motorway north on State Highway 1. Take the first turn off just over the Waimakariri bridge towards Oxford on Tram Road. Travel approx 10kms until you reach McHughs Road on the left (just past the NPD service station).
Travel 700m until you reach Roscrea place on the right. The Rusty Acre is on the corner. Park on McHughs Road using the car park provided. Walk through the small steel gate in the middle of cyprus hedge to enter the garden.
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Physical Address: 1 Roscrea Place, Mandeville
Phone: 0211466426
Email: therustyacre@gmail.com
