If you're based locally or planning a trip to Christchurch, New Zealand, and have a penchant for arts and history, you absolutely can't miss out on the Ngaio Marsh House & Garden tour.
Christchurch's hidden cultural gem offers a unique insight into the life of Dame Ngaio Marsh, one of New Zealand's most iconic figures in the world of the arts.
Step into the world of Dame Ngaio Marsh at her historic residence. Picture yourself in the green chair where she penned her literary masterpieces or explore her art collection, first edition books, clothing, and travel trunks up close. This isn't merely a tour; it's a journey through time and creativity.
Dame Ngaio Marsh's house was a gathering place for a captivating array of guests, from artists and writers to rising actors and Hollywood legends. The history is as rich as the experience itself. The house was built in 1906 by an esteemed Christchurch architect and is recognised as a Category 1 Historic Place by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga due to its historic and cultural significance.
For just $20 and an hour of your time, join a small group tour on Tuesday, Saturday or Sunday with one of our knowledgable volunteer guides, and immerse yourself in the personal and unique world of Dame Ngaio Marsh.
"The house has been kept in its original condition and all the pieces of furniture, pictures and memorabilia give a great sense of how Ngaio Marsh lived her life."
A Wonderful Garden
Dame Ngaio particularly enjoyed the terraced heritage garden, which she largely designed herself.
Kiwi Gardener magazine commented: "It is like a pocket of an English countryside, changing with the seasons, with different plants standing at attention depending on the time of year."
There are wonderful views on a clear day across Christchurch to the mighty Southern Alps.
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Book your tour of Ngaio Marsh House & Garden now
For just $20 per person, enjoy one of New Zealand's most interesting historic homes and one of Christchurch's top attractions.
Tours are available on Tuesdays and Saturdays, and run for approximately 60 minutes.
Contact us if you'd like to book for more than 10 people.
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When are tours available?Currently our volunteer guides offer tours on Tuesday, Saturday and Sunday. We can sometimes accommodate private tours outside of these usual times. Please contact us to ask.
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How many people are on a tour?We run guided tours of up to 10 people only, but sometimes you might be lucky to have the tour guide to yourself for a private showing. If you have a group of more than 10 people, we welcome you to book with us directly via our Contact page.
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How much does it cost and what do you see?Our unique experience costs only NZ$20 per person for an hour-long guided tour of Ngaio Marsh's home and garden. The house boasts original furniture and personal effects, offering a genuine glimpse into Ngaio Marsh's domestic and creative life. Her personal collections including art, books, and family artefacts provide deep insights into her eclectic tastes and interests. An intimate tour of one an internationally-acclaimed cultural treasure.
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Who was Ngaio Marsh? Why should I visit her house?Hugely talented, charming and enigmatic, Ngaio Marsh is one of New Zealand’s best-known literary figures, and was for a time our most famous export across the globe. A tall woman with a deep voice and a love of designer clothes, she carried her own inimitable style, and was a familiar sight around Christchurch driving her sleek black Jaguar wrapped in a fur coat. She was a true pioneer – overcoming the barriers of her time to rise to the peak of society, and her career, as an internationally-successful independent female artist. A creative powerhouse whose influences are still felt today. Learn more about Ngaio's life here. She lived in at the house from when she was a young girl right up till her death in 1982. Her house is just as she left it and her treasured garden has been maintained by volunteers for decades. With views over Christchurch city it's a magical place to visit.
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Are there good articles about Ngaio Marsh House?Yes. We've been written about on numerous occasions by visiting journalists. For a great overview of what it's like to visit we encourage you to read these two articles: "Ngaio Marsh House is Christchurch's hidden cultural treasure" by Charlie Gates, The Press, August 2022 "Inside the home of New Zealand’s greatest crime writer" by Alex Casey, The Spinoff, April 2024
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How accessible is the property?Ngaio Marsh House is an original heritage property on a steep site with uneven and steep paths and steps. We do have some handrails and if you contact us beforehand to park on-site. Unfortunately we are not able to accommodate wheelchairs. If you would like to discuss access before your visit, let us know on the online booking form. We will do our best to accommodate you.
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Where in Christchurch is Ngaio Marsh House? How do I get there?We are located at 37 Valley Road in the Christchurch suburb of Cashmere, near Cashmere Tennis Club and Zeroes cafe, approximately five kilometers from the CBD. We are a 12-14 minute taxi or rideshare from central Christchurch, and on the number 1 bus route. There is plenty of parking on Valley Road, and limited parking and drop off on site. Further travel and parking details are provided on booking.
