DETAILS

FULL LENGTH TOUR DESCRIPTION
Wellington is the capital city of New Zealand, home to Parliament and the central hub for government and many financial institutions.

Departing from the pier today you will head north out of Wellington to ‘Efil Doog’ Gardens.  This strange name in fact means ‘Good Life’ spelt backwards and the founding members Ernest and Shirley Cosgrove and their family will meet you on arrival.  Ernest and Shirley are not only member of the New Zealand Garden Trust, and the New Zealand Horticultural Institute, but they are also members of the New Zealand Bonsai Association and the garden recently featured in the prestigious New Zealand House and Garden magazine.

‘Efil Doog’ Garden is classified as one of New Zealand’s most fascinating gardens, located near the Akatarawa Valley – Hanging Vines in the Maori language.  The Garden covers 11 acres of mature gardens surrounded by river and bush clad hills.  You will be invited to join Ernest and Shirley to explore the crevasses of this unique garden, including features such as a bonsai house, perennial borders, tranquil ponds and spectacular magnolias and azaleas to name but a few. 

Also at the garden is an onsite Art Gallery where you will be able to see early New Zealand paintings and modern sculptures, an unusual display of a Bodgers Hovel and a pole lathe – an old fashioned way of making antique chairs.  You will end your visit to ‘Efil Doog’ with some refreshments in the company of your hosts before returning to Wellington for lunch.

Back in the city, located on the spectacular Wellington Harbour, you will have an exclusive opportunity to meet with renowned chef Martin Bosley at his Yacht Club Restaurant.  The restaurant offers a fantastic waterfront location, panoramic views of Wellington and the harbour, excellent service and stunning cuisine to match.  Martin is the 2006 winner of the New Zealand’s Edible Art Award.  He prides himself on his unique approach to presenting his meals in myriad ways, from an all-round creative menu.  You will discover new delights as Martin’s passion for the plate is not only pleasing on the palate but a delight on the eye.

You will join Martin for a 3-course lunch before continuing with an overview of Wellington city including a drive to Mt Victoria for spectacular views before returning to your ship.
 
SHORT LENGTH TOUR DESCRIPTION
Head north out of Wellington to ‘Efil Doog’ Gardens.  On arrival, you will be greeted by the founding members who will show you the crevasses of this unique garden, including features such as a bonsai house, perennial borders, tranquil ponds and spectacular magnolias and azaleas to name but a few. Also visit the onsite Art Gallery where you will be able to see early New Zealand paintings and modern sculptures. Back in the city, located on the spectacular Wellington Harbour, you will have an exclusive opportunity to meet with renowned chef Martin Bosley at his Yacht Club Restaurant. Martin is the 2006 winner of the New Zealand’s Edible Art Award and prides himself on his unique approach to presenting his meals in myriad ways, from an all-round creative menu. Discover new delights as Martin’s passion for the plate is not only pleasing on the palate but a delight on the eye. You will join Martin for a 3-course lunch before continuing with an overview of Wellington city including a drive to Mt Victoria for spectacular views before returning to your ship.

TIMING BREAKDOWN
00:00     Depart the pier for transfer to Efil Doog
00:45     Visit Efil Doog to see the gardens with Ernest and Shirley Cosgrove with morning refreshments
03:00     Meet Martin Bosley at the Yacht Club Restaurant for Edible Art talk and a gourmet lunch
06:00    End tour back at the pier

Approximate Duration: 6 Hours

OPERATIONAL NOTES
- Tour includes coach transfers, driver and guide, guided visit with morning refreshments at Efil Doog, 3-course lunch with glass of wine at Yacht Club Restaurant
- Activity level – Moderate

 

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