Culverden: Gardens, Golf and History

Culverden offers several reasons to stay: the history of the Amuri region, gardens with varied features, and a 9-hole golf course with mountain views. Nearby, the historic Hurunui Hotel adds another perspective on regional history. More nature and cultural destinations can be found throughout the wider Hurunui District.

Culverden’s history and regional role

Culverden was founded after the railway arrived in 1886. The town then developed into a railway, coaching and agricultural centre for the Amuri region. This sequence highlights two stages in the town’s history: the railway marks its founding, while its later role as a centre also encompassed coach travel and agriculture. For travellers interested in the town’s development, this connects a specific year with its broader role in the region.

Gardens in Culverden and Hemingford

The garden at The Top Cottage in Culverden features ponds, lawns, garden beds, a courtyard, a pool and raised vegetable gardens. Sculptures by the couple can be found throughout the garden. If visiting as part of the 2026 garden festival, you can explore the grounds and visit the studio; seasonal access may vary. The Top Cottage also offers seasonal workshops, which may not always be available.

Coldstream is a one-hectare garden with interconnected lawns and paths. Its large beds contain established roses, camellias and rhododendrons. Extensive plantings of daffodils, tulips and peonies bring spring colour. Both the layout of the garden paths and the planting are defining features of Coldstream.

In Hemingford stands a house designed by Cecil Wood and built in 1952. Also in Hemingford is Lissa’s studio, set in a flower-filled border. From there, you can look across green farmland to the Lowry Range. By comparison, each place has a distinct focus: Coldstream is defined by its size, paths and established plants; Hemingford by its architecture and landscape views; and The Top Cottage by its varied garden areas and seasonal visits.

Golf and historic sites nearby

Culverden’s 9-hole golf course offers attractive mountain views. Golf therefore provides a different focus from the gardens: here, the emphasis is on the clearly defined course and the mountain scenery.

The historic Hurunui Hotel is outside Culverden, nearby, and is considered a classic North Canterbury landmark. Since 1868, it has served as a resting and postal stop for drovers bringing sheep from Nelson to Christchurch for livestock sales. This connection places the hotel within the history of regional livestock transport.

More destinations in the Hurunui District

In the Hurunui District, Weka Pass Historic Reserve offers its own way to explore cultural and landscape themes. The reserve was officially established in 1969. A 40-minute track leads to a large limestone overhang featuring examples of early Māori rock art. Access to the rock art begins at the Waikari Village Walkway; track entrances are at the Star and Garter Hotel on SH7 or from Waikari. The walkway’s seasonal lambing closure runs from 1 August to 1 October.

The Woodlands Walk at the entrance to Hanmer Forest Park offers a different focus. This short, family-friendly loop track passes through forest and meadows, as well as stands of Douglas fir, poplars and redwoods. While the limestone overhang and rock art define the Weka Pass track, the Woodlands Walk focuses on forest and meadow scenery.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Waipara, Southburn, Arthur's Pass, Governors Bay, West Melton, Springfield, Ferniehurst, Waiau.

For the wider travel overview: Canterbury.