FERNSIDE
A Century of
Landscape and Legacy
Fernside began as the country retreat of the pioneering Elgar family, who transformed a modest holding into one of the Wairarapa's leading estates. After fire destroyed the original house, they commissioned architect Heathcote Helmore to design a new Neo‑Georgian homestead, completed in 1924 and hailed as one of New Zealand's most modern country houses, complete with the nation's first private lift. Later the official residence of the United States Ambassador to New Zealand, Fernside is now cherished for its layered history and distinctive Arts and Crafts gardens, where formal design, mature trees, and reflective water create a uniquely historic landscape.
Garden Highlights
The gardens combine formal and informal design: structured beds and strong axial vistas are balanced by open lawns, mature specimen trees, and romantic water features. Paths lead through secluded garden rooms to the lake, where bridges, plantings, and reflections create a distinctive, almost otherworldly atmosphere. This lakeside setting, along with the broader landscape, has contributed to Fernside's recognition as both a place of heritage value and a notable film location connected with the Lord of the Rings series.
Lakeside Walks
Gentle paths beside the water, perfect for quiet reflection and admiration of the water lilies.
Secret Garden
Walk through living tunnels of greenery leading to our classic stone fountain features.
Enchanted Woods
Ancient trees create a natural cathedral, with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy over a serene lawn.
Sunken Garden
A vibrant collection of golden blooms and foliage that lights up the landscape throughout the seasons.
A Cinematic Garden
Landmark
Step into one of New Zealand's most atmospheric garden landscapes. Fernside's lake, framed by ancient trees and the white bridge, is renowned for its still reflections and otherworldly calm.
Peter Jackson used this setting in the opening of The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, where Sméagol and Déagol are fishing when the One Ring is found. The lake also appears as part of the Silverlode River in Lothlórien.
Visitors today see the same mirrored water, foliage, and bridge that secure Fernside's place in New Zealand garden history and on screen.
"The world is changed..."
Stay at Fernside
Extend your visit with a night in the 1924 Neo-Georgian manor. Choose from two heritage king rooms, set within twelve acres of Wairarapa gardens, woodland and the famous reflecting lake.
The Ambassador Room
The grandest of Fernside's two heritage bedrooms, once the official residence of the United States Ambassador to New Zealand, with antique furnishings and a white marble fireplace.
The Private Quarters
The most private of Fernside's bedrooms, a light-filled super king set within the 1924 Neo-Georgian manor. Dressed in soft heritage florals, with a deep upholstered headboard, antique furnishings and a writing desk beneath tall sash windows, it looks out over the formal gardens and mature specimen trees. A secluded, elegant base from which to explore twelve acres of Arts and Crafts gardens, woodland walks and the reflecting lake made famous in The Lord of the Rings.
Inside Fernside
Step inside the 1924 Neo-Georgian manor and wander its rooms, halls and details. Select any photograph to view it in full.