Orchard Gardens in its idyllic setting between Clyde and Alexandra boasts the largest hedge maze in the South Island combined with extensive English style gardens.

Owners Frances and Bryan Raymond say the almost four-hectare property has provided the backdrop for more than 500 wedding ceremonies and is a popular stop over for cyclists on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

The couple are hospitality experts with more than 20 years’ collective experience including owning the well-known Good Oil Café in Dunedin.

“When the opportunity to purchase the Orchard Garden emerged around three years ago we decided to explore it further,” says Frances. “We had been living near Orchard Garden for more than eight years and had always admired its stunning vistas and location.”

“Our inspiration has been to build upon the original vision of the property to maintain and nurture the gardens. After purchasing it we closed to the public for two years to learn how to look after the venue and make adjustments to some of the gardens and the main entrance.”

“There are three distinct indoor spaces – the café, large function room and a private room known as the Tractor Room with each embodying its own rustic character. The Tractor Room opens out onto a secluded garden and is excellent for smaller functions while the café features the original mud brick walls of the former packing shed built on site by the original owner.”

“On hot summer days, guests can relax outside the café under the shade of a tree or a sun umbrella. There’s plenty of space to take time out, play a variety of lawn games and choose from a selection of drinks and gourmet cabinet food,” says Frances. “Guests can take a peaceful stroll and scope out aviaries, the maze and various smaller gardens.”

 Orchard Gardens has the capacity to host a wide range of events such as weddings, conferences, funerals and birthday celebrations and has a team of experienced in-house caterers providing bespoke options to suit all occasions.

The Orchard Garden café is open Wednesday until Sunday from 9.00am to 3.00pm.