Meet the People - 31

Another in the Series Meet the People – Ordinary and Extraordinary New Zealanders Doing Interesting Things – James and Glenice White live in the very gorgeous and historic, Birch Hill homestead, which nestles into the foothills of Mt Thomas, in North Canterbury. Designed by architect, Samuel Hurst Seager and built in 1908, it sits in acres of sweeping lawns and gardens, making it a perfect retreat – which is why the Whites are starting a new venture – the Birch Hill Art Retreat. Starting in March 2009 with an exclusive 10-day painting and sculpture retreat, with accommodation provided at both Birch Hill and nearby Okuku Country Estate (which I featured here earlier this year), the workshops will be run in the new art studio James has built on the site of the homestead’s original blacksmith’s workshop. Well known UK artist, Vince Tutton and South Canterbury artists, Eddie Cook and Judeen McFetrich will tutor the classes and share their experiences of workshops in Spain, Italy and France. James and Glenice also plan to host a series of two-day introductory sculpture and painting courses with lunch provided. As art collectors themselves, the Whites are keen to encourage others and to share the beauty of their historic country property. www.birchhill.co.nz For others in this series, click on Meet the People in the label line below this post.

Homestead History

I gave in to my passion for grand old mansions again yesterday and visited Okuku Country Estate, which is tucked into a tight fist of huge trees – including two massive redwoods – 30 minutes from the country town of Rangiora. Much has changed in the fifteen years since I last visited; for a start, there are new owners – Robert and Lorraine Smith – who have turned it into a gorgeous retreat for visiting guests. And what an idyllic hideaway. Built in 1920 (after the original 1860 homestead burnt down in 1917) and inspired by Italian Renaissance style, it oozes character and ‘friendliness.’ Dark downstairs panelling, a huge entry hall, big social spaces, six big guest bedrooms, an indoor swimming pool and 30 acres of beautiful gardens to wander in make it a very tempting weekend getaway. Back in the old days the Ensor family lived a grand old life hosting parties and hunts – with the aid of Chinese servants, who lived in the west wing of the house. It’s one of those lovely old places that seems to have sealed its history into every corner; it’s almost tangible. Gorgeous! www.okukucountryestate.co.nz