HOUSE & GARDEN TOURS IN MARLBOROUGH
Some gardens are designed. This one was negotiated. Shaped ever since by what the land allows
One guest says pulling asparagus straight from the ground here ruined supermarket asparagus for him.
We’d call that a compliment
Orchids and ferns grow two storeys up in the canopy of mature trees. A paddock of wild grasses left entirely alone for over a hundred years, simply because someone decided not to touch it. Lemons by the bagful, vegetables pulled from the ground minutes before they reach the table.
Walk around a corner & a cloud of fragrance hits you — daphne, citrus blossom, roses, lilies — scent woven through the planting as deliberately as colour.
Rare plants sit beside common ones here with equal confidence — nothing is too ordinary to earn its place.
Two ways in. Both by arrangement
The Private Garden Tour
Stroll the garden, the homestead grounds, and the edges of the vineyard at whatever pace suits you. No itinerary, no commentary unless you want it — just time, space, and a place that rewards a closer look. A fee applies, and all visits are by prior arrangement.
ENQUIRE ABOUT A PRIVATE TOUR
The Guided House & Garden Tour
Wendy, Ross, or a member of the Welton team will walk you through Welton personally — the decisions, the failures, the half-finished experiments that turned into the garden's best ideas. This is the version for people who want the stories behind what they're looking at and a peek inside the homestead, not just the view.
ENQUIRE ABOUT A GUIDED TOUR
Bringing a group?
We’ve done this before
Welton welcomes group visits of all sizes and comfortably hosts tour parties of 50 or more, with coach access, ample parking, and toilet facilities on site. Groups can explore independently or be guided by a member of the Welton team, with morning tea, afternoon tea, or a buffet lunch arranged to suit your itinerary — a minimum of 10 applies when catering is included.
Tour operators, cruise shore excursion planners, and educational groups are warmly welcomed — get in touch with your dates and numbers and we'll work out what fits.
Most of what’s sitting on the table grew a short stroll from where you’re sitting
Morning tea, afternoon tea, or a seasonal lunch can be added to any visit — made largely from what the garden and farm are producing that week. Generous, unfussy, and tasting unmistakably of this place.
Before you go, there’s a small shop worth lingering in
Local pottery, cards, and a shelf of 100% New Zealand-made finds sit alongside copies of the books Welton has appeared in — the kind of keepsake that's actually worth packing home. Open to visitors during tours, by arrangement.
There’s no wrong time.
Only a different garden
In spring, the Secret Garden erupts with dendrobium orchids high in the kōwhai and the Dry Garden ignites with hot pink ixias, tangerine sparaxis and the peacock-blue flowers of puya. Summer brings the Big Border to full height, asparagus and vegetables pulling from the kitchen garden, and old roses threading through towering lilies in Cardinal's Corner.
And when autumn arrives, Welton really sets the table.
Figs, persimmons, feijoas, medlars, the first citrus coming in, and the vineyard at its most abundant. And through all of it — the scent shifts, the light changes, and something you missed last time catches your eye.
Every season brings a reason to visit. And no two visits are ever quite the same.
FAQs
Where is Welton House located?
Welton House is located 10 Staces Road in Grovetown — just 5 minutes from Blenheim and 20 from the Picton Ferry and Marlborough Sounds.
Is Welton House open to the public?
Welton House is Wendy's home, a private garden, and a working farm and vineyard. All visits are by prior arrangement and a fee applies. The Private Garden Tour covers the garden, grounds, and vineyard edges; only the Guided House & Garden Tour includes access inside the homestead itself.
How long should I allow for a visit to Welton House?
An hour to an hour and a half is typical — a little longer for the Guided Tour. There's no need to rush off either way; stay as long as you like.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes — all visits are by prior arrangement. For safety, we ask you not to arrive without confirming first, as there isn't always someone on site.
Is there a minimum number of people for coach or group visits?
There's no minimum group size — though if catering is included, we ask for a minimum of 10 guests, or the equivalent cost. Get in touch with your numbers and we'll work out what suits.
Is there parking for coaches & larger groups?
Yes — ample on-site parking is available, including for coaches. Let us know your group size in advance so we can plan accordingly.
Is the garden wheelchair or walker accessible?
Parts of the garden are accessible, though paths vary in surface. Please get in touch to discuss your specific needs before booking.
Can I bring my dog?
By request. Welton House is a working farm, so let us know in advance if you’d like to bring your dog and we’ll work out timing and access together.
Can I take photos?
Personal photos are always welcome. Commercial photography or filming at Welton House requires prior agreement.
Can I add catering to a tour?
Yes — seasonal, homemade catering can be arranged with advance notice, from a simple tea to a full afternoon spread. Groups of 10 or more are welcome; smaller groups are catered for at the equivalent cost. Typical dietary requirements are easily accommodated.
What happens if it’s raining?
Tours go ahead in most weather — bring something waterproof. In the case of genuinely severe weather, we'll be in touch to discuss rescheduling.
