Built in 1915 by the Tizzard family, The Olive
Grove is a fine example of a traditional New
Zealand bay villa.
During the early and mid 20th century, the
property operated as a dairy and cheese factory.
Remnants of the old cow sheds and milk churns
are evident as you stroll around the grounds.
The house was fully restored in 2004, when
the second floor was added and the garden was
re-landscaped. All restoration aimed to complement
the existing charm of the house, introducing
modern day comforts whilst retaining the numerous
original features and overall character of the
property.
Of particular note are the ornate pressed zinc
ceilings, a feature seen in many bay villas
throughout New Zealand, but not seen in any
other property on the Banks Peninsula.
The garden is full of rhododendrons, camellias
and fragrant climbers and herbs. We use fruit
and vegetables from our own kitchen garden to
prepare breakfast, and all our cooking uses
the high quality extra virgin olive oil grown
on the property.
