RUSTIC REVIVAL
WORDS Joshua Brosnahan PHOTOS Katy Rolleston
Half native bush and half farm, Children’s Bay Park has been home to the Rolleston family for almost fifteen years and is a passion project set to benefit the many generations to come. And best of all, you and your family are more than welcome to visit.
James Rolleston describes this as a ‘multi-generational project’ that involves the current three generations of the family. Over the years, the whānau and many valued locals have managed to plant a whopping 20,000 native plants – all endemic to Banks Peninsula.
“We have also chipped away over the last 14 years to re-fence the native gullies, plant a large range of native plants, trap pests, and carefully cut several free walking tracks that link the Takamatua and Akaroa communities together, and now enable people to walk right around the headland of the park on a three-hour walk.”
The project is far from finished; there are further areas marked for wetlands and planting in the near future.
Sculptures of various animals are dotted around the walks – a crocodile, giraffe, and rhino (thus the name of the Rhino Track) as well as a moa, sheep, and a pig.
These all create unique talking points and a bit of fun for the kids. It’s all in the name of encouraging families to get out and explore the park.
Alongside this ambitious conservation project is the farm, running a small high- quality herd of Angus cattle that graze the grass faces and ridges. The farm manager has an integral role in helping maintain the tracks as well.
Part of the progression means the birth of The Woolshed – a farmstay, rustically restored for guests and various events. It sits just above Children’s Bay, with incredible views back across the harbour.
James feels the Woolshed has evolved into a ‘cool little farm stay’.
“There is a mezzanine level with a king-size bed and two singles. There’s an open fire,
Sky TV for when the rugby is on, and a great outdoor area with BBQ, large outdoor fire, and plenty of seating.”
The renovation included large traditional timber beams from an earthquake-damaged building in Christchurch and former bricks from the Rolleston family home. The current site offered up useful materials with old iron from the hayshed being used to line the shower, around the fireplaces, and in the living area.
“As a family, we are constantly working on enhancing the experience within the park for our local communities and visitors. All proceeds made go back into maintaining the free walks we have created, the pest control, and planting of native plants within Children’s Bay Park.”
The Rolleston family clearly share a passion for living in Banks Peninsula.
“The harbour can be rugged, moody, and wild but also so still and stunning. The township is quaint and diverse and one of only several true villages in New Zealand. We encourage Kiwis to come on over and explore the area.”
