South Eyre Sunflowers – Sunflower garden in Christchurch

Sunflower gardens have always been a favourite destination for those who love to visit amazing places and those who are interested in photography. Thousands of sunflowers in full bloom, facing towards the sun, are amazing scenery. Not all places in the world are great locations for sunflower farming. The sunflowers should be raised at an optimal temperature between 21 °C and 26°C, and then only the flowers can survive.

Since New Zealand’s temperature falls below this optimal level during the winter months, sunflower gardens are unlikely to be seen throughout the year. However, there are some sunflower gardens in both the North and South Islands where you can access them during the summer season to take pictures and hand-pick for your needs.

One such Sunflower garden in Canterbury is the South Eyre Sunflower Farm, located at Swannanoa.

South Eyre Sunflower Farm in Christchurch – South Island NZ

Whether you are living in Christchurch or travelling to Christchurch as part of your vacation, one of the must-see destinations is the South Eyre Sunflower Garden. Located about a 45-minute drive north of Christchurch City, South Eyre Sunflower Garden offers an amazing display of sunflowers during the summer months.

Kerry McCorry and Scott Evans are the generous souls behind this 3-hectare paddock which was initially opened to the public back in 2023. They have raised over $15000 in 2023 for charity through the honesty box placed in front of the farm. Those who are visiting the farm can support the fundraising either by putting some cash in the honesty box or by directly transferring it to the bank account.

Some useful information while visiting the farm.

You can pay the entrance fee by either using the honesty box or through bank transfer.
Adult fees are $5, and children under 12 are free. $3 per flower if taken home.
Hand cutters will be available on the farm but visitors are encouraged to BYO hand cutters.
The paddock is located on the corner of South Eyre Road and Domain Road. Plenty of on-road parking is also available.
Please try to keep the place clean by taking your rubbish home.

How to reach South Eyre Sunflower Farm from Christchurch?

This farm is located about 25 KM from the city centre and therefore no public transport options are available. The following are the possible options you can use to visit this stunning location.

Private Vehicle:- If you live in Christchurch, you probably own a car. In that case, simply make a drive to the location. No prior bookings are required.
Uber:- You will get an Uber from Christchurch to Swannanoa but you will not find one, and vice versa. So if you are considering this option, talk to your driver and ask whether he can wait and bring you back. This option will cost somewhere around $100 in total.
Taxi: This will be the most reliable option for those who don’t have a private vehicle, but it is also the most expensive option. Booking a taxi to this farm from Christchurch, including a waiting charge, will cost about $200.

South Eyre Sunflower Farm – A Brief Information

Category	Details
Farm Name	South Eyre Sunflower Farm
Location	3719 South Eyre Road, Oxford 7495
Best Visiting Season	Summer (January to March), when sunflowers are in full bloom
Appointment	No Appointment or booking needed
Opening Hours	Typically opens during summer bloom season; hours vary, so check ahead
Admission Fee	Honesty Box and Bank Transfer
Activities	– Walking paths through sunflower fields
	– Photography opportunities
	– Colab with a professional photographer.
Photography	It is allowed for personal use. Professional shoots may require prior permission
Facilities	– Parking available
	– No Toilet Facility
	– Icecream Truck
Contact Information	Check Facebook & Instagram for the latest updates and news.
Nearby Attractions	– Local cafes and shops
	– Other farms and scenic countryside
	– Southern Alps scenery
Additional Notes	– Apply Sunscreen
	– Bring water and snacks
	– Follow farm rules and respect flowers