Photography by Jessica Weale
When I drove down the tree-lined drive at Lavender Hill, I didn’t quite know what I’d find. Rows of purple blooms, shady olive trees and the sound of wind sighing through leaves. All of this was surely there, but what I didn’t expect to find was such a story of dedication, love and thoughtful design.
Owner Trish meets me at the top of the drive with a friendly smile and I felt so welcome from the moment I arrived. She showed me around the accommodation, which was incredibly homely and spacious with luxurious bed linen and all the comforts you could ever need.
Once I had settled in, she took me on a tour of the farm. It was the perfect mid-afternoon stroll with the sun making everything on the property glow and come to life. Trish is genuine and engaging, sharing heartfelt stories about her family and life on the farm. One of her fondest memories is of her mother’s reaction when they purchased the property – she was thrilled and exclaimed that she would now have access to a ‘lifetime supply of lavender.’
It was nine years ago when Trish and Jason bought their dream property. She shares that it wasn’t an easy feat, but after a few offers and attempts at purchasing the land in Riverhead, Auckland, they finally succeeded in getting the perfect spot to start their very own bed and breakfast.
The early years were spent learning everything they could about lavender, and now, as I stand among the blooming fields, it’s clear they’ve mastered the art. From the large Spanish sprigs to French ‘grosso’ and Pacific Blue, also known as ‘True Lavender’, Lavender Hill is alive and flourishing in all shades of purple and green. The lively buzz of bees and healthy flora is proof of the duo’s hard work and care for the land.
As we continue the tour, Trish encourages me to pick sprigs from the various lavender varieties. It’s incredible – not only how floral, fresh and delicate they smell, but also how distinct each one is. For me, the scents often evoke childhood memories of adventuring outdoors with my sister or cousins. I love how smells can transport us like that.
As an animal lover, I also enjoyed seeing the alpacas roaming around. There are plenty of spots to sit under the lemon trees and take in the idyllic farm, with birds and bees fluttering by.
The lavender, lemon and olive farm is organic, spray-free and sustainable, running on solar power and rainwater. Trish and Jason are also part of the New Zealand Lavender Growers Association which has expanded their knowledge and ensured the quality of Lavender Hill’s products, such as their pure Lavender Oils, meticulously hand-picked and steam-distilled right on the farm.
In the distillery, Trish demonstrates how lavender oil is made using the steam still. It’s fascinating to see how the process transforms lavender from the farm into such a lush product, all within the same space. About two years ago, Trish and Jason expanded their offerings by venturing into gin production. They now craft their gin in a new commercial 150-litre still, affectionately named ‘Little Lottie.’
Little Lottie, named after a lavender plant, is not just any still; it’s a masterpiece of quality, precision, innovation and sustainable operations. Little Lottie runs on renewable solar power and uses pure rainwater harvested from the farm. This dedication to best practices ensures that every drop of gin is as pure and sustainable as it is delicious.
The duo’s commitment to crafting exceptional gin extends beyond their equipment and sustainable practices. They take pride in using key botanicals and ingredients sourced right from the farm to infuse every bottle of gin with the essence of Lavender Hill. I sampled a few different flavours, and I must say, there is something unique and truly exceptional about it.
Lavender Hill’s limoncello, one of the first creations by Trish and Jason on their property, is available for purchase in the farm shop or online. Bursting with bright, citrusy flavours from hand-picked, spray-free lemons, this refreshing nectar is a true delight. After a sunny walk around the farm, I savoured a sip of this vibrant drink while taking in the lush, picturesque view.
Later, back in the accommodation, I sit and watch the sun set over the olive trees, spotting bunnies quietly hopping through the garden. I pick up one of the lavender sprigs I plucked earlier in the day, breathe in its calming aroma, and reflect on just how special this place truly is.
To book a stay or learn more, visit Lavender Hill.
