Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Hemsworth Estate?
Hemsworth Estate is located at 356 Beach Roast East, Ashburton. We’re less than 10 minutes drive from the centre of town, and one hour south of Christchurch. You can see our Google Maps listing here.
When are you open?
We’re open most Fridays from 2:00-4:00pm for Afternoon Tea, and by appointment for site visits and enquiries throughout the week. You can also see our upcoming events, and availability for Bed and Breakfast bookings via our website.
What Parking Options do you have?
If you’re booked booked to stay the night, have low mobility, or coming for a site visit, please drive in our main entrance and park in front of reception, or continue around the homestead to the grass parking area by our Potager Garden.
Please note: the gate will most likely be closed as we do have a dog, and livestock onsite.
If you’re attending an event, we will have our carpark open, and signs out guiding the way (this is approximately 20m from the main entrance and has a direct route across the lawn to the Homestead).
Do you cater to Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Vegetarians or Vegans?
Yes we can cater to most dietary requirements with advance notice. Please call to confirm we can cater to your requests. Please note, we do not have a separate facility for Gluten Free food preparation and cannot guarantee cross-contamination will not occur.
I have Mobility Needs. Can you cater for them?
The nature of Hemsworth Estate’s 1911 Historic Homestead setting is the building does not cater to modern standards. There are four shallow steps with no handrail to the main entrance of the building. Each persons needs are unique so we ask you give us a call to discuss your requirements and see how we can meet them. Only our outdoor summer events are wheelchair accessible but we do cater to low mobility year round.
Where will we be seated for a High Tea?
We have a wide variety of unique options at our historic homestead, including the Dining Room, Drawing Room, Morning Room, Sunroom and occasionally the Guinness Room. Each of these rooms have a variety of dining table and chair, window seat, settee, and armchair options. If you require a particular type of seat, or a high chair, please do give us a call to confirm we can meet your needs.
Are children welcome?
Yes! Children are most welcome at Hemsworth Estate unless our event description states the event is R18. For our High Teas, children will be presented with their own child-friendly cup and saucer. If necessary, we can cater the food requirements as well upon request.
What kind of Private Events do you do?
Each private event we host is custom to the occasion and client. We offer private Afternoon and High Teas, Tour Groups, Work Functions, End-of-Year Christmas events, Birthday and Special Occasion Milestones like Anniversaries, Engagements and Baby-showers and we love a good theme. Enquire today about what we can provide for your next celebration.
Can my dog come?
Service dogs are always welcome and we are planning events in future where your fur-baby can come. Please stay tuned on our social media and newsletter for announcements of when your dog can come to visit Hemsworth Estate.
I'm not sure of Hemsworth Estate will work for my event, can I visit?
Yes, we would love to invite you to Hemsworth Estate for a complimentary site visit for any event you’re planning subject to our availability. Please contact us to book.
Is your question not answered here? We would be happy to answer it. Please contact us.