In the charming town of Akaroa, New Zealand, artist Josie Martin has turned an old 1880s villa, known as The Giant’s House, into a colourful and imaginative sanctuary. It is said the be the “Happiest Garden on Earth.”
The Giants House has become a part of Akaroa’s folklore, earning its name when a small child, gazing up at the imposing home from the valley below, declared it must belong to a giant, since it was so big.
The experience at The Giant’s House begins charmingly at the bottom of the hill, where a whimsically decorated mailbox sets the tone for what’s to come
From there, you follow a steep inclined path uphill toward the main house and gardens.
After moving in, Josie discovered broken pieces of china buried in the garden and began using them to create mosaics, starting with the front steps.
The first thing to see is the wide open area where the mosaic grand piano and more than life-sized figures playing instruments is one of the garden’s most iconic installations. The piano seat invites visitors to sit and become part of the artwork.
What began as a small creative project soon grew into a full-scale artistic transformation.
Over time, she filled the garden with playful sculptures and intricate mosaic work.,
NowThe Giant’s House is celebrated as a Garden of International Significance—a magical place where Josie’s love for both art and gardening comes to life.
Josie Martin, a New Zealand artist, horticulturist, and ceramicist, resides and works at The Giant’s House in Akaroa. At the top of the garden you can view her artworks in the Contemporary Art Gallery, which is open daily, with seasonal hours varying throughout the year. There is also a video about her which offers insights into her creative journey running on loop.
Around the area, there are various quirky and colourful chairs scattered throughout the garden, placed for anyone who needs a bit of a rest.
And where there are seats, there must be doors—but unfortunately, some of them were under renovation and roped off during our visit. We could only admire them from a distance, but even then, their charm still shone through.
Believe it or not, I even snapped a few photos of the toilet area—yes, even that was fascinating! Markers were thoughtfully provided so visitors could leave a note or comment on the walls, adding a fun and personal touch to the experience.
Without a doubt, this was a 10 out of 10 experience for me and my husband. Thank you, Josie, for generously sharing your incredible creativity with the world—your work is truly inspiring and unforgettable!
I am linking this to:
Dan’s Thursday Doors Challenge
Natalie’s Photographing Public Art Challenge
Xingfumama’s Pull Up a Seat Challenge
This was from my trip last April 2025.
How lovely Teresa, as you say an incredible experience. This lady is so clever. I enjoyed looking at all these photos.
A very bad time for me right now, no light at the end of the tunnel yet
Oh noooo how’s it going? Aren’t you back yet? Don’t say that… I am wishing for the best!
Yes we are back but Anthony is quite bad Healthwise ..still undergoing treatment in hospital
Will continually pray for him and for you so that things will go for the better.
Sending hugs Ali ❤️
So sorry to hear this, Ali. I had been wondering where you were. Hope Anthony’s well soon xx
I visited the giants house4 years ago and was totally captivated by it. I noticed in your photos some new art works have been added. Josie is an amazing and prolific artist
She is remarkable. She is great in everything she does and as you said, her work is continually evolving. Thanks for commenting!
A very whimsical place Teresa
I was like a child enjoying every corner of the place. Thanks Brian.
Amazing place and artistry, Teresa! xx
Such an amazing artist, indeed. Thanks Jo.
Crazy and fascinating.
Spot-on description, Scooj!
Wow these are really stunning! The colours of the mosaic are exquisite.
Thanks, I think so too.
A fabulous place created by an obviously very talented artist. I would love to visit but if I ever did you would never get me out of there 😊
Haha true. That was what happened to us. Thanks for commenting Eunice.
What an amazing place, Teresa. I love installations like that, but I’ve never been to something so extensive. Thanks for taking us along.
I just saw the place online, but being there in real life is truly magical. Thanks Dan.
Absolutely outstanding! I enjoyed the magical tour and remarkable sculpture and outdoor vibrancy in your great photos, Teresa. Really enjoyed your share.
Loved the piano!
Thanks Suzette. The place is really whimsical, magnificent magical all at the same time.
Awesome!
What a great find and a magical place, Teresa. The mosaics are all beautiful. Thank you for your public art share.
Such artistry, I was in awe. Glad you enjoyed my share, Natalie.
Oh, this is great fun! I love these sort of passion projects 😀
And I think she is still adding on to her collection. It was so great to see. Thanks Sarah.
This playful garden is gorgeous. This is a vision that comes to life. A truly happy place no doubt. Thanks for sharing with us.
Glad to share it with you. Thanks for the visit.
Oh what creative fun!
Yes it is, thanks Margaret.
How wonderfully magical! The sculptures remind me of Niki St. de Phalle’s work!
Oh yes it does…and Gaudi’s.
Such a happy place with so much to look at! Simply wonderful. 😊
Thanks, glad you liked it Pepper.
Amazing!
Definitely amazing. Thanks Coral.
Looks like a really fun place to explore.
I really enjoyed the place. Thanks for your comment Mama.