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 Ivy Cottage and the Enchanted Garden was originally named Omahanui Gardens - one of Auckland’s first privately owned public gardens.
The gardens were developed approx 30 years ago by the famous rose specialists, Toni and Ron Sylvester (clothing designer Kate Sylvester's parents). At the time the gardens set the scene for the garden tour industry, attracting many coach-loads of visitors and also featuring in magazines and on several occasions on the Garden Show.
The cottage itself was originally named Ivy Cottage and was built for Toni Sylvester’s mother - who lived here and set up a pottery studio inside.
The owners of Omahanui Gardens changed over the years, until Childrens Theme Parties Ltd was created in 2000 by Robyn Cunliffe. Her vision was to create a unique, safe environment for children, their families and friends and bring nature to the forefront of childrens’ imaginations.
Lisa Ritchie purchased Children’s Theme Parties Ltd (Ivy Cottage) in 2003 and extended the business to also include the opportunity for people to visit or hire Ivy Cottage and experience the fairy garden and cute cottage.
 Although most of the gardens have now vanished due to the previous owners subdividing the property, we continue to share approx 1/4 acre of the well-established “Brazen Garden” (Enchanted Garden).
Approximately 2,000 children visit Ivy Cottage every year and experience the wonderful surroundings.
The fact that the gardens have always been shared with others, and also that a 110+ year old oak tree grows in the centre of the garden, explains the magical and enchanting atmosphere.
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