A Timeless Restoration

Hosts: Jude Flintoft & Stephen Smith

Address: 31 Lyndon Road, Waiau

Directions: Exit Waiau Bridge onto Lyndon Street, then third left onto Leslie Street. Continue through the township to River Road on the left. About two kilometres, turn right on Lyndon Road, through a dip in the road, across a bridge, and turn left at the red letterbox. A long shingle drive leads to the homestead.

Lyndon Homestead, circa 1880, started as a smaller home. By the early 1900s, a billiards wing, nursery, and two reception rooms completed its footprint of 750 square metres.

Stephen Smith and Jude Flintoft purchased the 12-acre property, down from 70,000 in Lyndon's heyday, in late 2018, after the 2016 earthquake.

Their emphasis is on the restoration of the house rather than renovation, honouring the craftsmanship of the original builders, achieving elaborate details with hand tools only.

Garden design was by Alfred Buxton; trees and contours are the only remnants now. Rupert Tipples published a book in 1989, 'Colonial Landscape Gardener,' about Alfred's extensive work and designs throughout New Zealand, with a 1926 photo of Lyndon on the cover.

Complimentary tea/coffee is provided throughout the day. A selection of food (baking, savory, and rolls) is offered for purchase. Also, this season's walnuts, both halved and unshelled, will be available to buy.

Steve and Jude welcome visitors to explore the house and grounds. As Lyndon is still a work in progress, please be mindful of any hazards.