Ilam Homestead, a venue where many scenes from Peter Jackson’s early film Heavenly Creatures were filmed, has been nominated for The New Zealand Commercial Project Awards to be announced in May.
Ilam Homestead has long been associated with famous names of early Canterbury. Its close ties with the University of Canterbury ensures that it continues that sense of history and service.
lam is named for Ilam Hall in Staffordshire, England, the birthplace of John Watts-Russell (1826-1875). He came to Canterbury in 1850 on theSir George Seymour, one of the first four immigrant ships of the Canterbury Association. A wealthy man, he purchased 500 acres at Riccarton for three pounds per acre. He named it Ilam and built a sod hut.
Ilam Homestead burnt down in 1911 and was rebuilt by Edgar Stead. He established the wonderful azalea and rhododendron gardens. When he sold Ilam to Canterbury College he requested that the gardens be maintained in perpetuity.
Ilam Homestead is also available for hosting all kinds of social events, with its charming sights and all comforts of home it could serve perfectly either for a big festive wedding or a business meeting among gentlemen.
To find out more about the Homestead or to book it for any events, please visit the Ilam Homestead official website.
