Central garden in middle of Octagon

THE HOUSE AND RESIDENTS

After many years dreaming of having a beautiful place for people to have time out to feed their soul, Olwynne Cade and her husband Jon Rinckes discovered the awesome home they now call Sanctuary House. They consider themselves very fortunate to be given custody of this unique home.   

The building that now exists in Tuahiwi, North Canterbury, New Zealand, was originally part of Queen's Jubilee Memorial Hospital in Woolston Christchurch. It was designed and built by S. Hurst Seager (1854-1933) (whose motto was "Comfort with Economy") as an octagon with a garden in the centre. The hospital opened in 1888 and was designed for "the reception and maintenance of aged poor persons". It was also to be a memorial for the Golden Jubilee of Queen Victoria (1819-1901) in 1887.

Spring blossom

2003 saw the building brought to life again by a former British Army engineer.  He took the original building apart brick by brick and lovingly rebuilt it on five acres of apple and pear orchard in the quiet and peaceful village of Tuahiwi in North Canterbury which is situated on the South Island of New Zealand.

Sanctuary House is in most part, still in its original form and is complimented by tasteful modern fixtures, fittings and décor.  The name Sanctuary House, was given to the property by Jon who felt from the moment he first entered the house that it had maintained much of its original energy, which of course was to offer respite, comfort and sanctuary to its residents.

Every person who has visited Sanctuary House has been captivated by its tranquility and orginality. It does not take long for them to sink down into the soft and peaceful energy. Jon and Olwynne have complimented this house with comfortable, yet tasteful and fitting decor. They are at ease in meeting with and walking along side people who are in need of guidance and respite.

Jon, with his background in the funeral industry for 31 years, and Olwynne, whose background is as a Businesswoman, Theatrical Producer/Director/Writer, a Funeral Celebrant and Holistic Lifecoach. See About Us.

The central garden

The library/teaching room

An ideal place to take time out to rest, reflect and rejuvenate........far from the madding crowd.

Olwynne, Jon,  Alex, Sam, and Jack the Jack Russell, share this beautiful and unique property with 11 sheep, 5 hens, one cat, numerous wild birds and a number of large hares that feature around the property from time to time.

Some of the characteristics of the apple orchard and the pear trees in spring

For directions to Sanctuary House see contact us.