LAVENDER

Just the word conjures up images of sun-drenched purple fields in the south of France. Lavender has memories, for many, of a more simple time. Many recall lavender as being the scent of their Grandma - good warm memories. But these days when people are more and more wanting to get back to natural health remedies, lavender has had a revival as people become aware of it's fabulous healing properties. It is often called the 'Swiss army knife of herbs' or a 'first aid kit in a bottle'.

The Purple Patch Lavender Farm had its beginnings in October 2001 with the planting of 8,000 lavender plants in three varieties - 'Grosso', 'Impress Purple' and 'Pacific Blue'. The temperate climate and the long hot dry summers that Canterbury is known for, are ideal for growing lavender. After 15 months we had our first harvest and the oil distilled - and then the fun of making products began!

We began our product range slowly, carefully choosing manufacturers, deciding on formulas and, as we learnt more, our range of beautiflul items has grown. All the lavender in our products is grown here on the farm. In our small gift shop on the farm you will find the full Purple Patch Lavender product range. We also source other beautiful gifts including jewellery, to supplement our stock. We use both the essential oil and the dried lavender buds.

We harvest mechanically with an old Hesston windrower which we have had adapted to suit the lavender and then go to another lavender grower for the steam distillation process. The harvest occurs anytime between late December and early March, depending on the weather. Lavender needs at least 3 hot dry days before harvesting to get the best essential oil.

If you wish to linger longer we offer bed and breakfast accommodation in our modern home. We are nestled at the southern tip of the Alpine Pacific Triangle in North Canterbury in the Hurunui district. We are only minutes from many wineries and central to activities such as skiing, Kaikoura whale watching, Hanmer Springs thermal reserve and only 45 minutes from Christchurch International Airport.

Ann & Ken Chaney

42 Greney's Lane

RD 2

Amberley

New Zealand

Ph 64 3 3148611