People are invited to indulge in a cup of absurdity and a slice of fantasy at a Mad Hatter Garden Tea Party upside down.

During the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, Oak Valley, near New Plymouth, will transform into a tea wonderland, with the Mad Hatter and Alice ready to invite guests over for a cup of tea and pastry.

The tea party is a fundraiser for Conductive Education Taranaki Trust, director Renee Manella said.

Conductive Education Taranaki Trust is a nonprofit that teaches children with neurological disorders important skills through music and play, Renee says.

“These skills improve their abilities, increase their self-esteem and make them more independent.”

After throwing a Mad Hatter Garden Tea Party years ago, Renee says it was time to throw another one.

“It was quite successful. We like to make our fundraising experiences fun. We receive no government funding, so we rely on community support to keep doing what we do. So when people come to the party with the Mad Hatter and Alice, they will also support us.”

The tea party will take place each day of the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, which runs from October 28 to November 6, Renee explains.

“The owners of Oak Valley have decided to donate the money they receive from admission. We all feel very lucky that they are helping us in this way. It takes a lot of work to prepare and maintain a garden, and much more to welcome people to your property. We feel very special that the community supports us the way they do.”

With the number of tea parties taking place during this time, Renee says the Mad Hatter is looking for more Alice to join the party.

“We are looking for more Alices who would be happy to volunteer their time to be part of the tea party.”

The cost to enter the garden is $5, which will go directly to supporting Conductive Education Taranaki Trust, she says.

“There will also be tea and pastries for sale. We are very grateful to everyone who has supported us so far and those who will support us in the future.”

The details:
What: Mad Hatter Garden Tea Party, Conductive Education Taranaki fundraiser.
When: Friday, October 28 to November 6, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. daily.
Where: Oak Valley, 248 Junction road, New Plymouth.
Cost: Admission to the garden $5. Tea and pastries are available with cash and eftpos available.
More Information: For more information or to volunteer and become an Alice, email: [email protected]