In 1985, Jack and Alice Commerer purchased the property, named Seven Oaks by a previous owner who had lived for a time at Seven Oaks in England. Situated on State Highway 1 at Tamahere. Since then Hamilton Southern Motorway has been built because of the dangerous crossroad, this has left the property on a quiet side road now named Tamahere Drive. Seven Oaks has an assortment of large trees including the Oaks with a red brick house nestled among them. Besides the Oaks there a London Plane, an english and a horse Chestnut, a Sycamore, a Copper Beach, A large Magnolia Grandaflora, a Kauri, Nikau Palms, Kowhai and Weeping Elms,.over shadowing an English cottage garden with a sweeping circular driveway.
 
 

The cottage garden bounds the roadside with an unusual combination of plants with winding paths throughout. Extensive lawns have beds of modern Roses, archways, fruit trees, vines and vege plot. Bearded Iris have been added with over a hundred named varieties in all the colours of the rainbow. Some plants are available in season (December onwards.) Picnics are welcome, Hot water available. Visits by appointment. Entry fee may apply.
 
 

Karmera Kennels, owned by Jack and Alice is the breeding grounds of some Top show dogs. Jack breeds Border-Collies, has done since the mid 1950 when he followed the Dog Trials in Taranaki. He now supplies pups for work, show, Agility, Obedience and occasionally for Dog Trials, with some being placed in pet homes. The Border-Collie is a black and white sheepdog originating in the Scottish Highlands of the British Iles. 
 
 

Alice breeds Samoyeds, the lovely white smiling dogs with no odour and they do not effect asthmatics. A very friendly people loving dog. Samoyeds originated in the snow country of the Siberian region. The first arrivals in New Zealand being ex sled dogs from the Antarctic expeditions. A Samoyed being the lead dog in the first team to reach the South Pole.
 
 

Down on the Farm, a few head of cows rear calves to cope with the grass that grows on areas yet to be planted with Christmas Trees. Kakhi Campbell Ducks Forage among the Christmas Trees and a few hens scratch around also. Two cats may also accompany you as you look around. 

Back to Mount Gabriel Main Page