In the heart of the Flaxbourne District, London Hill Gardens is named after the 19th century ship, London. Owned by the New Zealand Company, it brought many early settlers from England to this country.

To celebrate the historic link, sailing ship and sea concepts are promoted in the London Hill design. Joined by narrow pathways, different levels in the garden represent decks of the ship, while the rolling, uneven land surrounding it can be likened to the sea.

Magnificent views are afforded throughout the garden, especially from the lookout on top of Pudding Hill, where brisk winds are like those commonly experienced on a sailing ship. The London Hill "vessel" is approaching land, though, with lake views and the sight of New Zealand's ninth highest mountain, Mount Tapuae-o-Uenuku (Mount Tappy to locals), rising 2885 metres above sea level.