Leave a Gift in your Will to Canterbury Horticultural Society

Support the Canterbury Horticultural Society by including a gift in your will, ensuring our gardens, education, and community initiatives flourish for generations to come.

For over 160 years, the Canterbury Horticultural Society has inspired a love of gardening, conservation, and community spirit. By including a gift to the Society in your will, you can play a vital role in ensuring our gardens, educational programmes, and community initiatives continue to thrive for generations to come.

Why your Legacy Matters

A gift in your will is a powerful way to leave a lasting impact. Your generosity will:

  • Foster education and inspire a new generation of gardeners.
  • Support community outreach projects and sustainable gardening practices.
  • Preserve and enhance our cherished gardens for everyone to enjoy.

How you can make a Difference

Including the Canterbury Horticultural Society in your will is easier than you might think. Every gift, whether large or small, contributes to a shared vision of a greener, healthier future.

A Lasting Tribute

Every legacy gift is treasured and celebrated as a meaningful contribution to our mission. When you include the Canterbury Horticultural Society in your will, you’ll help us nurture the gardens and green spaces that mean so much to our community.

Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards

Your legacy helps us to continue our programmes like the Edible and Sustainable Garden Awards (above) and Orchards in Schools

 

There are several ways to leave a gift:

  • A Specific Sum: A fixed monetary donation.
  • A Share of your Estate: A percentage or residual amount after your loved ones are cared for.
  • A Particular Item: Such as property, investments, or other assets.

A Legacy in Action

The Story of Percy and May Browne

May Browne’s dedication to horticulture left a lasting legacy for the Christchurch Horticultural Society (CHS). A passionate advocate for New Zealand native flora, she founded the Canterbury Native Flora Society in 1953 and played a key role in fundraising for the Horticultural Hall. Her generosity continued beyond her lifetime, as she bequeathed her entire estate to CHS, establishing the P.C. Browne Scholarship in 1976.

Percy Browne

Percy Browne (picture right) with Sir Heaton Rhodes 

Her husband, Percy Collins Browne (P.C. Browne), was a committed horticulturist and a driving force in CHS for over 20 years. Known for his love of narcissi and roses, he served as secretary from 1938, helping expand the Society, support local garden clubs, and organise a successful monthly speaker programme.

The legacy of May and Percy Browne continues to inspire and support the future of horticulture in Canterbury, providing opportunities for young horticulturists to grow their expertise.

How to take the next step

To include the Society in your will, we recommend speaking with your solicitor or estate planner, along with whanau members. 

If you’d like to learn more about how your gift can make a difference, we’re here to help. The Manager, and Board  would welcome the chance for a confidential conversation at a time that suits you. 

In the first instance please contact the Manager, Jenny Cookson:
Email: office@chsgardens.co.nz or telephone: 366 6937

Thank you for helping us grow

By leaving a gift to the Canterbury Horticultural Society, you’ll be planting the seeds for a vibrant, sustainable future. Together, we can keep up the mahi of connecting people to the art, science and practice of gardening and horticulture for generations to come.