Mums have a unique chance this Mothers' Day to travel back to Victorian and Edwardian times by dressing in exquisite vintage clothing and enjoying high tea with family at Athenree Homestead.

The homestead is hosting the unique yesteryear offering once again, which invites mums and their families to book a spot at either 10.30am and 1.30pm on Mothers' Day, May 8.

Event coordinator Val New says ladies and their families can either dress up in their own Victorian attire or hire one of the homestead's beautiful costumes – and make a memorable day for mum.

'We're very lucky, the homestead has been gifted some beautiful costumes – and we have an array of period outfits for all shapes, sizes and ages that people can hire for an affordable price.

'We even have children's outfits, and youngsters are welcome to come along too.”

And this year – along with prizes for those best-dressed – there's a hat and bonnet competition for those willing to enter.

'They can decorate or make their own hat or can hire a hat for a gold coin donation. The winner, picked by two judges, will receive a small personal gift,” says Val.

Built by Adela and her husband Captain Hugh Stewart, following their arrival on the Lady Jocelyn in 1878, the homestead has been lovingly restored since the 1940s.

Val says this event's drawcard is the homestead's relaxing setting – people can step back in time and enjoy a delicious high tea, being waited on by Victorian serving staff in the historic Athenree railway station café.

And the surrounds are peaceful – there's no competing with loud fits and starts of a coffee machine.

'The homestead has a lovely outlook over Tauranga Harbour and it's just beautiful – people can walk round the gardens and we'll have music playing,” says Val.

'It's just a nice, beautiful, authentic historical setting – a very relaxing experience.”

People can book mum in, the event costs $15 per person, by calling Val on 07 8634363 or 021 977 825. Athenree Homestead is at 360 Athenree Rd. See: athenreehomestead.org.nz