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The Best Gardens
Hamilton Gardens: Stretched along the banks of the Waikato River, this blissful, relatively new 58-hectare (143-acre) reserve is a lovely place to wander and picnic. Development began around 30 years ago; there's now a well-established Asian garden, English garden, herb and scented gardens, and lavish stands of trees.
Eastwoodhill Arboretum: One of the most magical places in the country, hardly a garden by normal standards, this astounding collection -- the best in New Zealand -- is one man's life's work and presents over 3,500 species often studied by international scientists. Go in autumn for unforgettable color displays -- and bring a camera.
Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust: Here you get a world-class collection of rhododendrons, viraya, and azaleas set in a centuries-old forest near Mount Egmont -- our little Mount Fuji. The gardens spread over many acres in a lovely rural setting 30 minutes from New Plymouth.
Christchurch's Botanic Gardens: Regardless of the season, this central-city acreage has plenty to offer, but it's quintessentially Christchurch when the daffodils and bluebells bloom under the huge oak trees along the Avon River and avenues of weeping cherries burst into color. This is when people think of England.
Mona Vale: This little beauty is often overlooked in favor of the city's Botanical Gardens, but it has an intimate charm all its own. Spreading out around a stately Victorian home, these public gardens have myriad lovely features, including iris collections along stream banks, fountains, hostas by the yard, and that old favorite, the rose, which does so well in Canterbury.
Ohinetahi: If you're a garden fan, this is a must. Formal, architectural, and stately are all words that instantly spring to mind. Definitely English-inspired and modeled after the best of England's stately gardens, with quirky New Zealand modifications.
Taunton Gardens: Another Canterbury treat near Ohinetahi. This one is the result of Barry Sligh's ceaseless passion for plants, in particular hostas and rhododendrons. He collects, he breeds, he grows, he tends, he rakes, he weeds, and he still has time to talk gardening. You'll love the lush valley he has developed.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
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