Tūpare is a masterpiece of nature and design. Spanning 8.5 acres, this enchanting landscape was crafted by Sir Russell Matthews and blends formal elegance with natural beauty. From the iconic Chapman-Taylor homestead to the tranquil flow of the Waiwhakaiho River, Tūpare captivates with its lush plantings and serene atmosphere. Wander beneath towering trees, discover hidden garden rooms and experience the magic of this historic place.
Free public garden.
Pukeiti spans an impressive 360ha of lush gardens and rainforest and has built up one of the world’s biggest and most diverse rhododendron collections. Along with other exotics, they create an explosion of colour amidst lush native rainforest and mountain streams. Pukeiti boasts an all-weather visitor centre and walking tracks for all fitness levels. Other highlights include the covered vireya houses, the treetop viewing platform over the waterwheel and the popular Rainforest Eatery.
Free public garden.
Located in the heart of New Plymouth, Pukekura Park is a Garden of National Significance, has a five-star rating from the New Zealand Gardens Trust and has the international Green Flag award. Created in 1876, the 52ha park has an amazing range of native and exotic plants displayed in a natural setting.
The Fernery and Display Houses have been a must-see for almost a century. Linked by tunnels, the three glass-topped caverns dug into a hillside, and the tropical house display a wide variety of native and exotic plants. The Fernery and Display Houses are open 8:30am-4pm
Free public garden.
Located just off Te Henui Walkway, The Vicarage garden embraces history, hues and harmony. Encircling the early colonial building is a wide variety of colourful annuals and perennials that create a restful experience. The Vicarage itself, built from Taranaki andesite in 1845, is one of the oldest surviving stone buildings in New Zealand. It’s also home to the New Plymouth Pottery Club.
Free public garden.
Designed in 1902 this park is a charming example of Edwardian design. Clipped hedges giving shelter to abundant azalea and rhododendron collections. Rose beds of both modern and heritage varieties, historic aged trees. Featuring the bronze Wendy Statue, 150 year old cannon and refurbished Observatory/Park Museum (open daily 10am-2pm). Seek out hidden features along pathways or bring a picnic to seated areas.
Free public garden.
This lush horticultural oasis in the heart of dairy country boasts a nationally significant plant collection featuring rhododendrons, azaleas and a stunning mix of native and exotic species. Established in the 1920s by renowned plantsman Bernie Hollard, the garden is a living legacy of his passion for horticulture. Year-round, Hollard Gardens hums with the activity of birds and insects feasting on seasonal flowers, fruits and seeds.
Families can enjoy the quirky playground and free barbecues in the Family Corner, while keen gardeners will find inspiration in Bernie’s home garden.
Free public garden.
Stratford’s King Edward Park is a gem in the heart of Taranaki, showcasing the area’s unique history, a colourful array of plantings, and the Pātea Awa.
Take the Three Bridges Trail spanning the river, wander along easy walkways of mixed exotic and native gardens and enjoy the McCullough Rhododendron Dell.
Remember to visit the Malone Memorial Gates, built in 1923 to honour local Gallipoli hero Colonel William George Malone, who also invented the lemon squeezer hat.
Free public garden.