Auckland's largest outdoor garden has over 64,000 hectares of lush natives, sub-tropicals, succulents, roses, herbs and edibles as well as collections from Asia and Africa and the Potters Children's garden. Explore the Visitor Centre Huakaiwaka, with cafe, displays and panoramic views.
Free entry
Opening Hours: Dawn to dusk daily
Location:
102 Hill Road, Manurewa
Contact Details: (09) 267 1457 www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz
Ayrlies
Situated in gently rolling countryside 40 minutes east of Auckland City, Ayrlies is one of New Zealand's best known gardens, characterised by sweeping lawns, native plantings, ponds and waterways. In addition, old roses, clematis and perennials combine in romantic profusion.
This breathtaking coastal property offers the opportunity to experience a unique collection of contemporary New Zealand sculptures within natural park surrounds. Visitors can enjoy a guided walk of the park while viewing the outdoor art works. Accommodation is available in a self-contained beach cottage.
Adults $30.00
Opening Hours: Appointment only, mid-October to mid-April
Location: Cowes Bay Road, Waiheke Island
Contact Details: (09) 372 8957 www.connellsbay.co.nz
Eden Garden
An award-winning garden created in an abandoned quarry on the slopes of volcanic Mount Eden, with magnificent views over the city and Hauraki Gulf at the garden's highest point. Visit the onsite cafe before exploring one of the largest collections of camellias in the Southern Hemisphere.
Adults $6.00 and seniors $4.00. Children under 12 free.
Opening Hours: 9.00am - 4.30pm daily
Location: 24 Omana Avenue, Epsom
Contact Details: (09) 638 8395 www.edengarden.co.nz
Parnell Rose Gardens
Popular in spring and summer, the Parnell Rose Gardens feature over 4,500 roses.
Enjoy the coastal views, plantings and outdoor art at Te Whau Garden. The property is comprised of three different types of gardens - The Rainforest, The Wetlands and The House Garden - with collections of New Zealand ceramics and sculptures placed throughout.
An all-season country garden centered on an expansive . ve acre lake. Re. ections of the garden are mirrored from the waterlilly-filled lake, showcasing the many interesting plantings including perennials and bog plants as well as ornamental garden borders.
Whitford Bird Garden is a sub-tropical paradise for pheasants, finches, ducks, turtles and Amazon fish. Experience the original concepts in design, art and wildlife, including sculpture and paintings by artist Blake Twigden.
Opening Hours: Friday and Saturday 10am - 4pm or by appointment
Location: 100 Trig Road, Whitford
Contact Details: (09) 530 8807
Woodbridge
This country garden is comprised of 10 acres of immaculate lawns and carefully planned gardens. There are many interesting features including a formal vegetable potager, croquet lawn, summer house and feature hedges of lavender, box and perfectly manicured silver 'Blue Ice'.
Adults from $8.00, discounts for groups
Opening Hours: Appointment only, 9.00am - 5.00pm daily
Location: 36 Glenmore Road, Coatesville
Contact Details: (09) 415 7525 www.gardens.org.nz
Wrights Watergardens
Seven acres of unique watergardens transform an old quarry surrounding the Mauku Waterfall and stream into a tranquil oasis in the dormant months and a kalaidescope of colour during the growing months. Gift and nursery open daily.
