FULL GARDENS .com - Famous Botanical Gardens in New Zealand

Famous Botanical Gardens in New Zealand [Back]

New Zealand boasts a rich array of botanical gardens that reflect its diverse flora and commitment to plant conservation. These gardens serve as sanctuaries for native and exotic plant species, offering visitors serene environments to explore and appreciate the country's unique botanical heritage. Here are some of the most notable botanical gardens in New Zealand:

Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Established in 1863, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens span 21 hectares in the heart of Christchurch. The gardens feature a vast collection of both native and exotic plants, including impressive rose and herb gardens, and majestic trees. The Avon River meanders through the gardens, adding to their tranquil ambiance. Visitors can also explore conservatories housing tropical plant species.

Auckland Botanic Gardens

Located in Manurewa, South Auckland, the Auckland Botanic Gardens cover 64 hectares and were officially opened to the public in 1982. The gardens are home to over 10,000 plant species, with collections focusing on native plants, African plants, and a notable rose garden. The Potter Children's Garden offers interactive experiences for younger visitors.

Wellington Botanic Garden

Situated near the central business district, the Wellington Botanic Garden encompasses 25 hectares of protected forest, specialized plant collections, and colorful floral displays. Established in 1868, the garden features a renowned rose garden, a begonia house, and offers panoramic views of the city and harbor. Visitors can access the garden via the historic Wellington Cable Car.

Otari-Wilton's Bush

Located in Wellington, Otari-Wilton's Bush is New Zealand's only public botanic garden dedicated solely to native plants. Covering 100 hectares of native forest and 5 hectares of plant collections, it includes some of the oldest trees in Wellington, such as an 800-year-old rimu. The garden is classified as a 6-star rated garden by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Eastwoodhill Arboretum

Situated 35 km northwest of Gisborne, Eastwoodhill is the national arboretum of New Zealand, covering 131 hectares. Founded in 1910 by William Douglas Cook, it boasts the largest collection of Northern Hemisphere temperate climate zone trees in the Southern Hemisphere, with around 4,000 different trees, shrubs, and climbers. The arboretum is recognized as a Garden of National Significance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Percy Scenic Reserve

Located in Lower Hutt, Percy Scenic Reserve is a botanic garden and bush reserve dedicated to New Zealand native plants from various habitats, including coastal areas, alpine regions, wetlands, and offshore islands. Covering 16.93 hectares, the reserve features parks, ponds, and forested areas, along with walking tracks leading to a waterfall. It also houses an ex-situ conservation collection for native plant species.