Explore the gardens

If you’re a keen gardener you’ll love New Zealand. A diverse range of plants—both native and exotic—thrive in the country’s temperate climate, and interestingly, gardening is rated amongst the most popular pastimes for locals. The vast length of the island supports the growth of plants ranging from sub-tropical to sub-alpine. Many cities and towns offer garden tours which include visits to both botanical and private gardens, with the added bonus of gardeners sharing tips with tourists. The rural garden tours of Eastland, Manawatu, Whanganui, Wairarapa and Christchurch are often hosted by residents of stately historic homesteads. At Kerikeri’s Palmco Gardens you can wander through lush sub-tropical splendour, while Matakana’s Villa Tamahunga will reveal a unique garden that encompasses an olive grove, beautiful bush walks, subtropical pond gardens, a rose walk and a sequence of three terrace gardens below the relocated villa. Further south, the Hamilton Gardens explore the relationship between people and plants in five themed gardens, and Hortensia House in Blenheim will charm you with its romantic flower garden with masses of colour co-ordinated flowers. Finally, any talk of gardens warrants a mention of the Garden City of Christchurch. The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are a must-see, and if you visit in March, be sure to attend the famous Ellerslie International Flower Show which is an annual event.