A selection of NZ gardens to visit
Unhurried, intimate wedding ceremonies.
At Paterson Park and Gardens, your wedding unfolds in a calm, private setting designed for connection rather than crowds.
With exclusive use of the gardens, your day flows naturally—from ceremony to photographs to relaxed time with your guests. On the hills above Waikaka, Paterson Park and Gardens’ beautiful vistas and spaces will charm you and your guests. Space for post-ceremony drinks & nibbles
Beautiful, natural photo locations throughout.
Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful oasis with me.
It exceeded my expectations and the high tea was exquisite. You have inspired me to get on with my life projects!
"Thank you so much for your hospitality and your story was very inspiring and interesting and amazing all at once. Your property is so restful and delightful to wander around."
Hi Anne and Ron, Thanks again for the wonderful visit and afternoon tea on the 1st February, all our residents including myself had a great time. Your garden is just beautiful, it was wonderful to see all the love and care that you both put into creating it.
We visited after Mark spoke to our garden club the previous Monday.
Everyone was absolutely blown away by the thought and expertise that went into this exceptional garden....full of plants + wonderful areas which made us all want to explore more. Almost too much to take in with the one tour....I had to go round 3 times just to make sure I hadn't missed anything. Skillfully laid out- making the most of all areas with the use of mirrors a standout. Really clever the way the big water tanks were camouflaged...hardly noticed them.
What a garden - we all loved it.....and slunk away to check out our own gardens to see how we could measure up!
They are so good for the kids and adults it was like a world of wonder land with its hard worked products and tasty goods on the table. It might be made by hand, but you can tell it was worked on for months.
It is a must-see!
Our visit to Rapaura Watergardens was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into another world — a peaceful sanctuary where nature is not just preserved, but truly honoured.
The gardens are crafted with incredible care and intention. Every turn of the path reveals something beautiful: tranquil waterfalls, crystal-clear ponds, lush native plants, and perfectly placed resting spots that invite you to slow down and simply breathe. You can feel the love and vision that went into creating this place. It’s not just a walk — it’s an experience that reconnects you with stillness.
What stood out the most was the atmosphere. There is a deep sense of calm here, almost meditative. The sound of flowing water, the birds, and the surrounding forest create a natural symphony that grounds you instantly. It’s the kind of place where time disappears and you feel fully present.
The staff were warm and welcoming, and everything is maintained to the highest standards
I attended several of Val's garden tours over the summer months.
Through a shared love of gardens and beauty pageants Val and I have worked together for years. I serve tea and coffèe at many of her garden tours and love how people embrace and linger in this beautiful space. For anyone wanting to embrace a city space, I cannot recommend this paradise of roses highly enough.
Thank you very much for our visit today. Your kindness and hospitality is very much appreciated. Your garden is a real credit to you both.
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
