Gardens to visit - Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Overview

Kia ora! Nau mai, haere mai!

Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a lush subtropical oasis created by volunteers, in the remnants of a former stone quarry in Northland, New Zealand.

The ex-quarry site is a restoration project taken on by the local community that has flourished into well-established gardens that provide a peaceful respite from the busy pace of modern life. Only moments from SH1, the Gardens are a wonderful place to break up the long journey North. Refuel at the cafe and recharge yourself with a walk-in nature.

With an annual rainfall of 1500-2000 mm per year and New Zealand's highest average temperatures, Northland possesses a truly subtropical climate. At Whangarei Quarry Gardens these climatic conditions, coupled with the shelter provided by the towering walls of the old stone quarry, create an ideal microclimate for growing a diverse range of native and exotic subtropical plants.

While at the Gardens, visitors will find plenty to do, including exploring waterfalls, quarry ruins, tunnels, a lake and forest trails.

Visit Quail Cafe and relax with an award-winning coffee.

Book a one-hour Golf Cart tour (5 people max)

Discover our Sculptures and their stories.

Hike from WQG over the hill to the Quarry Arts Centre through the stunning native bush (1.5-hour return trip)

Relax in a quiet space for a moment or two and enjoy the view!

Entry by donation – supporting our community project.

2024 EVENTS

Music in the Garden's "Either/Or" playing live on Sunday 25th February, 4 - 7 pm. Join us for bubbles, beer and nacho bowls, bring your friends and your dancing shoes! Tickets are $20 each on sale now from the Whangarei Quarry Gardens reception desk.

Whangarei Gardens Discovery - 16th and 17th of November 2024, a tour of 10 private gardens in the Whangarei Region. Tickets are $35 each, on sale closer to the date.

The Gardener

Our dedicated volunteers come from all walks of life and offer a wide variety of skills to help the Gardens flourish. They meet every Monday and Wednesday morning and get stuck in whatever tasks need attention. From weeding, mulching and pruning to liaising with visitors and helping in the office, there is a job for everyone! Cups of tea and coffee are on offer and there is always something to chat about. Our friendly team is our key asset and plays a big role in making Whangarei Quarry Gardens such a wonderful place for people and plants.

Garden Size

The Gardens are over 60 acres and feature a lake, waterfalls, picnic areas, sculptures, forest walks, various garden styles, and several historical remnants.

Weddings

Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a magical venue for your special day; a calm, green oasis only a few minute's drive from central Whangarei.

Several sites within the Gardens are suitable for small or large ceremonies, with some parties choosing to come in for photoshoots only.

To find out more visit www.whangareigardens.org.nz or email: events@whangareigardens.org.nz

Other Facilities

We have a visitor centre with hosts the amazing Quail Cafe open 9 am - 3 pm Wednesday to Sunday.

We also have an information desk and public toilets which include an accessible toilet and a baby change table.

Info

Price
Entry is by donation - supporting our community project.
Parking
Parking is available inside the gates between 9 am and 5 pm. Park in the road-front car park outside these hours and walk in.
Wheelchair Access
Handy access to the Visitors Centre. The main garden paths are gravel. Mixed reviews from wheelchair users.
Dogs allowed?
No dogs, we have kiwi living in the upper gardens.
Food available?
Yes at the Quail Cafe. 9 am - 3 pm Wednesday to Saturday.
Cafe/Restaurant available?
Quail Cafe - open from Wednesday-Sunday 9 to 3 pm. Come in and relax with a coffee, or morning tea or have lunch in the tranquil setting that is Whangarei Quarry Gardens. Renowned for its excellent coffee and delicious sweets, Quail Cafe also have a wonderful breakfast and lunch menu to choose from.
Picnics
Picnics welcome. Please take all the rubbish home with you. No cooking on-site.
Children allowed?
Yes, of course!
Toilets?
Yes, we have public toilets, including one accessible toilet and a baby change table.
Seating
Various seats throughout the Gardens. Picnic tables are also available.
Plants/Sales
We always have cuttings and plants for sale. There is also a gift shop with beautiful gifts and cards.
Function Center?
Email events@whangareigardens.org.nz to find out more.
Guided Tours
Book a one-hour guided tour of the Gardens in our electric Golf Cart. We can take up to 5 guests for a tour of the gardens, which means visitors less able to manage the paths can now get out and enjoy the view from our lookout and visit our stunning arid garden. See our website for prices.