A selection of NZ gardens to visit
The latest garden to list on the site is Cottonwood, a 2 hectare garden set in rural Mid Canterbury, lovingly developed since 2005 by its current owners. Designed to be explored, the garden unfolds through a series of formal and informal spaces connected by winding paths that invite discovery. Visitors are guided through diverse plantings of both native and exotic species, with thoughtfully chosen combinations that provide year-round interest in colour, texture, and form. A Rhododendron walk, an organic kitchen garden, espaliered fruit trees, a gently meandering stream, and a pond are among the garden’s highlights.
View garden...
Recently I visited the Blue House Garden in Amberley. If you have not visited this garden before, I highly recommend it for the plant selection and layout. It has a naturalistic theme which looks effortless (but won't be!) and that is a testament to owner and garden designer Jenny. Sumptuous photos on her Facebook and Instagram.
This garden excels at texture and layering and colour. Seed pods are left for effect, special plants are showcased but the ordinary is also special. Wee pots of succulents grouped together; thuggish plants behave very politely in very drought prone parts of the garden and the contrast between simple plants looks deceptively effortless. I think you get the message that this garden rates highly with me.
Thank you for a wonderful visit yesterday to a wonderful garden Anne. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it and I know they will never forget it. Very many thanks,
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!
"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."
"Thank you very much for hosting the Matangi Garden Club yesterday in your gorgeous garden. Members loved the calm soothing environment. the space and the beautiful plantings. From the number of photos taken, you've inspired quite a few people with good ideas. You turned on a perfect day as well."
I visited Woodside for a friend's wedding and was blown away by the beautiful gardens. I've lived in Hamilton for many years and can't believe I've never seen this place before. Les, the owner, gardener, host and self-proclaimed comedian hehe... was so accommodating and friendly. We loved the place so much that my fiancé and I will be back here next year to have our wedding too!
Thanks for having us!
"Jon & Shirley, Thank you for letting us view your wonderful garden. It is an inspiration to us all as well as a testament to your vision and hard work.
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.
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 giving us your time to visit your beautiful garden. Our ladies enjoyed listening to how the garden has been established. Much appreciation from Kotuku Garden Club."
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
