A selection of NZ gardens to visit
An exceptional wedding venue does more than just host a crowd—it orchestrates the rhythm of your entire day, seamlessly transitioning from the emotional weight of "I do" to the joyous celebration of the reception. The best spaces are purposefully designed to honour the ceremony, including 8 outdoor options and 3 indoor options. Offering picturesque backdrops like sunlit garden arches, sheltered vineyard arbours, or grand architectural framing that naturally draws every eye to the couple. Thoughtful layout flow ensures that guests move effortlessly from the vows to cocktail hour without missing a beat, while on-site versatility guarantees that rain or shine, the atmosphere remains effortlessly intimate and romatic.
View garden...
Such a magical and truly unique garden. Exploring the many pathways and features along the way is a delight - Jenny’s imagination and passion for her creation is infectious!
Amazing venue and setting, we loved every minute of our special day. Accommodation is comfortable and grounds well maintained, hard to find any comparable setting - super unique.
"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."
An AMAZING garden that astonished us all from the time we drove into the palm lined driveway until we left - still shaking our heads about the hard work and vision that we had seen. MASSES of stunning bromelliads ...not usually a fan but I'm a convert now! Wonderful to see superb trees- both native and exotic - and clever plantings.Ann + Graham have created a beautiful ,interesting garden with both skill and foresight....there was always something lovely to see....such a treat.
Many thanks for hosting our Garden Club last Wednesday. We enjoyed viewing your extensive garden, especially the guided tour and the knowledge you shared with us. I guess we also need to thank your husband. Many thanks.
“The most beautiful venue, it exceeded every Pinterest board idea and dream we had talked about!!”
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 just wanted to thank you for allowing my twin sister and me to visit your amazing property last week. What an absolute inspiration and delight you are Judy. You’ve kept that dream alive after your dear husband passed and I think it’s keeping you going!! We so enjoyed the experience, swapping our funny gardening stories and seeing your beautiful garden. The photos don’t do it justice but I created a post on my own page, The Uralla Garden. Hope you don’t mind. I used some of the photos from your website but captioned them as such.
Hope you are well and once again thank you Judy
"Shirley & Jon ,
What an inspiring place . Thank you so much.
Your words were so entertaining and we had many chuckles as we related to your various experiences developing the surrounding beauty.
Thank you also for our delightful morning tea which was appreciated so much.
The memory of todays visit to your beautiful home and garden " Hadleigh", will remain with us as we continue life's journey"
Incredible use of a medium-sized section giving the impression it is so much larger. The front is full of beautiful flowers and the back has an abundance of fruit trees and vegetables together with an all-weather entertainment area. There are endless surprises with garden art, statues, mirrors and an incredible Tillandsia 'tree' made from driftwood with the plants secured on. Was also very impressed with the well-hidden water tanks. Lots of ideas to take away for my own small section.
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
