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...
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.
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!
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.
Beautiful,intriguing and wonderfully cared for garden in Howick...full of lovely roses and plants. Val is a wonderful hostess and always thinking of her guests. The garden is easy to navigate with no steps/uneven lawn...crammed with points of interest and charm.
"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"
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.
Fate would have it that Google maps recommended this road to Lake Taupō. I am an amateur vase collector but this blew my mind. Have seen glass blowing in Venice but this topped that. Walked away with 3 pieces but could have left with more. Intimate but yet expert artisans. Loved every minute. Thank you
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.
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!
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
