The Wilson family extends a warm welcome to all visitors. Our large 7 hectare park like garden includes one of the world’s finest collections of rhododendrons and azaleas. Rhododendrons and azaleas flourish in Kimbolton and provide a dazzling colour display during the months of October and November, an occasion to mark on every gardener’s calendar.
Cross Hills is situated 540 metres above sea level with a free draining soil and a reliable rainfall, average 1140 millimetres. The water supply for the property comes from a spring, supplying crystal clear water all year round. Cross Hills is situated 540 metres above sea level with a free draining soil and a reliable rainfall, average 1140 millimetres. The water supply for the property comes from a spring, supplying crystal clear water all year round. Winters can be cold with falls of snow quite common. These conditions are similar in some aspects to those found in the Himalayas and China from where the majority of rhododendron species originated.
Since the passing of Eric Wilson, the founder of Cross Hills, in 1992 and his wife Merle in 2003, grandson Scott Wilson and his wife Angela now own and operate this multifaceted business. You will still find Rodney and Faith around Cross Hills working away in the garden. The business involves the growing and sale of quality plants, a well established garden tourism attraction, the running of the 240 hectare farm.
18 acres, allow 1-2 hours for your visit.
Cross Hills Gardens Country Fair is Saturday, November 15th, 2025, at 339 Rangiwahia Road, Kimbolton, New Zealand. P. 0800 746 367 or 06 3285 797
Peak time 12th October to the 30th November Adults $15 children free.
Off Peak 1st December 12th October Adults $10 children free.
Season Ticket $25.00 each* *Not valid on Cross Hills Fair Day held on the 15th November 2025
Our season ticket gives you entrance to the garden for as many visits as you can fit in right through to the end of May. Give one as a great gift to garden lovers or those friends or family members who appreciate regular walks in the fresh country air! Get yours from the Garden Cafe or Office.
Please contact us to discuss our voucher options.
Most buildings are accessible by wheelchairs or electric scooters. Virtually all the garden is accessible by wheelchair (wheelchair available to use) or electric scooters but due to the distance to view the garden, we suggest having two pushers. Alternatively, book a tour on the Magic Mini
Catering is available for pre-booked groups only, subject to availability, please contact our office to discuss.
Catering is available for pre-booked groups only, subject to availability, please contact our office to discuss.
You are very welcome to picnic in the areas set aside. We have tables in the grassed picnic areas opposite the Café and in the car park paddock.
Yes, we have toilet facilities suitable for coach groups. Wheelchair access is available.
We have tables in the grassed picnic areas opposite the Café and in the car park paddock.
Visit Cross Hills Gardens & Nursery and browse our large selection of Rhododendrons and Azaleas. All our Rhododendrons are field grown onsite in Kimbolton to ensure a healthy, non root bound plant.
Magic Mini Tours are available for leisurely transport around the garden for those visitors who are unable to walk the distance or want to sit back and relax. This service is available by appointment only, please Contact Us.
By arrangement.
339 Rangiwahia Road RD 54 Kimbolton 4774 .
Centrally located on Rangiwahia Rd, 5 km north of Kimbolton, (32 km north of Feilding) with good access from all directions. Estimated travel time from Wellington is 2.5 hours, Masterton and Hastings 2 hours, New Plymouth 3.5 hours, Taupo 2.5 hours, Wanganui 1.25 hours, Palmerston North and SH 1 at Mangaweka 45 minutes. Check web site for map.
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
