Gardens to visit - Bannerman Park

Overview

Bannerman Park, nestled in the heart of Gore, is a must-visit destination for garden enthusiasts exploring New Zealand's diverse horticultural landscapes. Recognised as a Garden of Regional Significance the park offers visitors a captivating blend of natural beauty and local heritage.

Originally known as Hidden Valley, the land was set aside in the 1870s but remained undeveloped until the 1960s. Through extensive work, it was transformed into the lush and vibrant gardens seen today.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along sealed pathways that wind through a rich variety of plantings, including rhododendrons, conifers, native ferns, and deciduous trees like oaks, silver birches, and weeping maples. The park’s streams and ponds, edged with native ferns, astelias, and Chatham Island forget-me-nots, add to the tranquil scenery.

Bannerman Park shines in every season. In spring, cherry blossoms burst into bloom, golden daffodils brighten the landscape, and magnolias bloom in a kaleidoscope of colours, complemented by the park’s magnificent collection of rhododendrons. As summer approaches, the streams and ponds come alive with gunneras, hostas, irises, and candelabra primulas. Peonies, daylilies, and ajuga groundcover add to the colour as the season progresses. Autumn brings brilliant hues from the deciduous trees, while winter sees the blooming of hellebores.

A unique feature of Bannerman Park is its deer enclosure. Maintained by the Southland Deerstalkers since the mid-1960s, the lower park area is home to a small herd of red and fallow deer. These tame deer enjoy the presence of visitors, adding an enchanting touch to the park's charm.

Amenities such as seating areas, picnic tables, and well-maintained pathways make Bannerman Park a welcoming spot for relaxation and appreciation of nature’s beauty.

Whether you're a domestic traveller or an international visitor, Bannerman Park offers a serene and enriching experience, showcasing the horticultural charm of Gore and its significance within New Zealand’s garden heritage.

The Gardener

Our team is made up of passionate plant lovers and horticulture experts who truly care about helping our visitors connect with gardens and nature. They're incredibly knowledgeable and always ready to share their love of plants. Our goal is to make plants and gardens accessible to everyone and show how they can brighten up everyday life.

Garden Size

7.55 ha

Other Facilities

Every Spring, the gardens open to vehicles for a garden drive-through. This allows those with mobility issues to enjoy the area's beauty. Details about the event are advertised on the Gore District Council website.

Info

Price
Gardens are open every day of the year and entry is free.
Parking
A free car park is at the bottom of the Deer Park, on Martin Street and free street parking surrounds the garden.
Wheelchair Access
The main path is fully wheelchair accessible.
Dogs allowed?
Dogs are permitted within the gardens, under control and on a leash. All dog litter must be collected and disposed of appropriately.
Picnics
The picnic tables and platforms are spread throughout the area.
Children allowed?
Bannerman Park is child-friendly and features a modern children's playground.
Seating
Seating is a mix of bench seats, picnic tables and memorial seats.