The unique and historic Elms Garden is a Garden of National Significance. Nestled on 2.5 acres in the heart of Tauranga City, The Elms Garden was first developed over 180 years ago, generations of nurturing the collection, design, and plantings have created an enchanting garden. As one of the oldest gardens in New Zealand, the Elms integrates Indigenous and heritage species alongside those introduced by the early missionary gardeners, adding to its charm. Established trees, including New Zealand’s oldest oak tree, provide the perfect habitat for native plants and a vibrant birdlife, garden lovers from all over the world enjoy the garden’s distinctive features, spectacular setting and history.

When CMS Mission Station opened, the Te Papa peninsula was covered with manuka and fern, without trees for beauty, shade or firewood. However, Alfred and Charlotte Brown soon got to work and enjoyed gardening in the favourable Tauranga conditions. Brown’s journal is full of references to gardening: “planting out lettuces, pruning 32 fruit trees, planting out cuttings, sowing peas and beans, preparing and planting raspberry bed, transplanting trees.”

Notably, the Oak Tree at the corner of the north lawn grew from an acorn from England by Rev. Brown in 1829. It was originally planted in Paihia and transplanted here as a sapling in 1838. It is the oldest living tree on the property and a significant heritage tree in Tauranga today.

The Heritage Pavilion and gardens are a modern addition to The Elms incorporating traditional root crops, garden beds and heritage vegetables. The remaining garden today currently displays 69 Roses, 11 Camelia, the Oak tree on the front lawn planted as an acorn in 1829 and brought from England, The Norfolk Pine tree originally planted in 1838 acted as a guide for the sailing ships, favoured by Mission gardens as the top forms a perfect Christian Cross.

The Elms is a garden that celebrates many seasonal highlights.

The Elms | Te Papa gardens are maintained and cared for by a small team of garden staff and some dedicated garden helpers.

The unique and historic Elms Gardens is nestled on 2.5 Acres in the heart of Tauranga City. The grounds and building visits can take 1 hour.

Weddings and special events can be held in the tranquil and unique garden setting or the Chapel which seats 80, and marquee options are available.

https://theelms.org.nz/weddings/

At The Elms | Te Papa Tauranga we have an educational program for visiting school groups. These visits are opportunities for hands-on and interactive learning for today's children, giving them a window into the world of the 1800s in NZ. 

https://theelms.org.nz/education/