Location: Waikato Region
Top Things to do in Waikato Region
Top 10 Gardens in Waikato Region, North Island
Waikato (/ˈwaɪkɑːtɔː/ or /ˈwaɪkætoʊ/) is a local government region of the upper North Island of New Zealand. It covers the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel Peninsula, the northern King Country, much of the Taupo District, and parts of Rotorua District. It is governed by the Waikato Regional Council.
Restaurants in Waikato Region
1. Hamilton Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3,439 reviews
Explore an enchanting world of secret gardens. Transport yourself through time and to far-flung corners of the world. Meander through a lush tropical jungle, visit ancient China and indulge yourself in a Renaissance Prince's 16th century garden. Five garden collections have been created to delight the senses, with some garden concepts reaching back 4,000 years. Hamilton Gardens is a conceptual garden based in the Waikato that explores the context, history and meaning of gardens through time, and from around the world. It is internationally recognised for its unique concept and is the Waikato region's most popular tourist destination. Only five minutes drive from Hamilton's CBD, the Gardens is open 7 days a week during daylight hours and entry and parking is free. Access is off SH1, alongside Cobham Drive on the southern side of Hamilton.
Reviewed By Adamc7651
The gardens are a good activity to do for the whole family! Our friends and family enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere and stunning gardens
2. Tapuwae Gardens
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 3 reviews
Reviewed By helenmJ5737PL - Whangarei, New Zealand
Went for a walk with Doff the lady who is the garderner and owener very informative about each plant and trees loved it we stayed the night very peaceful great place to visit highly recomend .it
3. Waipahihi Botanical Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 177 reviews
Reviewed By Naina-Damani - London, United Kingdom
Waipahihi Botanical Garden is an amazing park of native trees and colourful bushes, shrubs and plants which boasts spectacular views over Great Lake Taupo.
4. Ngatea Water Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 93 reviews
Tranquil 5 acre garden paradise, with bridges, waterfalls, waterwheels and magical fountains. Imprinted concrete paths throughout, combined with a huge variety of plantings, make these gardens ideal for year round viewing. Friendly hand fed birds, plus funny signs and scenes throughout the gardens gaurentee to make you laugh. Cafe, giftshop, picnic areas, playground, plus function centre for weddings, etc.
Reviewed By Relax292410
The entire Gardens are beautiful ranging from absolutely amazing to the wonderful little treats along the way like the signs, toilets, crocodiles and an array of peacocks and ducks. What a serene moment my Mother and I had there.
5. RAPAURA Watergardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 281 reviews
A mature property, which has evolved over more than 45 years, Rapaura Watergardens offers something for everyone; native trees, ferns, seasonal flora, lily ponds, meandering walks over lush green lawns, bridges and streams, garden sculptures by an award winning artist and a relaxing bush walk to a cascading waterfall, ‘The Seven Stairs to Heaven’.
Reviewed By FayeF217 - Auckland, New Zealand
An exceptionally beautiful walk in bush like surroundings. The huge Lilly ponds and the waterfalls on one track were very easy to stroll along as was the second section winding around water features, sculptures and amusing sayings on signposts. The Cafe is lovely with good food. Excellent service from Sasha - thank you,so efficient and Sally was a gracious hostess, thank you both. A stand out day out with the Garden Club.
6. Moondance Manor Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
A Waikato Garden of Grandeur in Tamahere, between Hamilton and Cambridge, offering a stunning garden visit, light refreshments and the perfect wedding venue.Moondance Manor Gardens are extensively planted with abundant flower beds, a wealth of native and exotic mature trees, a large ornamental pond with Pekin ducks, many open lawns, and formal hedging; all set on over a hectare bordering the Waikato River.Moondance Manor Gardens are open from October to April by appointment.
7. Taitua Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 263 reviews
Taitua Arboretum is a 20-hectare (49-acre) tree collection just out of Hamilton City. The Arboretum has several lakes and a good network of walking tracks. It is a popular spot for Sunday afternoon picnics and weekend weddings.
Reviewed By N9387EJsusanb - Hamilton, New Zealand
On a very windy the Aboretum walk was well protected from wind and sun and much enjoyed by my leashed dog and I. I was lovely to meander amongst the gardens. It is well sign posted and a reasonably easy walk. Loved seeing a pair of free roaming rabbits, along with many chooks.
8. Tree Church and Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 33 reviews
The TreeChurch is a living chapel made of trees set in beautiful gardens. The Gardens also feature a labyrinth, perennial flower beds, ponds, doves and many stunning trees.
Reviewed By JanetteG847 - Frizington, United Kingdom
The owner gave our group a tour. We began in the tree church which comprises of living trees. It is a wedding venue and couples come from all over the world to get married there. He told us about his journey establishing the garden. It was an interesting and informative talk. He then took us around the garden which has a lovely feel and has many interesting and beautiful trees. There is also a small vegetable garden and perennial flower garden and a labyrinth. There is a wonderful selection of trees set in this beautifully designed garden. Well worth a visit.
9. Joan Williamson Rose Garden
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By Naina-Damani - London, United Kingdom
Rose garden is full of fragrant roses which is nestled in the heart of Taupo. It had a large gazebo surrounded by beautiful colourful shrubs including camellias.
10. Tongariro Domain
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 16 reviews
Reviewed By justjans - Traralgon, Australia
After visiting the Tourist Info Centre, we tool a stroll through the gardens-trees and flowers in blossom, stone carvings and the lovely sunny morning made it a lovely visit.
