Top 7 Gardens in Dunedin, South Island

Glenfalloch Woodland Garden is a lush historic garden filled with native birdsong. Imagine meeting an original 1000 year old Matai tree hidden in the native bush while you listen to a piwakawaka merrily flitting amongst the trees. You can enjoy panoramic harbour views as you stroll among the rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, fuchsias and a profusion of other flower species which integrate with native ferns, exotic imports and indigenous New Zealand trees to showcase 140 years of conservation and expansion of our botanical heritage. Glenfalloch Garden is definitely a four season garden with each season bringing its own special array of colours and fragrances.

The Dunedin Botanic Garden is New Zealand's first botanic garden and holds the status of six star Garden of International Significance. ArbNet, the global network for tree-focussed professionals, has accredited the Botanic Garden as level III. The Camellia Collection is rated as a Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society. The Botanic Garden celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2013, marking its position as New Zealand's first botanic garden. It occupies 30.4 hectares in North Dunedin at an altitude of 25 - 85 metres above sea level. The Garden has hill views from sunny lawns, more than 6,800 plant species and the song of wild native bellbirds, wood pigeons and tui. Its wide range of horticultural and botanical collections includes roses, the herbaceous and perennial borders, a rock garden, New Zealand native plants and four hectares of Rhododendron Dell with more than 3,000 rhododendrons. An important aspect of The New Zealand Native plant collection is the cultivation of rare and endangered native plant species. The geographic plant collections are an expression of the Victorian penchant for collection and growing plants from all around the world and displaying them in related groups. This collection has plants from temperate climates of North Asia, the South, Central and North Americas, Southern Africa, the Himalayas and the Mediterranean.

Explore an authentic example of a Chinese scholar's garden that celebrates the Chinese influence on Otago's history and heritage. The Garden Gift Shop offers the chance to find something culturally different while the Tea House allows you to take your taste buds on their very own tour of China. The garden is open every day expect Christmas Day. As one of only three gardens outside China and the only one in the Southern Hemisphere, it is a truly captivating cultural experience not to be missed.

Wal's Plant and Fun Land is more than just a place to buy your plants. It is located just 15 minutes from Dunedin City Centre and set in a unique tranquil setting with ponds, plants, giftware, a cafe, fresh produce, and entertainment for the whole family. There is a an 18-hole mini golf course, a 300m driving range and mini trains that run September through to May on selected Sundays. The Topiary cafe is also open Monday - Sunday, 9am - 5pm and Wal's Vege Land has all your fresh produce needs. Mini golf is open 7 days and is themed from areas around the Taieri area. The course has 18 holes and most groups find it takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. The all weather driving range is approx 300m long with 6 indoor and 6 outdoor stalls. There are clubs available to ensure you can have a hit and let off some steam or perfect your swing. The Otago Miniature Road and Rail Society run the Mini trains at their home at Wa's Plant and Fun Land from September through to May on selected Sundays (normally every second Sunday). There are electric and steam trains that toot around this unique track. Ideal for all ages. Plus Wal's Plant Land has a comprehensive range of plants, trees and shrubs. There is an in-store florist who can make flowers to order and we also have bouquets available daily. There is also a range of bulk landscape supplies and wood and coal in the winter to keep you warm! There is always something to do at Wal's or just come and enjoy the stunning setting. We have it all at Wal's - for all your landscape, gardening and entertainment needs! Its worth the drive to Wal's!