1-10 November 2024
Experience glorious gardens and events at New Zealand’s biggest spring celebration gardenfestnz.co.nz
Kia Ora
Nau mai, haere mai
Welcome to the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, winner of the NZEA New Zealand’s Favourite Event Award for 2023. This award is a true acknowledgement of our incredible team of gardeners, volunteers and seasoned professionals who work tirelessly to ensure our festival is the best it can be, year after year. Thanks to you all!
Once again, we are delighted to bring you a spring celebration of wonderful and diverse gardens, sustainable backyards and a variety of new and long-established events. This programme and our festival map, packed with information and activities, is designed to assist your journey and garden adventures around the beautiful Taranaki Maunga. As the Garden Festival Manager, it is a privilege to bring you this iconic celebration – our 37th year. On offer are an impressive 45 gardens – five new to the festival and five returning after a short rest.
We welcome you all into the festival family for 2024 and thank you for opening your gates for our visitors.
It is with enormous gratitude that we acknowledge our partners, sponsors, dedicated gardeners and you, our visitors, who join our Taranaki locals in supporting our festival and region every year.
We are so proud that the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival is the event with the highest number of NZGT stars nationally – a fantastic achievement. Come along to see for yourself why and how Taranaki is such an abundant region for all things gardening. The 37th festival truly has something for everyone, and our wonderful gardeners are looking forward to welcoming you.
Nau mai, haere mai, welcome to Taranaki. Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival Manager Jessica Parker
COME JOIN US AT THE
Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival Hub
Our Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival Hub has a new home.
This year you’ll find our Festival Hub in the heart of the Plymouth International Hotel, a place known for its fabulous hospitality – just like our Hub team.
Located between New Plymouth’s two major oneway systems, with free parking on site, the hotel is an ideal base for the hubbub of the Hub.
Here, our garden festival team will be on hand to answer all your questions and help steer your journey around Taranaki Maunga to meet our dedicated gardeners, view their glorious gardens and learn more about what our wonderful region has to offer.
All visitors are welcome to the Festival Hub at the Plymouth International Hotel to find:
• Local knowledge of things to do and see in Taranaki
• Garden and event entry tickets
• Festival information, guidance and suggestions
The Plymouth International Hotel is also offering delicious Devonshire teas and/or delightful bubbles and canapés in the hotel bar during the Festival Hub’s opening hours.
Pop in to see us for information, advice, tickets and the warmest welcome to the
Date/Time Fri 1 Nov – Sun 10 Nov, 8.30am–11.30am and 3.00–6.00pm (during the festival)
Venue Plymouth International Hotel
220 Courtenay Street
New Plymouth Admission Free
37th Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival.
Gardens
Events
Chief
Festival
Business
Financial
Gardens
Marketing
Festival
Creative
Garden Liaison Team
Jenny Oakley, Tony Barnes, Jennifer Horner, Chris Paul
Patron
Neil Holdom – Mayor, New Plymouth District Council
Trustees
Glenn Brebner (Chair), Marie Pearce, Katie Wolfe, Chris Lynch, Hayden Wano, Eleanor Connole
Welcome to the 2024 Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival!
Centuria is proud to be continuing our association as naming sponsor for a third year running, supporting this vibrant festival which was last year voted New Zealand’s Favourite Event – and rightly so!
Across 10 days, thousands of visitors will arrive in the Taranaki region to take in the best of what this spectacular region has to offer.
Centuria is an ASX-200 listed Australasian property investment manager with a 35-year track record, currently managing more than $20 billion of real estate assets on behalf of our investors – many of whom reside in the Taranaki region.
People are the foundation of our business – both as employees and investors, and this very much aligns
with what this festival is all about – people getting together to appreciate and draw inspiration from spectacular gardens, and the vision and dedication of their generous hosts.
We again acknowledge the fantastic team at the Taranaki Arts Festival Trust (TAFT) who pull this event together, and our thanks also goes to Venture Taranaki, New Plymouth District Council, TOI Foundation, Taranaki Regional Council for their support.
Mark Francis, CEO, Centuria
How to Book
Easy Online Bookings
Bookings can be made through the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival website.
This is a secure site for your ticket bookings. Some service fees may apply.
www.gardenfestnz.co.nz
Phone Bookings
Phone bookings will only be accepted with credit card payments. These can be done through the Festival Office, Mon to Fri 10am–4pm.
06 759 8412
Garden Entry is by Ticket Only
Pre-purchasing of tickets is advised, so our gardeners are free to greet visitors and walk and talk.
Tickets are available from official outlets, online, from the TAFT office.
Tickets are also available to purchase at the garden gate.
Each garden has nominated their charge of one, two or three tickets. Tickets are sold in $5 denominations. Free entry for children 12 and under.
Ticket Outlets
i-SITE Centres
New Plymouth i-SITE Puke Ariki North Wing, 65 St Aubyn St
South Taranaki i-SITE 55 High St, Hāwera
Local Information Centres & Libraries
Inglewood Library 46 Rata St, Inglewood
Inglewood Info Centre Funho Toys, 25 Rata St, Inglewood
Waitara Library 15a Queen St, Waitara
The Crafty Fox Co-op 1155 South Rd, The Village Mews,Ōakura
Ōpunake Library Plus 43 Tasman St, Ōpunake
Stratford Library 56 Prospero Pl West, Stratford
Other Outlets
Big Jim's Garden Centre 1221 Devon Rd, New Plymouth
Mitre 10 New Plymouth 305-307 St Aubyn St, New Plymouth
Mitre 10 MEGA 5 Vickers Rd, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth
Look out for the following symbols in the garden descriptions, which highlight the number of tickets needed.
$5 admission
$10 admission
Masters Mitre 10 Cnr Juliet & Fenton St, Stratford
Festival Enquiries
$15 admission
PO Box 4251, New Plymouth, 4340
P 06 759 8412 E enquiries@gardenfestnz.co.nz gardenfestnz.co.nz
Follow us for festival updates and exclusive offers
You can also purchase tickets at the garden gate.
Garden Categories
- The Vicarage - Ngā Pātiki
- Beechwoods - Christiansen Garden
- Stratford’s King Edward Park
- Himalayan Garden of Tranquillity
- Nikau Grove - Over the Rainbow
- Saxton Sanctuary - Oak Valley VEGE
- Black Gates - Korito
- The Galleys' Garden
- Hollard Gardens - Pukeiti
- King Edward Park (Hāwera) - Pukekura Park
- Te Henui Cemetery - Tūpare
Key to icons
Number of tickets needed per person
Refreshments
Toilets
Plant/craft sales
Wheelchair friendly
Accommodation
Bus parking
PUBLIC
SPECIAL INTEREST
- Stratford's King Edward Park - The Vicarage
- Frog Lodge
- The Nice Garden - Tropical Treasures
is
All festival gardens get assessed. Every garden goes through this process on a three-yearly cycle. The New Zealand Gardens Trust, an initiative of the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture, provides an independent assessment of New Zealand gardens. You will note that some gardens in our festival have
Pop-over motorhome parking (enquire with gardener)
The Festival is always on the lookout for new gardens. If you want more information on how you can be part of the 2025 festival contact us 06 759 8412.
chosen to be assessed by the Trust as well as undergoing the festival’s own assessment process. These gardens can be identified by the placement of the NZGT logo reflecting either a Garden of Significance, National or International Significance. Taranaki is host to a fantastic 16 NZGT star gardens!
Bell Block
This rapidly growing residential town is one of the region's hidden gems, boasting rugged coastlines with pristine beaches and lush farmland dotted with historic sites.
Waiongana Gardens 1.
74 Kairau Rd West, Waitara, 4373
John Wilmshurst & Diana Montgomery
This 4ha garden bordered by the Waiongana River, has many varied spaces, including a Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Redwoods, Native River Walk, log walls and a developing produce area to name but a few. The mostly flat terrain has enabled a large variety of easy walking avenues and vista viewpoints. This garden is well known for the herbaceous peonies that usually flower during the festival.
Scrumptious savouries, cakes, tea, coffee and cold drinks from Theory Food will be on sale in the Pavilion.
Turn off Mountain Rd SH3A to access Kairau Rd West.
Open 9am–5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 021 103 1237 E johndianaw@gmail.com
@waionganagarden WaionganaGardens
Marcella Point 2.
280 Mountain Rd, Lepperton, 4373
Cheryl & Geoff Burt
Surrounding the house are large park-like, terraced gardens. Well-established flora includes natives, rhododendrons, hostas, and more. Discover Cheryl’s creative expression throughout, including accessible stone-walled paths, a garden dedicated to the ANZACS, and other unique installations. Marcella Point is an expansive property, fun for all ages. Entry includes an (optional) quiz, with fun things to find and seek.
Event: Marcella's Market (see page 57)
Event: Mitre 10 Garden Speaker Series (see page 65)
Open 9am–5.00pm, Admission 1 ticket P 020 407 35531
Magnolia Grove 3.
6 Mahoetahi Rd, Waitara, 4382
Vance & Kathryn Hooper
Magnolia Grove is owned by nurseryman and magnolia plant breeder Vance Hooper and his wife Kathryn. Together they have created a garden where paths flow out naturally to unfold a myriad of magnolia species, bamboo forest, bee garden and Mediterranean garden of succulents and cacti. This idyllic sanctuary, maturing to a forest, is a must see for its rare and unusual plants and trees with a wide range of plants for sale.
Event: Let's Grow Banana's (see page 65)
Open 9am–5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 439 7207, E budder@xtra.co.nz, W magnoliagrove.co.nz
@tropics_on_mangati
Frog Lodge 5.
39 Bishop Rd, New Plymouth, 4372
David & Noeline Sampson
After selling their nursery Cedar Lodge 13 years ago, David and Noeline transformed 7ha of rural farmland into Frog Lodge. Their passion for conifers can be seen throughout this “tree garden”, which also features a substantial-sized lake. A newly developed area stars a restored railway station nestled amongst young trees and a hillside planting of young natives. Visitors will also see two forms of weeping blue Atlantic Cedars, four cultivars of yellow New Zealand native trees, and new forms of miniature conifers.
Open 9am–5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 0274512654, E david.noeline@xtra.co.nz
Tropics on Mangati 4.
108 Mangati Rd, Bell Block, 4312
Amelia de Ridder
This relaxing garden will transport you to an island paradise. It’s packed with over 50 palms and cycads, underplanted with lush tropical flora and brimming with bromeliads. To complete the picture, add perennials, rhododendrons, vireyas, agaves and ferns, along with a vertical garden, water features, a fishpond, and garden art.
For sale are bromeliads and a few other plants. Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee on the decks and enjoy the view!
Open 9am–5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 230 1009 E tropics.mangati@outlook.com
Open 7 days, Mon - Fr i 9a m - 3pm, Sat & Sun 9a m - 4pm, Closed P ublic Holidays Ca fe & G a r dens a r e ava il a ble for w eddings, f unc t ions & pr i vat e hir e
INTEREST
Tropics on Mangati
The Galley's Garden 6.
500 Richmond Rd, Lepperton, 4373
Frank & Teri Galley
VEGE
Through the canopy entrance of 20-year-old prunus, michelia are underplanted with ivy to give structure. This property was purchased 5 ½ years ago and the owners have since transformed this mature garden with palms, varieties of fern, bromeliads, and natives. Bring the kids to the wetlands garden, home to three large turtles; stand there quietly to see them pop their heads out of the water. The large Bug Retreat will also ignite their imagination and yours!
Meandering paths hedged with liriope lead through woodlands plantings. Past the gleditsia is the enclosed potager patch with espalier fruit trees and antique water feature. Here you will discover the Galley’s passion for growing unusual edible delicacies.
Open 9am–5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 494 5550, E frank.teri@spudz.co.nz
Jungle Nurseries
57 Colson Rd, New Plymouth, 4372
Michael Mansvelt
Riverlea 7.
367 Corbett Rd, Bell Block, 4373
Ann & Vince Naus
This large garden property flows around a relocated and restored 120-year-old villa. Since 2003, Ann and Vince have poured their talents and passion into creating Riverlea. They have engaged an array of ideas, including a perennial border, woodland garden and maple walk. The boardwalk to the river leads to secluded seating surrounded by rimu, kauri, nikau and other natives. Buses by arrangement.
Event: Botanical Art and Nature Journaling (see page 52)
Event: La Mer Jazz in the Gardens (see page 53)
Open 9am–5pm, Admission 1 ticket (All proceeds will go to the Taranaki Cancer Society) P 027 447 3950 (Ann) 027 471 6474 (Vince)
E ann.vince@xtra.co.nz
Renowned New Zealand designer Michael Mansvelt has transformed an empty garden centre into a site so verdant and vibrant, he has named it Jungle Nurseries.
Michael bought the 1.5-acre (6070-square-metre) property in early 2020, then with help from his team, filled it with his favourite plants. The nursery features several large glasshouses ideal for growing rare and exotic tropical plants – the main glasshouse is a must-see and perfect destination for rainy festival days. Visitors will be inspired by the interesting plant combinations and playful and rhythmic design. Refreshments available for purchase.
Open 9am–5pm, Free Admission P 021 420 0930, E michael@michaelmansvelt.com 8.
JUNGLE NURSERIES PRESENTS: Exclusive Book signing + Author talks
With Michael Mansvelt
Landscape, House & Interiors Designer
Taranaki’s own Michael Mansvelt is a Landscape, House, and Interiors designer, helping his clients all over Aotearoa New Zealand create their own paradise at home.
During the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, Michael will launch -- Everyday Opulence -- his new hardcover coffee table book from Bateman Books. With 260 pages of inspiring images and practical insights, Everyday Opulence is a glimpse into Michael’s celebrated career spanning three and a half decades, of gardens, homes, and interiors.
Visit michaelmansvelt.com for info about pre-orders, daily book signings and author talks during the CenturiaTaranaki Garden Festival.
1-10 November 2024
Where: 57 Colson Rd, Waiwhakaiho, New Plymouth
When: 9am-5pm daily
Pop-up Café
set in the stunning Waiongana Gardens
Open 10am-4pm daily during the festival
Seating available
Hosted by local caterers, Theory Food providing delicious savouries, sandwiches, dreamy sweet treats and beverages.
coffee carts.
New Plymouth is also alive with festivals, where countless international acts have performed, including WOMAD NZ and is home to the Bowl of Brooklands.
9.
Pukekura Park & The Fernery and Display Houses
10 Fillis St, New Plymouth
New Plymouth District Council (several entry points)
Located in the heart of New Plymouth, Pukekura Park is a Garden of National Significance, has a five-star rating from the New Zealand Gardens Trust and has the international Green Flag award. Created in 1876, the 52ha park has an amazing range of native and exotic plants displayed in a natural setting.
The Fernery and Display Houses have been a must-see for almost a century. Linked by tunnels, the three glass-topped caverns dug into a hillside and the tropical house display a wide variety of native and exotic plants. The Fernery and Display Houses are open 8.30am-4pm.
Guided walks and tours available, (see page 60)
Open Park is open all hours if using the alternative car parks, main car park gates locked at 8pm. Free admission. P 06 759 6060 E enquiries@npdc.govt.nz W newplymouthnz.com
@hello_np New Plymouth District Council
10.
Te Kāinga Marire
New Zealand Native Garden Paradise
15 Spencer Pl, New Plymouth, 4312
Valda Poletti & David Clarkson
Te Kāinga Marire is the only private native garden sanctuary in New Zealand to be rated as a Garden of International Significance. Te Kāinga Marire’s (translated ‘peaceful encampment’) point of difference lies in the natural plant associations that evoke a feeling of the real New Zealand. This native plant paradise was developed in 1972 from clay wasteland. Keen outdoor adventurers, the owners wanted a bird-friendly garden designed around the ecological groups they had observed in the wild. New Zealand native grasses, climbers, herbaceous plants, shrubs and trees have been carefully nurtured around rustic fences, a wetland, a colonial bush hut and cool fern-filled whare. Shy tui now regularly fly into the garden to feed.
This garden features in the BBC series Around the World in 80 Gardens, which first screened in 2008 and has been awarded a 2021 Taranaki Regional Council Environmental Award for enduring commitment to environmental protection and improvement, and inspiring others to act.
In recognition of our late garden photographer Rob Tucker, a portion of the proceeds from this festival will be donated to the Taranaki Hospice.
Open 9am–4.30pm, Admission 3 tickets
P 06 758 8693 M 027 588 9003
E valda@tekaingamarire.co.nz W tekaingamarire.co.nz
12.
Pukemara
5 Tyne Pl, New Plymouth, 4312
Alan Morris
Alan has created a town garden of two parts—a flat courtyard and a hillside garden. The courtyard garden features spring colour. Annuals and perennials combine with vireyas, roses and maples. The woodland garden at the rear has wonders around every corner of the zigzag path, with colourful rhododendrons, azaleas, viburnums and hydrangeas under a canopy of mature trees. Pukemara is a haven for hostas. You’ll find a large selection of these lush leafy plants on show and for sale along with other plant varieties. Pukemara has featured in the New Zealand Gardener magazine.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket
P 06 758 6251/027 828 0230 E acmorris@xtra.co.nz
11.
Sequoia Steps
21a Sequoia Gr, New Plymouth, 4312
Shane & Mel Hurliman
A tranquil inner-city hideaway orientated to comfortable outdoor living. Shane has built structures that make the most of the available space, while Mel has added the softer touches with her love of maples and hostas. The garden lights up at night and there will be live music most evenings. There are areas to shelter from the wind and rain. Garden art will be for sale, including water features. Sequoia Steps featured in NZ Gardener magazine.
Supporting Gumboot Friday
Open 10am-5pm and 7.30pm-10pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 297 4157 or 027 477 3434, E mel2@xtra.co.nz
13.
Oak Valley
248 Junction Rd, New Plymouth, 4371
Paul & Pat Ekdahl
Massed plantings of trees, shrubs and roses give immediate impact to this level country garden, which has been developed over the past 25 years. The various garden rooms and wedding garden make this a perfect picnic spot for visitors. Other features include a jetty by the lake, a renovated chapel, classic cars on display and handmade greeting cards by Roxicards. Refreshments available 10:00am - 3:00pm daily with a Mad Hatter twist.
Event: Mad Hatter Garden Party (see page 58)
Event: Mitre 10 speaker series (see page 63)
Open 9am-4pm, Admission 1 ticket (all proceeds go to Conductive Education Taranaki) P 06 758 1501 M 027 442 0325 E patekdahl@gmail.com
Black Gates
6 Holly Oak Tce, 4371
Gill & Greg Miles
This vegetable garden illustrates a country lifestyle with the convenience of living close to the city.
Set on 1.9ha with a sustainable vegetable garden, fruit trees, microgreen glasshouse and livestock paddocks. This garden is also a great stop for lunch on the deck amidst the palms and sub-tropical plantings.
Greg will give a daily talk at 11.30am on his methods of composting and worm castings.
Event: Wellness Power Bowl Demonstration with Wild Pear Kitchen (see event page 55)
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 478 2865 E fivemiles5@gmail.com
61 Branch Rd, New Plymouth, 4312
Katy & Willie Roach
This peaceful, secluded garden with large sprawling lawns, is a hidden urban retreat. The rustic natural setting is surrounded by native bush which has a QE II covenant. Sustainability and resourcefulness are key gardening practices. Maples, specimen trees and natives are interspersed with colourful annuals, perennials, roses, hostas, hydrangeas, irises and sub-tropical plants. Fruit trees and vegetables provide organic produce.
Stroll through the bush paths, view old farm collectables or Willie’s collection of American cars.
Devonshire teas, home-baked classics and artisanal French treats, available 10am - 2pm in the garden cafe or picnic on the lawn.
On street parking preferred. Parking is available down the drive for those less mobile.
Event: La Mer Jazz in the Gardens (see event page 53)
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 06 757 2739 M 027 863 9048 E katywillieroach@gmail.com
Kahikatea Garden
Kahikatea
VEGE
Te Henui Cemetery
Cnr Watson St & Lemon St, New Plymouth
Volunteers & New Plymouth District Council
Pretty, vibrant, charming and unexpected with huge plant diversity. Visit the city's oldest public cemetery featuring 6ha of mass-plantings in and around the graves and an abundance of mature trees. Five-star TripAdvisor rating. Open dawn to dusk.
Guided walks and tours available (see page 60)
Open All day, every day. Free admission.
P 06 759 6060 E enquiries@npdc.govt.nz W newplymouthnz.com
@hello_np New Plymouth District Council
16. 17.
Korito
28A Trafalgar St, New Plymouth 4310 Dee Turner
Suburban permaculture garden educating visitors on self-sufficiency and growing food. Planted with annual, biennial, and perennial productive plants that produce food all year. The garden has mandalas, mosaics, stepover and espaliered fruit trees, a herb spiral, food forest, productive sub-tropicals, and an ancient bush block.
Event: Mitre 10 Garden Speaker Series (see page 63)
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 021 125 2035 E derinatur@hotmail.com W korito.co.nz
18.
Hirst Cottage
94 Pendarves St, New Plymouth, 4310 Judi Gopperth
This inner-city garden adopts linear principles and is themed ‘green and white with a touch of red’. It features white petunia, white lilies and black velvet pelargonium, with the ambience of courtyards, gazebo and buxus hedging. This 1865 property holds a Heritage A listing and stands alongside the historical cluster known as Hen and Chickens. The protected oaks, ginkgo and Pohutukawa add to the unique story. Previously featured in NZ House & Garden, Your Home & Garden, NZ House & Garden House Tours and The Gardeners Journal.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket
P 027 676 1500 E judi.jag@xtra.co.nz
VEGE
What's On?
2 - 3 November Taranaki Symphony Orchestra and Ensembles perform on the tennis court. Tea and home baking available to purchase. 9.30am–4pm.
4 - 10 November VIBE coffee van will be open serving fresh coffee from 8am–2pm.
Daily Guided house tours. 10am–12.30pm.
Daily Guided walking tour. 2pm.
Tūpare is open all day every day with free entry for all. It is owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council.
19.
Tūpare
487 Mangorei Road, New Plymouth, 4312 Taranaki Regional Council
It’s almost unbelievable that a steep hillside overlooking the Waiwhakaiho River could be sculpted into such an elegant landscaped garden with luscious borders, majestic trees and secluded outdoor rooms. Established by the Matthews family in the 1930s, Tūpare’s central feature is a majestic house in the Arts and Crafts architectural style, based on a design by the renowned James Chapman-Taylor.
Open All day, every day. Free admission. P 0800 736 222 E regionalgardens@trc.govt.nz W trc.govt.nz
@tuparegardens
TupareGardens
Three Elms 21.
19 Anne St, New Plymouth 4310
Shane & Lisa McNab
Experience way more than what you may expect from the street view of this urban hillside garden. Filled with a fusion of subtropical plants and perennials. Allow some time to enjoy creative landscaping with paths, steps, rocks, courtyards and garden rooms filled with plant combinations and foliage to delight. Coffee/tea and scones from 10am daily while they last. Bromeliads and perennials for sale.
Open 9.30am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 06 753 2532 E lisamcnab@me.com
The Nice Garden 20.
71 Brougham St, New Plymouth, 4310 Terry Parkes
Hidden behind one of New Plymouth's oldest wooden buildings, there is a verdant outlook created by a compact garden, with lush palms and sub-tropical foliage. Enjoy a light lunch in an urban oasis. Dining in or outdoors on the sheltered deck with a fireplace.
Two course lunch with wine match - $50pp Fri – Sun, 11:30am – 3:00pm, during the festival (other days by arrangement for groups over 20)
Event: Twilight Tour (see event page 53)
Open 11am-late, free admission, P 06 758 6423 E info@nicehotel.co.nz W nicehotel.co.nz
22.
Himalayan Garden of Tranquility
19A Horizon Heights, New Plymouth, 4310
Bindu & Kam Sharma
With a vision and lofty vista, Bindu and Kam have transformed an exposed, challenging hill-top site into a garden reflecting childhood memories in the Himalayas. There are many resting spots in this muchmatured property, which features year-round colour and fragrance. This tranquil garden has views of both the horizon and the mountain.
Open 9am-4.30pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 511 6591/027 452 6276 E drbsharma@yahoo.com
Nikau Grove 23.
65F Govett Ave, New Plymouth, 4310
Ian & Elsie Lind
RETURN
Hundreds of nikau palms set the South Pacific theme. Native plantings and lush exotics create splashes of colour through this sizable suburban garden. Established pukatea trees with huge buttress roots form a native rainforest canopy along a natural creek. Sculptures, boardwalks, ponds a large waterfall and a wētā motel also feature. Steep access, roadside parking only. Golf cart available on request. Classic cars on display.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 2 tickets
P 021 049 3286 / 021 863 260
E elsielind17@gmail.com
Over the Rainbow 24.
26 Mayfair Pl, New Plymouth, 4310
Rhys Cumpstone & Tim Allingham
At the end of this cul-de-sac lies a hidden garden. From structured planting at the front, explore the slopes of perennials, tree ferns and bromeliads before stepping down to a secluded native bush walk. A distinctive house, designed by Roger Walker in 1979, looks out over this curated, eclectic garden, which is completed by selected ethnic artworks. Garden featured in NZ House & Garden March 2022 issue.
Open 10am-4pm, Admission 1 ticket
P 027 204 3899
E rhys3@tpg.com.au
Hurworth Country Garden 26.
603 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth, 4371
Graeme & Jan Worthington
This graceful country garden packed with flourishing beds, borders and mass plantings has been developed around a 1910 villa on a 1ha property. Special features include a summerhouse, expansive lawns, established native and exotic trees, brick and stone walls, a grass tennis court, fountain, formal and woodland plantings, and treasured garden furniture. This garden was featured in NZ House & Garden Nov 2021. Off-road parking available.
Event: Twilight Tour (see event page 53)
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 06 753 6042 M 027 383 6828 E jandgworth@slingshot.co.nz
@hurworthcountrygarden
Saxton Sanctuary 25.
48 Saxton Rd, New Plymouth, 4310
Owen Howell & Kim Robson
RETURN
This 40-year-old woodland garden, legacy of a renowned Taranaki plantsman, has provided historical content for current owners Kim and Owen. The 0.6ha holds an extensive array of evergreen and deciduous, native and exotics along with rare and unique plants. Vast colour is provided by rhododendrons, azaleas, astilbes and irises. Hostas flourish at the pond alongside burgundy and red maples.
Event: Twilight Tour (see event page 53)
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 0 27 6533 637 E owenhowell65@gmail.com
The Vicarage 27.
288 Courtney St, New Plymouth 4310
New Plymouth Disctrict Council
Located just off Te Henui Walkway, The Vicarage garden embraces history, hues and harmony.
Encircling the early colonial building is a wide variety of colourful annuals and perennials that create a restful experience. The Vicarage itself, built from Taranaki andesite in 1845, is one of the oldest surviving stone buildings in New Zealand. It’s also home to the New Plymouth Pottery Club.
Open All day, every day. Free admission. P 06 759 6060
E enquiries@npdc.govt.nz
W newplymouthnz.com
28.
Tropical Treasures
816 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth, 4371 Shane & Sharolyn Croton
Tropical Treasures is a private garden set within a subtropical outdoor and tropical indoor plant nursery. This tropical inspired garden has dramatic contrasting forms and foliage, large leaves and textures. Our love of aloes, cacti, agave and succulents add a taste of Palm Springs. While other areas have a tropical, British Colonial/West Indie style originating from the Caribbean. In spring the Japanese vibe is evident with all the maples and bamboo.
The sub-tropical take over is a labour of love and only six years old. Be amazed at what can grow and flourish at the foot of the mountain. Yet again, we have newaddition gardens to see from last year so offer more new spaces to enjoy.
Huge range for sale as well as tropical indoor & outdoor plants, pots and ornaments, landscape products and more.
Event: Mitre 10 Speaker Series (see page 64)
Open 10am-3pm during the festival, Free admission P 021 186 2025 E shanesharolyn@hotmail.com W tropicaltreasures.co.nz
Tropical_treasures_taranaki_
What's On?
1 - 10 November Pop-up artist studio and exhibition by Jana Branca in the Rātā Room. Supported by Percy Thomson Gallery. 10am4pm.
2 November and 9 November Artist floor talk by Jana Branca in the Rātā Room. 10am start. *Free event
6 November Fine art workshop with Jana Branca in the Rātā Room. 10.30am-12pm. Please email jbranca.art@gmail.com to make your booking.
6 November Guided tour with Rhododendron Collections Officer. 10am-11.30am.
Everyday Metal sculpture exhibition by Nathan Hull Sculpture and Destine Hull in the Keiller Garden.
Every day Guided walking tour. 2pm.
Every day Mobility vehicle rides. 10am-1pm. No booking required.
Every day The Rainforest Eatery is open 8.30am-4pm during the festival.
Pukeiti is open all day every day with free entry for all. It is owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council.
Pukeiti 29.
2290 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth, 4374
Taranaki Regional Council
Over seven decades Pukeiti has built up one of the world’s biggest and most diverse rhododendron collections. Along with other exotics, they create an explosion of colour amidst lush native rainforest and beside mountain streams. The 360ha property also boasts an all-weather visitor centre and walking tracks for all fitness levels. Other highlights include the covered vireya houses, the treetop viewing platform over the waterwheel and the popular Rainforest Eatery.
Open All day, every day. Free admission.
P 0800 736 222 E regionalgardens@trc.govt.nz W trc.govt.nz
@pukeiti_nz
PukeitiGardens
Fine dining, a gift of wine… just divine.
During the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival, book dinner at The Orangery in New Plymouth and receive a complimentary glass of wine with your main meal.
At the Plymouth International, we are proud to host the Festival Hub for this stunning garden celebration. You can also join us for Devonshire teas or indulge in bubbles and canapes, while the Hub is open.
discover divine dining
Indulge in a two-course lunch with wine pairing. $50 per person, available from 12-2pm! Bookings preferred. Only available during the festival.
LONG TIME SUPPORTERS OF THE CENTURIA TARANAKI GARDEN FESTIVAL
Your destination for fashion, lifestyle, and beauty.
Home to more than 50 specialty and big brand stores, Taranaki’s only indoor foodcourt, and 24/7 parking in the CBD.
centre-city.co.nz 11 Gill St, New Plymouth, Taranaki 06 759 4390
Don’t miss any of our promotions, events, and offers.
21 Dec 2024 - 26 Jan 2025
TREE SPECIALISTS
Richard Lambert ACA
Ph: (06) 76-96-828 / 0275-418-788
Email: richard@highfrontiers.co.nz
• Quality tree pruning
• Technical and confined space removals
• Hazardous Trees
• Large tree specialists
• Taranaki wide (urban and rural)
• Approved contractor to NPDC
“Committed to the highest quality workmanship, professional integrity and care of the urban forest”
Warea
Warea is a small settlement 35km south-west of New Plymouth and is home to world-class surf break Stent Road.
Goodin Country Garden
158 Mirikau Rd, Warea, 4381
Chris & Steak Goodin
Set amidst old coastal lahars, large volcanic rocks lend drama to this country garden. Spacious lawns spread out from the family home—the central anchor of the property. Mature trees are surrounded by lush plantings of clivia, roses and rhododendrons. Chris and Steak’s daughter, Nicci Goodin, is a prominent New Plymouth florist and much of the planting is with her creativity in mind.
There is plenty of room for a picnic, or take some time out to relax and enjoy a Devonshire Tea.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 06 752 8160 M 027 471 9744 E jgoodin@farmside.co.nz
5 Ekuarangi Pl, Ōakura, 4374 Philippa Holman & Wayne Looker
Nestled below the Kaitake Ranges, this one-acre garden with coastal views has been developed from a bare paddock (Te Pātiki) over the last seven years. Formal lines of hedging and shelter contain informal lush plantings of flowering shrubs, perennials, herbs and fruit trees. Other features include a walipini (sunken-earth greenhouse), a small pottery studio and a wall garden.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 461 5685 E philippa.holman@gmail.com
Hāwera
Relax in one the town’s picturesque parks or visit the famed Tawhiti Museum with its life-size figures.
79 Lower Normanby Rd, Manaia, 4678
Jenny & Guy Oakley
Festival stalwart and trained horticulturist Jenny Oakley has had her garden open for the full 37 years. Just 2km from the exposed coastline, her towering shelter-belt hedges are an important characteristic for the thriving garden. Features include brick walls and pillars, cottage style plantings, early flowering roses, a vegetable potager and the remarkable hanging baskets for which she is renowned. Plants for sale, complimentary tea/coffee. Featured in Home and Garden magazine and NZ Gardener.
For the first time during this year’s festival, Jenny will have a selection of her bird photography available for sale.
Event: Mitre 10 Garden Speaker Series (see page 64)
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 06 274 8060 / 027 634 3784 E guy.oakley@xtra.co.nz
Gravetye 34.
60 Manawapou Rd, Hāwera, 4610
Jenny & John Pease
Gravetye is a formal garden that celebrates the simplicity of mass green planting. Wander along the mixed border, pass the sunken vegetable garden, the reflection pool and the laburnum arch, which all radiate from the house. The immaculate lawns are bordered by carefully designed hedging. You will also see sculptures, plantings of iris, roses and lavender. The garden was designed and planted by the owners. Ice cream tubs available. ‘Gravetye Garden Cottage’ is fully self-contained accommodation and sleeps up to three. Larger buses need to park on the street.
Open 9.30am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket (proceeds to Cancer Society Taranaki) P 06 278 5422 / 021 1760 820 E jjpease@yahoo.com
Sanderson Garden 33.
1961 South Rd, Kaupokonui, 4678
Elaine & John Sanderson
This garden is truly a sight to behold. Rated five stars by the New Zealand Gardens Trust, it is a must-see for any garden lover. From the expansive lawns, you can take in the stunning views of the mountain, while the winding paths offer a peaceful and tranquil walk. The unique sculptures and accents add a touch of sophistication to the garden, set against the vibrant garden beds featuring lush hostas, beautiful maples, and romantic roses. The views of Taranaki Maunga make it all the more special.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 499 9491 E elainesanderson1961@outlook.com
Tairoa Lodge 35.
3 Puawai St, Hāwera, 4610
Linda & Stephen Morrison
History and beauty combine to create the evergraceful Tairoa Lodge. Surrounded by sweeping lawns, towering kauri and pohutukawa. Tairoa Church Hall is open during the festival for its famous Ploughman’s Lunch overlooking the garden and expansive lawn. Artists-in-residence are locals Celeste Cole, Caryl Murray and Bianca Mitchell. House and Garden Tours and group lunches are available - book direct with Tairoa Lodge.
Event: Mitre 10 Garden Speaker Series (see page 63)
Open 10am-4pm, Admission 1 ticket
P 06 278 8603 / 027 243 5782 E info@tairoa-lodge.co.nz
W tairoa-lodge.co.nz
Sullivan Garden 36. 37.
283 Matangarara Rd, Hāwera, 4672
Peter & Neryda Sullivan
The Sullivan Garden began as an asparagus paddock and, over 26 years, has transformed into a curvaceous creation. This Hāwera beauty is plump with roses and rhododendrons (about 150) and ablaze with azaleas. During December 2023, many rhododendrons were cut back to improve plant vitality and views. Curved paths and clipped hedges provide definition and form, while sweeping lawns frame views of Taranaki Maunga. Cottage plantings, pots brimming with flowers and foliage, along with garden art, help create vistas throughout. This property featured in NZ House & Garden and NZ Gardener magazines.
Open 9.30am-4.30pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 292 6886 E nerydasullivan@gmail.com
Christiansen Garden
200 Ketemarae Road, Hāwera 4674
Steve and Kerry Christiansen
On the outskirts of Hāwera, Steve and Kerry Christiansen have created a semi-formal garden with manicured lawns and shapely hedging of many varieties. This one-acre garden, less than five years old, is dotted with rustic garden art, including Kerry’s birdhouses made from recycled materials. You’ll also see an avenue of espaliered fruit trees, a quaint blackand-white craft shed and greenhouse. Christmas crafts and garden art for sale.
Open 9.30am-4.30pm, Admission 1 ticket P 021 901 178 E christiansenfamily@xtra.co.nz
38.
King Edward Park
Cnr Upper High St and Waihi Rd, Hāwera
South Taranaki District Council
King Edward Park is rated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a nationally significant garden. The ancestry of the park est. 1902 is seen in its charmingly formal design. The lofty close-clipped hedges give shelter to abundant azalea and rhododendron collections. This garden has rose beds of both heritage and modern varieties, historic aged trees and a century old model boating pond. The bronze statue of Wendy, is the companion piece to the Peter Pan in London’s Kensington gardens. The 150-year-old cannon has long been a favourite toy for children, along with the pirate ship. Seek out some of the hidden features along pathways or bring a picnic to seated areas.
The Observatory, originally a tea kiosk capped with a band rotunda, is undergoing refurbished inside to become a park museum. (See event page 57)
Open All day every day. Free admission. P 06 278 0555 E contact@stdc.govt.nz W southtaranaki.com
39.
Glascroft
23 Scotland St, Pātea, 4520
Julian & Olivia Shimmin
Glascroft is a coastal garden informed by the arts and crafts movement in the grounds of a turn of the century villa. Inspired in part by Gertrude Jeykyll, 11 gardens rooms unfold before you. Key plantings include 120+ rhododendrons and 60+ roses.
Vista borders merge with the Norfolk Island pines and pohutukawa of the historic Pātea Cemetery.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket
P (J) 027 711 1828 (O) 027 242 6129
E jshimmin77@gmail.com
flavour!
with creativity and
The town centre is bursting
Welcome to Hawera
Keep your map handy as you experience Hawera’s scrumptious dining, exquisite clothing, beautiful gifts and fine art.
This town can lay claim to having eight buildings classified by the New Zealand Historical Places Trust.
Beechwoods
2313 Mountain Rd, RD 10, Tariki
Yvonne King & Adrian McLeod (ex Fairfields Garden Centre)
Inside the roadside fence is an enchanting garden embracing the past and present. The old Magnolia Campbellii and huge-trunked Rhododendron Arboreum Tomentosum are part of Sir Victor Davies’ original plan. Around the house, the old garden has been rejuvenated as a woodland. The new garden leads to a figure-of-eight path around a stream and features ornamental specimens and native plantings. Beechwoods is named after two ancient native beech trees, uncommon in Taranaki.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P (A) 021 190 7077 or (Y) 027 637 0145 E kings20@xtra.co.nz
Stanleigh Garden 40.
752 Dudley Rd Upper, Inglewood, 4386
Donna & Wayne Busby
This beautiful country garden has stunning views to the coast and mountain. Stanleigh Garden uses its elevated position to grow splendid hybrid rhododendrons that flower throughout spring. Hostas are used extensively as underplanting, while maples, hydrangeas and hedges create the perfect park-like setting punctuated by rustic fences. Sit in the enticing gazebo overlooking the large pond. A perfect place for picnickers complimentary tea/ coffee available.
Event: Stanleigh Garden High Tea (see page 54)
Open 9.30am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 027 350 2286 E wbusbycontracting@gmail.com
@stanleighgarden
@stanleighgarden
Open 9am-4pm, (Fri, Sat & Sun during the festival) Admission 1 ticket P 06 765 7338 NEW
37 Cassandra St, Stratford, 4332 Shirley Greenhill
This is a floral artist’s creation that cleverly incorporates a mixed perennial garden, shrubbery and a rockery with a bounty of treasures. The garden effectively uses different levels to draw you in where climbing clematis and garden structures create intriguing shapes in a small space. Mass plantings of trilliums, hostas, hellebores and brightly coloured rhodohypoxis are special features.
Plant books for sale at $2 each in support of the local King Edward Theatre.
Stratford's King Edward Park 44.
Cnr Fenton & Portia Streets
Stratford District Council
Stratford’s King Edward Park is a gem in the heart of Taranaki, showcasing the area’s unique history, a colourful array of plantings, and the Pātea Awa. Take the Three Bridges Trail spanning the river, wander along easy walkways of mixed exotic and native gardens and enjoy the McCullough Rhododendron Dell. Remember to visit the Malone Memorial Gates, built in 1923 to honour local Gallipoli hero Colonel William George Malone, who also invented the lemon squeezer hat.
Event: La Mer Jazz in the gardens (see page 53)
1054 East Rd, Toko, Stratford, 4392
Along the Forgotten World Highway
June & Colin Lees
This vibrant, colourful garden is framed by a canopy of deciduous trees. Rhododendrons and viburnums flower in profusion. Collections of hostas and heuchera interplay in areas of filtered light providing a sense of peace and timelessness. A range of different edging plants give definition to borders, many of which are filled with amazing iris varieties, peonies and special plantings. A new ‘berry house’ with five different berries and two currants has been added, alongside four raised garden beds. The Jane Downes ‘BeeHaven’ sculpture is a wonderful artistic addition. Simon Lees woodcraft is available to purchase.
Open 9am-5pm, Admission 1 ticket P 06 762 2847 / 027 955 5539 E colin.june.lees@xtra.co.nz
What's On?
Every day The Baking Co. Festival Pop-up Café in the Hollard Centre, 8am-2pm. Serving fresh coffee and fresh baked tasty eats and treats. Every day Guided walking tour. 2pm.
Every day Photographic Exhibition by Mark Harris Photographer. OCEAN + EARTH, 8am - 12pm.
Thursday 7 November Guided House Tours with Rhododendron Collections Officer, 10am - 11:30am
Hollard Gardens is open all day every day with free entry for all. It is owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council.
Hollard Gardens 45.
1686 Upper Manaia Rd, Kaponga, 4679
Taranaki Regional Council
This horticultural oasis of colour in the heart of fertile dairy country boasts an incredibly diverse plant collection of national importance, featuring many rhododendrons, azaleas and an extensive range of native and exotic plants. It’s built on the legacy of renowned plantsman Bernie Hollard, who established the garden in the 1920s. Year-round, Hollard Gardens buzzes with the sound of insects and birds feeding on seasonal flowers, fruits and seeds. Kids love the quirky playground in the family corner, with free barbecues on hand. A visit to Bernie’s home garden has lots of ideas for the keen home gardener and is well worth a look, along with the food forest and compelling visitor centre nestled amongst the trees.
Open All day, every day. Free admission. P 0800 736 222 E regionalgardens@trc.govt.nz W www.hollardgardens.nz
@hollardgardens
HollardGardens
Alphabetical Gardens List
YEARS CELEBRATING
Through the Pages: NZ Gardener magazine turns 80
Join NZ Gardener editor Jo McCarroll for bubbles, canapes and a wildly engaging romp through the magazine's archive. With the much-loved gardening magazine celebrating 80 years in print, Jo will share the best practical tips and tricks gleaned from the back issues, as well as reflect on New Zealand's horticultural history: from the rise and fall in popularity of certain plants, our changing attitudes to native flora, biosecurity and pesticides, and much, much more. As part of the ticket price, you will receive an early copy of NZ Gardener’s 80th anniversary special edition, included in an exciting garden festival goodie bag.
Date/Time Friday 8 Nov, 6-8pm
Venue Plymouth International Hotel 220 Courtenay Street
New Plymouth
Admission $75pp including a beverage and canapes. Cash bar available
Bookings
Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412
Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Glenbrook Vintage Train Garden Excursion
New Plymouth to Hawera - return
Steel yourself – a Glenbrook Vintage Railway train is making its way into the region during the Centuria Taranaki Garden Festival.
All aboard – you can book a day trip on the refurbished heritage diesel train from New Plymouth to Hāwera, where you will be taken by coach to visit four gorgeous gardens – the Sullivan Garden, Tairoa Lodge for lunch, and the Sanderson and Oakley Gardens.
Fast track – this outing will appeal to railway enthusiasts and garden lovers alike, but ticket sales are limited so book early to secure your passage.
This wonderful day excursion will be hosted by our very experienced local gardening expert Chris Paul and will depart from the Wind Wand rail crossing at Tasman Prospect, New Plymouth.
Please note the Glenbrook Station is not part of the day excursion
Date/Time Thursday 7 Nov, 8:30am-5:30pm
Depart Tasman Prospect, 90 St Aubyn Street, New Plymouth
Admission $125pp lunch not incl. $150pp picnic bag lunch incl. tea/coffee
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412
Bookings essential, limited numbers. Please indicate any dietary requirements. Service fees may apply.
Event Details
Your grandmother's garden –revisiting plants of our past
Fri 1 Nov, 11am – 2pm
Create your personal garden sketchbook
Sat 2 Nov, 11am – 2pm
Capture a native forest leaf with confidence
Sun 3 Nov, 11am – 2pm
Botanical Art & Nature Journaling
Join Jennifer Duval-Smith at festival garden Riverlea for relaxing and inspiring botanical art workshops for everyone – from beginners to dab hands.
On a mission to connect people back to nature and their own creativity, Jennifer is offering three workshops focused on plants from the past, creating your own personal sketchbook and capturing a forest leaf with confidence.
The professional botanical artist will also explain an easy strategy to sketch any plant accurrately. In her workshops Jennifer will teach you how to trick your brain into seeing more, guide you to create a nature journal page to capture your experience and share how to take the pressure off so you can enjoy yourself more freely when creating art. See event details above.
Venue Riverlea Garden
376 Corbett Road, Bell Block New Plymouth 4373
Admission $95pp - max 10 per session (incl garden entry, materials, morning tea)
Bookings
Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412
Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Twilight Tours
When the sun begins to sink, Terry Parkes, a celebrated Taranaki personality and Nice Hotel owner, will lead you pleasantly astray in a new festival event.
The Twilight Tour begins with bubbles and blinis at Nice Hotel, before heading to Hurworth Country Garden and Saxton Sanctuary.
The tour winds up at Nice Hotel for wine and canapes. Expect delicious food, fun and glorious gardens.
Stay on at the Nice Hotel for dinner – two course/ wine match - $80 per person. Bookings Essential.
Date/Time Fri 1 Nov & Sat 9 Nov, 5-8pm
Venue Nice Hotel 71 Brougham Street
New Plymouth
Admission $100pp
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412
Bookings essential, limited numbers.
Service fees may apply.
La Mer Jazz in the Gardens
The French café-style music of La Mer will float through three gardens during the festival. Pack a picnic and head to Kahikatea, Riverlea, and Stratford’s King Edward Park for gypsy swing classics led by vocalist Dominique Blatti. Sit at café tables or lay a blanket to enjoy a gorgeous garden swirling with mesmerising music. La Mer’s line-up also includes Bernie Schmid on guitar, Malcolm Alder on bass, Helen Griffiths on violin and Aaron Bosch on piano accordion.
Ce sera magnifique!
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov, 2pm
Venue Kahikatea Garden 61 Branch Road New Plymouth
Date/Time Sun 3 Nov, 2pm
Venue Riverlea Garden 367 Corbett Road Bell Block New Plymouth
Date/Time Sun 10 Nov, 1pm
Venue Stratford’s King Edward Park Rhododendron Dell Cnr of Fenton & Portia Streets Stratford
Admission Please pay garden entry where applicable.
Bring your chairs and picnic blankets and enjoy!
Forage Floristry Experience
In this fun and friendly workshop for beginners you’ll create your own unique wearable floral piece – with the WOW! factor. Learn essential floristry tools and techniques, including taping and wiring. Connect with nature and your creativity while foraging from the surrounds of a beautiful private cottage. Learn to see gardens and even suburban streets in a completely new light and discover simple ways to bring appealing touches of floristry into your home. Enjoy a delicious light refreshment while mingling with fellow flower lovers.
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov, 10am – 12pm and 5pm – 7pm Sat 9 Nov, 10am – 12pm
Venue Primrose Cottage 1806 Mountain Road Norfolk
Cost Day sessions - $60pp
Evening session - $65pp Max. 10 per class
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth. Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Stanleigh Garden High Tea
Treat yourself to high tea at Stanleigh Garden. Enjoy stunning picturesque views of the mountain and gorgeous garden while being undercover and lovingly looked after by garden owner Donna Busby and her volunteers. A truly old-fashioned high tea served in floral teacups and on tiered plates filled with delicious sweet & savoury treats.
The high tea is a fundraiser for the Marinoto Rest Home. Set up in 1971, along with the Inglewood Welfare Society Inc, this is a non-profit organisation focused on providing professional care, and a sense of family for the residents.
Date/Time Fri 1 Nov – Mon 4 Nov, 11.30am Fri 8 – Sun 10 Nov, 11:30am
Venue Stanleigh Garden 752 Dudley Rd Upper Inglewood, 4386
Cost $40pp (includes garden entry)
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth. Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers please state dietary requirements when booking. Service fees may apply.
Japanese Tea Ceremony
A traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony is an art, a spiritual ritual, and a symbol of culture. It is believed that this ceremony maintains a peaceful mind, washing away stress and fatigue. The Japanese Tea House in Taranaki was authentically designed, built and landscaped in the customary style. All materials and tradesmen, including the gardener were brought out from Japan by the owner, Mr Masashi Iwata, during its construction in 2009. Participate in this unique experience of a Japanese Tea Ceremony prepared respectfully by the skilled Tea Master.
Date/Time Daily 11am & 5pm during the festival
Venue Japanese Tea House 59 Dorset Ave New Plymouth
Cost $15pp, max. 10 per session
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth. Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Wellness Power Bowl Demonstration
With Wild Pear Kitchen & Black Gates
A plant-based café and an edible garden are joining forces to provide power to the people. Chere and Chesney from Wild Pear Kitchen are again working with Gill and Greg Miles from Black Gates, who are providing a tour of their garden along with teaching the art of creating a Wellness Power Bowl. Learn to assemble a nutritious bowl using quick and easy recipes made from plantbased superfoods.Think colourful hummus, wild weed pesto, seedy crackers, beetroot balls, crispy kale, turmeric tofu and tzatziki.
Enjoy a glass of wine or juice, a buffet feast of superfood salads and all the Wellness Power Bowl components. Vegan and gluten free.
Come hungry!
Wild Pear Kitchen is open Tuesday to Saturday, 7.30am to 3.30pm.
Date/Time Sun 3 Nov, 3 – 5pm
Venue Black Gates 6 Holly Oak Tce New Plymouth
Cost $100pp – max. 30 people (includes garden entry, platter demonstration and tasting, glass of wine)
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Audio Described Garden Tour
For people with low vision
People with low vision are invited to tour three festival gardens, including one garden from the Sustainable Backyards Trail on this tour. Where foliage and flowers, paths and plantings, will be described in detail.
Our professional audio describers will be there to guide you through our wonderful festival gardens. The bus tour, supported by Weir Tours, is a halfday outing, with a morning tea stop on the way.
Date/Time Tues 5 Nov, 9am–1pm
Venue Tour leaves from the Festival Hub at the Plymouth International Hotel 220 Courtenay Street New Plymouth
Admission $30pp (includes bus tour and garden entry)
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz. co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth. Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Juno Distillery Botanical Masterclass
Distillers and owners Jo and Dave James will take you on a journey from garden to bottle in this peek behind the scenes at the Juno Distillery. With many of their ingredients now grown onsite, take a stroll through the Juno gardens with an educational deep dive into the key plants and ingredients behind gin and Juno's sustainability culture.
We start the evening with a welcome cocktail, and canapés, and sample a range of delicious handcrafted spirits.
Date/Time Thurs 7 Nov & Fri 8 Nov, 5:30pm Allow 90-120mins
Venue 14 Sunley St Westown New Plymouth
Cost $79pp – max. 22 per class
Bookings Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Please contact the Juno Team at cellardoor@junogin.com if you have any dietary requirements.
Floral Art and the Stars
Floral art, star gazing, lunch-time concerts and a brass band will help celebrate the history of King Edward Park and its newly refurbished Observatory.
Organised by the Friends of Hāwera Parks, festivities at the Observatory include an opening day performance by the Hāwera Brass Band from 1-3pm on Sun 3 Nov. An exhibition by the Hāwera Floral Art group and the chance to learn about Taranaki’s southern sky. Check out the 1905 Cooke refractor telescope, installed at the Observatory in 1953.
There will be free lunchtime concerts from 12.30-1.30pm, 4-8 Nov.
Evening openings subject to weather – check the Hawera Astronomical Society Facebook page for details. See the Friends of Hāwera Parks' Facebook page for programme details.
Date/Time Open daily 10am-2pm
Venue The Observatory King Edward Park Cnr. High St and Camberwell Rd, Hāwera
Admission Free
Contact For further details
Miranda Cullen 027 571 8893
Marcella's Markets
On the edge of the garden and open daily during the festival, you can find Marcella’s Market. Grab your espresso coffee, snacks and hot food from the onsite café The Barrel, and peruse the hand-crafted, quality goods from local stall holders. Plants, produce and garden art will be on display including local honey produced from bees on the property.
To see the full list of what’s on offer visit @marcellapointnz on Facebook. The list keeps growing – just like a garden! The Barrel Full café amenities
Date/Time Open daily 9–5pm
Venue Marcella Point, 280 Mountain Road, Lepperton
Admission Free event, usual garden fee applies (one ticket).
Mad Hatter Garden Party
Raising funds for Conductive Education Taranaki
You’re invited to indulge yourself with a cup of tea and a slice of whimsy at our topsy turvy Mad Hatters themed Garden Tea Party.
All proceeds go directly to Conductive Education Taranaki, our local charity dedicated to maximising the ability in disability.
www.conductivetaranaki.org.nz/events
Date/Time Open Daily 10am-3pm
Venue Oak Valley Gardens 248 Junction Road New Plymouth
Details Tea, coffee, and home baked refreshments will be available for purchase in the Oak Valley Church.
Conductive Education Taranaki
E-Bike Tour & Treats
Pedal through a mix of walkways, streets, shortcuts and native bush to arrive at three urban backyards. Pick up growing tips, a little local history, and delicious kai and coffee. Bring your own e-bike (enquire for available rentals).
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov 9am - 1pm Sun 3 Nov 1pm - 5pm
Location Escape Coffee, 15 Liardet St New Plymouth
Admission $75pp (inc. kai, coffee, garden entries)
Bookings sustainablebackyards.org.nz
Electric adventure!
Full day hire
Get friends or family together and tour the region in style driving the latest electric vehicles. Recommended routes yet the freedom to choose. No fuel, just fun!
Date/Time 1 - 10 Nov full day hire available
Location New Plymouth pick-up
Admission From $250 per vehicle
Bookings sustainablebackyards.org.nz
Garden Festival Day Tripper
Got a good reason for taking the easy way out –become a day tripper.
Take a coach from north to south to visit five gardens, both new and old, along with a sustainable backyard.
You’ll visit Beechwoods, Sullivan Garden, King Edward Park in Hāwera (pack yourself a lunch to enjoy there), Sanderson Garden, Oakley Garden and The Commune, a market garden in the Sustainable Backyards Trail.
This new offering is aimed at non-drivers, people not keen on driving themselves and festival fans who want to explore gardens with others rather than alone.
If this sounds like you – become a day tripper.
Date/Time
Venue
Admission
Bookings
New Plymouth
$60pp (includes garden entry and transport, please bring your own lunch)
Booking gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 759 8412. Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply.
Guided Walks and Tours
Te Henui Cemetery
Guided Walk
Our dedicated Te Henui Cemetery volunteers will take you on a Colourful Characters Tour. Explore this heritage cemetery established in 1861 and restored by NPDC visionary Allan Jellyman and his team.
Date/Time Fri 1 Nov 3.30pm-4.30pm Fri 8 Nov 3.30pm-4.30pm
Venue Meet at the first roundabout inside the cemetery.
173 Lemon St, New Plymouth
Admission Free event
Fernery and Display House
Pukekura Park
Zealand’s most significant public gardens. Learn about the history and fascinating plants and discover hidden corners whilst on this tour.
Please wear suitable walking shoes. A medium level of fitness is required. The event will proceed wet or fine.
Meet outside the Bellringer Pavilion.
Date/Time Wed 6 Nov 9am-11am Fri 8 Nov 9am-11am
Venue Pukekura Park, Fillis St, New Plymouth
Admission Free event
This tour and demonstration will give you a first-hand look at what goes into creating the stunning displays in the Fernery and Display Houses. You’ll see colourful coleus, exotic foliage plants and elegant orchids.
Meet at lower entrance by the Fred Parker Lawn. Numbers for each Fernery tour are strictly limited to 20 per tour so registrations must be made to rose.hogwood@npdc.govt.nz in advance.
Date/Time Tues 5 Nov 11am-12pm Thurs 7 Nov 11am-12pm
Venue Fernery and Display Houses, Pukekura Park, Fillis St, New Plymouth Free event
Bespoke Sustainable Backyards Bus Tour
Full day tour
Relax and enjoy an array of hand-picked properties directly with Taranaki’s finest growers and makers. Be inspired, gain tips and enjoy beautiful kai during this informative tour.
Date/Time Fri 1 Nov 10am – 4.30pm
Capacity 20 (in 2 mini buses)
Discover Taranaki
Admission $225 pp Includes garden entry and tours to 4 sustainable backyard gardens, morning tea, lunch, and coach transport. Depart from the Festival Hub at the Plymouth International Hotel
Round The Mountain Garden Tour Extraordinaire
Full Day Tour
Join the renowned Alan Jellyman, horticulturist and author, for a guided tour of 6 premier gardens around Mt Taranaki.
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov 8.45am–5.30pm
Capacity 10
Admission $325 pp Includes garden entry and garden tours by horticultural specialist Alan Jellyman to 6 gardens, morning tea, catered lunch(with wine), and coach transport. Depart from the Festival Hub at the Plymouth International Hotel.
A Remarkable New Plymouth and North Taranaki Garden Tour
Full Day Tour
Join the renowned Glyn Church, known as The Constant Gardener and a prolific writer, for a tour around 6 exceptional New Plymouth and North Taranaki private gardens.
Date/Time Sat 9 Nov 8.30am – 4.30pm
Capacity 10
Admission $300pp Includes garden entry to 6 gardens and tours by horticulturist specialist Glyn Church, morning tea, catered lunch (with wine) and coach transport. Depart from the Festival Hub at the Plymouth International Hotel.
Bookings Essential
For bookings, venues and events visit: gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office, Cnr Powderham & Brougham Sts, New Plymouth, Ph 06 759 8412. Service fees may apply.
Jo McCarroll
Jo McCarroll has edited the country's biggest and best-loved gardening magazine, NZ Gardener, since 2010. She lives in an Auckland suburb on a section crammed with vege beds, fruit trees and flowers. A frequent and popular speaker at garden festivals and garden clubs, you'll often hear Jo on the radio talking about gardening. Jo is also the 2023 winner of the Horticultural Communications medal from the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture.
More recently, Jo authored the 2023 book, Vege Patch from Scratch, an inspiring, helpful guide to growing, and enjoying your own success in the edible garden. If you're a newbie on the growing journey, or a little along the track and keen to pick up tips and tricks, then this is one talk that you should attend. Demystifying, detailed and practical, Jo's down to earth, no thrills attitude to gardening will help get your journey started, or reignite the desire to grow your own.
Date/Time Thurs 7 Nov
Doors open 6pm for a 6.30pm start
Venue Mitre 10 MEGA 5 Vickers Rd Waiwhakaiho New Plymouth
Bookings Tickets available from www.mitre10newplymouth.co.nz
Admission $15pp - light refreshment and canapés provided.
A portion of the ticket price will be donated to Sustainable Taranaki.
Sustainable Taranaki inspires and supports people, businesses and communities to value the environment and to prioritise sustainability.
Mitre 10 aims for this to be a Zero Waste Event.
Books will be on sale at the event for those that wish to purchase.
Mitre 10 Garden Speaker Series
A Foraging Foray
with author Helen Lehndorf
Foraging advocate Helen Lehndorf can even make “weeds” sound enticing. The author of ‘A Forager’s Life’ will show you the bounty in your own backyard and out there, on the margins. She will take you on a foraging foray and share snippets of her latest book, which is teeming with tales and recipes for teas, tonics and tinctures. The Manawatū writer and teacher, who grew up in Taranaki, is passionate about land-connection, food localisation and resilience skills. Helen blogs about these, shares poetry in her first book, ‘The Comforter’ and her dedication to journalling in 'Write to the Centre'. Join us to learn about the extra goodness in your gardens.
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov 1-2pm
Venue Oak Valley, 248 Junction Road, New Plymouth
Date/Time Sat 3 Nov 11am-12pm
Venue Tairoa Lodge, 3 Puawai Street, Hawera 4610
Admission $20pp – max. 30 people per session (includes garden entry)
Bookings gardenfestnz.co.nz or TAFT Office 50 Brougham Street, New Plymouth Ph 06 7598 412, Bookings essential, limited numbers. Service fees may apply
Permaculture Food Forest
with Dee Turner
Take a walk around a permaculture urban food forest with gardener and teacher Dee Turner.
Learn how you can combine fruit trees, fruiting crops, perennials, root crops, bulbs and climbers into an enhanced foodscape that feeds itself.
Dee has done away with the conventional orchard and mowing. Instead, she grows plants in guilds around her fruit trees to feed them, keep bugs away and obtain a yield at the same time. Herb and edible groundcovers grow where grass once was, as well as alpine strawberries in profusion. Productive self-seeders sow themselves every season and perennial root crops don’t need planting every year.
There’s always food to harvest all year round with minimal weeding and pruning – a great solution for a busy lifestyle.
Date/Time Daily 11am
Venue 28a Trafalgar St, New Plymouth.
Admission Free event, usual garden fee applies (one ticket).
Mitre 10 Garden Speaker Series
Hanging Baskets Demonstration
with Jenny Oakley
Hanging baskets are fun and simple to do if you follow a few basic rules. You can create a spectacular combination of plants that you will enjoy for many months. Come along and learn about the tips and tricks Jenny uses when creating her spectacular baskets.
Hanging Baskets Demonstration
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov 1pm Sat 9 Nov 1pm
Venue Oakley Garden
79 Lower Normanby Rd, Manaia
Propagating Plants
with Jenny Oakley
Jenny will share gardening tips on how propagation is inexpensive and easy. This is a great way to get new plants from your own garden. Hear from Jenny as she shares her horticultural knowledge gained from years of commercial garden design and maintenance.
Propagating Plants
Date/Time Sun 3 Nov 1pm Thurs 7 Nov 1pm
Venue Oakley Garden
79 Lower Normanby Rd, Manaia Ph: 06 274 8060 or 027 634 3784
Admission Free events, usual garden fee applies (one ticket).
Shape Your Scape
with Shane Parker from Straightcurve NZ
Shane will be at Tropical Treasures showcasing Straight Curve Garden Edging, sharing why this product is great for the home gardener or Landscape Gardeners.
This product is excellent for easy edging installs or for those who like to get creative. Be inspired as Shane demonstrates how this range can be incorporated into a garden from edging, decorative retaining and raised beds or planters. View its many uses onsite and you can purchase or plan for your next garden project!
Date/Time Sat 2 Nov 11am & 1.30pm Sun 3 Nov 11am & 1.30pm
Venue Tropical Treasures 816 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth
Admission Free event
Let's Grow Bananas
A workshop with Vance Hooper
Bananas have been growing in New Zealand for more than 100 years – now it’s time to learn how you can add a taste of the tropics to your own garden.
Historically, growing bananas has been dependent on limited microclimates, but with careful variety selections and a few key cultural factors, the fruit – botanically a berry – can be grown more widely.
Vance will share tips on banana propagation, establishment and ongoing garden culture to get the best out of these fresh-and-fruity jungle beauties.
You can see various stages of banana growth throughout the garden and orchard at Magnolia Grove.
Date/Time Sat 9 Nov 1pm & 3pm
Venue Magnolia Grove
6 Mahoetahi Road, Waitara
Admission Free event, usual garden entry fee applies (one ticket)
Booking are essential, maximum 25 people per session. Please email enquiries@gardenfestnz.co.nz to reserve your space.
Cheryl's Tour with Cheryl
Burt
Meandering around Marcella Point with Cheryl the self-named “non-Gardener”. Her enlightening tour will explain her logic to the changes from last year to this including the latest garden projects, (there are quite a few) how she made them and why.
Included is the story behind the ANZAC inspired garden – truly moving.
Date/Time Daily 10.30am
Venue Marcella Point
280 Mountain Rd, Lepperton
Farmlands Klondike Gold Tours
with
Laurence Frost
Like the old miners in the Klondike, where knowledge enabled them to find the gold, we have Laurence Frost from Farmlands who relates to these great men.
Laurence, a qualified horticulturist with 40 years of specialising in propagation, will share his knowledge and huge enthusiasm on a tour of plant identification, potential problems and remedies.
Date/Time Daily 1pm, excluding Sundays
Venue Marcella Point
280 Mountain Rd, Lepperton
Admission Free events, usual garden fee applies (one ticket).
