A selection of NZ gardens to visit
The latest garden to list on www.gardenstovisit.co.nz is Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple New Zealand in Flat Bush. The grounds feature spacious courtyards, stone-paved pathways, carefully maintained shrubs, traditional lanterns and seasonal flowers. In March, the delicate fragrance of osmanthus blossoms adds a special charm to the gardens, inviting visitors to slow down and appreciate their surroundings.
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Our visit to Rapaura Watergardens was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into another world — a peaceful sanctuary where nature is not just preserved, but truly honoured.
The gardens are crafted with incredible care and intention. Every turn of the path reveals something beautiful: tranquil waterfalls, crystal-clear ponds, lush native plants, and perfectly placed resting spots that invite you to slow down and simply breathe. You can feel the love and vision that went into creating this place. It’s not just a walk — it’s an experience that reconnects you with stillness.
What stood out the most was the atmosphere. There is a deep sense of calm here, almost meditative. The sound of flowing water, the birds, and the surrounding forest create a natural symphony that grounds you instantly. It’s the kind of place where time disappears and you feel fully present.
The staff were warm and welcoming, and everything is maintained to the highest standards
"Thank you very much for hosting the Matangi Garden Club yesterday in your gorgeous garden. Members loved the calm soothing environment. the space and the beautiful plantings. From the number of photos taken, you've inspired quite a few people with good ideas. You turned on a perfect day as well."
Hi Anne and Ron, Thanks again for the wonderful visit and afternoon tea on the 1st February, all our residents including myself had a great time. Your garden is just beautiful, it was wonderful to see all the love and care that you both put into creating it.
Many thanks for hosting our Garden Club last Wednesday. We enjoyed viewing your extensive garden, especially the guided tour and the knowledge you shared with us. I guess we also need to thank your husband. Many thanks.
It was the perfect canvas for our day, and we couldn’t be happier. Helen and Dean, the new owners, were excellent communicators—passionate, attentive, and genuinely excited to share their venue with us.
I just wanted to thank you for allowing my twin sister and me to visit your amazing property last week. What an absolute inspiration and delight you are Judy. You’ve kept that dream alive after your dear husband passed and I think it’s keeping you going!! We so enjoyed the experience, swapping our funny gardening stories and seeing your beautiful garden. The photos don’t do it justice but I created a post on my own page, The Uralla Garden. Hope you don’t mind. I used some of the photos from your website but captioned them as such.
Hope you are well and once again thank you Judy
Thanks so much for sharing your beautiful oasis with me.
It exceeded my expectations and the high tea was exquisite. You have inspired me to get on with my life projects!
Visiting Jules' tropical paradise is amazing. Her knowledge of tropical plants is huge. Each time I visit, she introduces me to plants I didn't know about and will even show me photos of the flowers on her phone. The nursery is beautifully landscaped and an easy walk around. Plenty of parking for cars and buses as well. Well worth a visit.
As always, I had a MOST MARVELLOUS time at Garden Marlborough. I learned lots, enjoyed the company of many fine folk and saw many beautiful gardens.
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
