A selection of NZ gardens to visit
An exceptional wedding venue does more than just host a crowd—it orchestrates the rhythm of your entire day, seamlessly transitioning from the emotional weight of "I do" to the joyous celebration of the reception. The best spaces are purposefully designed to honour the ceremony, including 8 outdoor options and 3 indoor options. Offering picturesque backdrops like sunlit garden arches, sheltered vineyard arbours, or grand architectural framing that naturally draws every eye to the couple. Thoughtful layout flow ensures that guests move effortlessly from the vows to cocktail hour without missing a beat, while on-site versatility guarantees that rain or shine, the atmosphere remains effortlessly intimate and romatic.
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They are so good for the kids and adults it was like a world of wonder land with its hard worked products and tasty goods on the table. It might be made by hand, but you can tell it was worked on for months.
It is a must-see!
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
We were lucky enough to stay 3 nights in the B&B cottage on site at Aramatai Gardens (highly recommended!). Jill is a wonderful host and her garden is beautiful. The ponds, lovely trees, seating areas, and naturalistic pathways make this a very restful garden. We also enjoyed seeing the white geese waddling about, cute piglets in the adjacent paddock, and friendly farm dogs who greeted us warmly from over the fence. Jill’s garden is well worth visiting and I’d love to see it again in November/December, when the peonies and roses will be doing their thing.
"Thank you so much for your hospitality and your story was very inspiring and interesting and amazing all at once. Your property is so restful and delightful to wander around."
Fate would have it that Google maps recommended this road to Lake Taupō. I am an amateur vase collector but this blew my mind. Have seen glass blowing in Venice but this topped that. Walked away with 3 pieces but could have left with more. Intimate but yet expert artisans. Loved every minute. Thank you
Beautiful,intriguing and wonderfully cared for garden in Howick...full of lovely roses and plants. Val is a wonderful hostess and always thinking of her guests. The garden is easy to navigate with no steps/uneven lawn...crammed with points of interest and charm.
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
Such a magical and truly unique garden. Exploring the many pathways and features along the way is a delight - Jenny’s imagination and passion for her creation is infectious!
Gardens to visit is a collection of New Zealand's most beautiful gardens that open to the public.
