Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Photos

    The Garden

    The Visitors Centre opened in December 2015, thanks to the hard work of volunteers, Trustees and interest groups, as well as the generosity of WDC, the Lottery Grants Board, ASB Community Trust and many other donors. 

    Quail Cafe is the perfect entry point to the gardens, where you can meet for coffee and lunch before heading in for a walk through the old Quarry. Excellent food enjoyed in lush surroundings, it has fast become a favourite for locals and tourists in search of an excellent coffee before an outing.

    Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a community garden project created by volunteers in the forested western hills of Whangarei City. With the ongoing support of Whangarei District Council, Community Employment Groups and many loyal sponsors and friends, the once dilapidated quarry site has become a subtropical oasis for all to enjoy.

    With an annual rainfall of 1500-2000 mm per year and New Zealand's highest average temperatures, Northland possesses a truly subtropical climate. At Whangarei Quarry Gardens these climatic conditions, coupled with the sheltered and heat-radiating properties of a stone quarry, create an ideal microclimate for growing a plethora of native and exotic subtropical plants. 

    Perfect growing conditions aside, it has taken 16 years of sheer hard work and community dedication to grow Whangarei Quarry Gardens into their current form. The project has been a labour of love for the Northland community, created through the blood, sweat, and laughter of volunteers, supporting companies and other interest groups. 

    Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a wonderful work in progress - historically fascinating, botanically captivating, and a beautiful reflection of the power of community.

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    The Gardener

    Our dedicated volunteers come from all walks of life and offer a wide variety of skills to help the Gardens flourish. They meet every Wednesday morning and get stuck in to whatever tasks need attention. From weeding, mulching and pruning to liasing with visitors and helping in the office, there is a job for everyone! Cups of tea and coffee are on offer and there is always something to chat about. Our friendly team is our key asset and plays a big role in making Whangarei Quarry Gardens such a wonderful place for people and plants.

    Map

    Garden Details

    Address
    Russell Road, Kensington, Whangarei 0112, New Zealand
    Email
    whangarei.gardens@gmail.com
    Phone
    +649 437 7210
    Contact Person
    Operations Manager: David McDermott
    Website:
    www.whangareigardens.org.nz
    Hours
    Open 7 days from dawn to dusk for pedestrians / 9am-5pm for vehicles.
    Garden Size
    The Gardens are set over 60 acres and feature a lake, waterfalls, picnic areas, forest walks, a variety of gardens styles, and several historical remnants.
    Price
    Entry by gold coin donation.
    Brochure Available?
    Brochure available at the Information Board.
    Parking
    Parking available inside the gates between 9am and 5pm. Park in road-front car park outside these hours and walk in.
    Toilets
    Yes we have public toilets.
    Cafe/Resaurant Available
    Quail Cafe is the perfect entry point to the gardens, where you can meet for coffee and lunch before heading in for a walk through the old Quarry. Excellent food enjoyed in lush surroundings, it has fast become a favourite for locals and tourists in search of an excellent coffee before an outing.
    Seating
    Various seats throughout the Gardens. Picnic tables also available.
    Picnics
    Picnics welcome. Please take ALL rubbish home with you. No cooking on-site.
    Wheelchair Access
    Some areas accessible.
    Dogs Allowed
    No dogs, smoking or alcohol permitted on site.
    Children Allowed
    Yes!
    Weddings
    Whangarei Quarry Gardens is an ideal venue for your special day; a calm, green oasis yet only a few minutes drive from central Whangarei.

    There are several sites within the Gardens that are suitable for small or large ceremonies, with some parties choosing to come in for photo-shoots only.
    Other Facilities

    Whangarei Quarry Gardens regularly hosts garden-related events such as Plant Fairs, Garden Tours and Club Meetings. We also offer the opportunity to hold your private wedding ceremony within the grounds.

    After years of fundraising our new Visitors Centre and Cafe will be opening in late 2014. It will feature a meeting room, reception area, displays for visitors, public toilets, administrative office, and a fully catered cafe with outdoor seating area.