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.
View MapThe 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
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.
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.