Wellington Botanical Gardens – Wellington

The Wellington Botanic Garden covers 25 hectares of land on the side of the hill between the suburbs of Thorndon and Kelburn, close to central Wellington. The garden features 25 hectares of protected native forest, conifers, plant collections and seasonal displays. With the nearby bird sanctuary we were also lucky to see the New Zealand Native Kaka parrot fly by and hear their calls in the tree’s while we strolled around the gardens.

Established in 1868, the Wellington Botanic Garden is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most significant gardens, showcasing a wide range of collections. Its historical importance is as notable as its breathtaking landscapes.

Expect to see an amazing array of beautiful, botanical plant species from all over the world as well as collections that pay tribute to New Zealand’s natural heritage.

Besides the delightful Kaka parrot, the garden hosts a variety of native birds like tui, fantails, and silvereyes, enriching the visitor’s experience with their lively presence.

In March 2024, two mature redwoods planted in the 1870s were removed due to damage caused by the Kākā parrots. The increased number of these birds has led to significant structural damage to historic trees in the garden.

The garden is open daily, with free entry. It provides accessible pathways, restroom facilities, and a cafe for visitor convenience, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.

Depending on the time you have see all the gardens available or chose from the selection of beautiful gardens as below:

• Succulent Garden
• Australian Garden
• Rose Garden
• Main Garden (including duck pond)
• Begonia House
• Native Bush (including trails)
• Discovery Garden

Visit the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, with its stunning selection of roses. Nearby attractions include the Carter Observatory and the Treehouse Visitor Centre, offering further exploration.

Visitors can also engage in educational workshops and guided tours that highlight the garden’s horticultural treasures and conservation efforts throughout the year.

The Gardens Magic concert series, part of the Summer City programme, celebrated its 44th year in 2024, continuing to offer free concerts and light shows, attracting visitors to the Botanic Garden.

In November 2024, the Wellington City Council announced it was considering demolishing the Begonia House due to unspecified safety concerns. The future of this historic structure remains uncertain as deliberations continue.

Tulip Sunday, a spring festival tradition since 1944, ended in 2023. The event was ceased in 2024 as the garden adopted a more sustainable planting scheme, prioritising environmental considerations over large-scale displays.