The Hamilton Gardens was awarded ‘Garden of the Year’ at the International Garden Tourism Awards in France in 2014. It is no surprise that this place is extremely popular with free entry and about one million people visiting annually. The Hamilton Gardens are absolutely worth visiting if you travelling through the Waikato Region of Aotearoa New Zealand.
The Hamilton Gardens are themed and fall into five different collections. Within each of these collections are several gardens to explore and enjoy. These collections are situated on approximately four hectares which means you can spend the good part of a day here.
THE COLLECTIONS AT THE HAMILTON GARDENS INCLUDE:
The Paradise Collection is inspired by country and culture.
The Productive Collection is where you might find something edible growing.
The Fantasy Collection is creative by design.
The Cultivar Collection is for the true garden enthusiast.
The Landscape Collection is sure to inspire large scale ideas.
ANNUAL EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES AT THE HAMILTON GARDENS
There are many events hosted at the Hamilton Gardens every year. However, my favourite event has to be the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival. The festival goes on for a few weeks in February and includes everything from picnics to performances.
For a reasonable price you can take a guided tour of the Hamilton Gardens with a minimum of two people. You will find out how they were transformed from a rubbish dump to the paradise it is today. You will also find out which Hollywood blockbuster was filmed here.
If you want to experience Hamilton City from the mighty Waikato River you can take a river cruise on the Waikato Explorer boarding at the Hamilton Gardens.
FACILITIES AT THE HAMILTON GARDENS
This is a very popular location for weddings with the many beautiful backdrops on offer. There is also venue hire for functions, a cafe and a restaurant.
HOW TO GET TO THE HAMILTON GARDENS
The gardens are located halfway between Auckland and Rotorua, not too far from Waitomo, and only 45 minutes from Hobbiton. Click here to get better directions.
OTHER ATTRACTIONS WORTH VISITING IN THE WAIKATO:
Hobbiton – Home of The Shire from the Lord of the Rings and Hobbiton Movies
Waitomo Caves – Explore the famous glow-worm caves with guided tours
Raglan – A West Coast beach town with one of the best surf beaches in New Zealand
Balloons Over Waikato – New Zealand’s premiere hot air balloon festival is a five-day event held in Hamilton at the end of March every year.
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Never forget You Only Live Once, Karllie 🙂
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