Tudor Gardens, Hamilton Gardens. © Steve Clancy Photography

Hamilton Gardens: beautifully curated spaces inspired by the world

TAP FOR MORE INFO:

You know you’re fully immersed in the whole travel thing when you find yourself spinning around in utter disbelief, asking, ‘Where am I, again?’

Such is the case with the exquisite Hamilton Gardens, sited just a pebble’s throw from the centre of Hamilton proper.

The horticulturally inclined will be delighted that there are acres and acres and species upon species of plants; landscapers will revel in the far-sighted and enthralling design of the green – or at this time of year, gold – spaces.

Bridges and paths weave amongst surroundings so splendid you will be convinced you are on a country estate rather than anywhere near a state highway.

Melding with the splendour is a humorous touch of the almost irreverent: the gardens contain a botanical soup of English kitchen gardens, a Victorian flower garden, an Italian Renaissance garden and a Surrealist spectacle to name but a few, making this an educational, absorbing and continually surprising ramble.

The ability to stroll along the edges of the mighty Waikato River is the icing on the cake; it also ensures that, with the rest of the ever-changing attractions here, you’ll have a great time here whatever the season. She’s a beauty!

More stories like this

Find out more

Things to do

Waikato Kiwi Gems

Did you know that the Waikato Region has a hot water beach and pancake rocks? There is also an incredible wildlife sanctuary, ancient Māori heritage, a hidden sculpture garden and a church made from trees. Check out these 10 Waikato Kiwi Gems. Read the story . . . 

Find out more

Get outdoors

Get outdoors: 10 wonderful walks in the Waikato

From caves to waterfalls, mountain top vistas, riverside strolls and urban walkways, we've rounded up 10 unique walks in the Waikato region. Read the story . . . 

Find out more

Free things to do

Find gold-mining heritage in the Waikato

Explore the remnants of gold-mining history in the Waiorongomai Valley on the outskirts of Waikato’s Te Aroha.  Read the story . . . 

Find out more

Family fun

Balloons over Waikato: a showcase of splendour and colour

Balloons Over Waikato has been running for over two decades now, a showcase of splendour and colour, in the form of these beautiful flying machines. Check out the 2023 event from March 14-18. Read the story . . .