Botanic Gardens Tours and Activities

Extending across 25 hectares of hillside, Wellington Botanic Garden is a riot of colour and aromas, populated by everything from roses and camellias to sweet-smelling herbs. As well as the flourishing fauna, the garden is also home to water features, intricate carvings and decoration, and even a duck pond.The main garden is located near the Founders' Entrance gates and is where the duck pond is situated. The flowers here change season by season a particularly good time to visit is in springtime, when the garden comes to life with a variety of tulips.Head over to the Native Forest to see the oldest tree in the garden, a hīnau which is more than 200 years old. This section of forest is one of the most ancient in Wellington, dating from before the arrival of European settlers.Stroll through the rock gardens to the Lady Norwood Rose Garden, or follow one of the self-guided trails which include the Solander Trail and Sensation Walk. Print and braille guides to these trails are available from the Treehouse Visitor Centre.If you're visiting the garden with the kids, make a detour to the children's play area which comes complete with swings, slides and a safe, enclosed section for younger children.One of the major tourist attractions at the park is its population of glow-worms. These are most visible at night-time near the duck pond, particularly after rain. The garden's guided tours will provide more information on these intriguing inhabitants. Check the website for more details.Wellington Botanic Garden is within a short drive of the city centre. Alternatively, the cable car from Lambton Quay stops here every 10 minutes. There are also a number of bus routes passing the garden. If you decide to drive, a car park is located within the garden. The first two hours in the car park are free, and the garden is open every day from dawn until dusk.