Honestly, Hamilton Gardens caught me by surprise. It’s one of a kind, not like any other botanical attractions we have visited. It’s an internationally acclaimed horticultural venue in New Zealand that tells the story of different civilizations, cultures, and their respective gardens.
Strolling through the 18 diverse themed gardens and the outer gardens is a perfect peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of life.
Located less than two hours from Auckland, we have visited Hamilton Gardens on a day trip and stop here nearly every time we head south.
In addition to a bit of history, it’s a great place to be enchanted by impressive and artistic displays and learn about what grows in my garden.
Some of the 28 gardens are exactly as I expected from their name, while others caught me off guard. While one could rush through the entire place in less than an hour, my advice is don’t.
From the serene Japanese Garden of Contemplation to the enchanting Surreal or Herb Gardens, the numerous themed gardens always take my breath away.
The best part? Admission to this botanical wonderland is completely free.
Visitors need to experience and enjoy Hamilton Gardens. Until you can get here yourself, we shared our experience below.
Hamilton Gardens: enclosed gardens
New Zealand’s Hamilton Gardens comprises 54 hectares. The themed gardens located in the enclosed section are free to enter during the day and generally closed at night.
We usually spend our time in the enclosed sections, strolling through one themed area after another as if journeying through time.
The photos below represent our favourite areas.
Paradise collection at Hamilton Gardens
The Paradise Collection is all about tradition. It includes the Indian Char Bagh, Italian Renaissance, Japanese Garden of Contemplation, the Chinese Scholars’, English Flower, and Modernist gardens.
- Indian Char Bagh
The original paradise garden, it’s an icon of the universe, therefore often called “the universal garden.” We were thrilled to see the bright colours blooming on our most recent visit. - Italian Renaissance
Sculptured and perfect, the Italian Renaissance, to my surprise, was my favourite of the gardens. With an emphasis on both Greek and Roman achievements, there is even a detailed statue of Romulus and Remus. This is just one style of garden that may be seen in Italy. - Japanese Garden of Contemplation
Often referred to as Zen Gardens, these dry landscape gardens represent the Muromachi era of Japanese history. With minimal vegetation, they are peaceful. - Chinese Scholars’
There is a similarity between the Chinese gardens we have seen around New Zealand and the world that is based on over 2000 years of tradition. This garden is no exception, from its winding pathways to its bridges. - English Flower
Inspired by the 19th-century arts and crafts style, we found this a peaceful place to stroll. - Modernist
Unique, the Modernist garden is fun, lively, and full of non-traditional shapes. In fact, to my husband, it was instantly reminiscent of a classic California backyard when he was growing up. From the kidney-shaped swimming pool to the Cape Cod chairs.
Productive collection at Hamilton Gardens
The productive collection represents different aspects of the relationship between people and plants. Impressively, the food grown here is donated to Kaivolution Food Rescue. This charity helps feed local people in need by providing fresh food.
The collection includes: Te Parapara, Sustainable Backyard, Herb, Kitchen, and Ancient Egyptian gardens.
- Te Parapara
Te Parapara is the country’s only traditional productive Māori garden on display. Our most recent visit was the first time we had actually been here when the kumara (Māori sweet potato) was growing. - Sustainable Backyard
A small garden at this public venue yet an example of a large backyard garden that demonstrates the principles of sustainable food growth. - Herb
Traditional and comprehensive herb garden featuring plants used for food preparation, cosmetics, perfume, and medicinal purposes. - Kitchen
An old fashion garden that I wish grew in my yard. Filled with herbs, fruits and vegetables, it is what every chef desires. Best of all, the signage helps to identify the plants. - Ancient Egyptian
At first glance, we wondered how this beautiful new garden belongs in the productive collection. The signage clarifies; it represents the celebration of the annual harvest and the flooding of the Nile in ancient Egypt.
Fantasy collection at Hamilton Gardens
The fantasy collection focuses on the relationship between gardens, fantasy, and art. It includes Surrealist, Picturesque, Tudor, Tropical, Chinoiserie, Concept, and Mansfield.
- Surrealist
A perfect name for this larger-than-life, bizarre garden. It’s one that needs to be experienced first-hand to be appreciated. Don’t forget your camera, especially if you are like us and enjoy posing for fun shots. - Picturesque
An 18th-century garden inspired by fantasy and a desire for wild romantic landscapes. - Tudor
This one had a more playful feel to it. The self-opening doors lead to the Time Court, with a bit of an Alice in Wonderland feel to them. - Tropical
There is something impressive about tropical plants growing in this sub-tropical climate. - Chinoiserie
This large open garden space incorporated a fanciful European interpretation of Oriental design in the late 18th and 19th century gardens. - Concept
The motivation came from two Maori whakataukii (proverbs) and map legends. The whakataukii on the wall reads, “He peke tangata, apa he peke titoki” (The human family lives on while the branch of the titoki falls and decays.) While the second whakataukii is on a pipe and reads, “Whatungarongaro te tangata toituu te whenua” (As man disappears from sight, the land remains.) - Mansfield
A picturesque classic early 20th century New Zealand scene, as described in “The Garden Party“, a short story by Katherine Mansfield.
Hamilton Gardens: outside the enclosed area
The gardens outside the enclosed area are more traditionally what is found in botanic gardens. They cover way more than half the grounds and include:
- Cultivar Collection: Rogers Rose, Hammond Camellia, Rhododendron Lawn, and a Victorian Flower.
- Landscape Collection: Bussaco Woodland, Valley Walk, Hamilton East Cemetery and Echo Bank Bush.
Where are Hamilton Gardens?
Hamilton is 125 km southwest of Auckland, about 100 km northwest of Rotorua, and 500 km north of Wellington. Located on the southeast corner of the city, the official address is Hungerford Crescent, Hamilton East.
Before you visit …
- Entry to Hamilton Gardens is free. Occasional tours are prescheduled, usually on the weekends. While pre-booking is not required, you can pre-book here.
- There is plenty of free parking.
- Open daily, the hours are:
- Information Centre and Shop: 9 am to 5 pm.
- Enclosed Gardens: open at 9 am and close at 5 pm (last entrance at 4.30 pm).
- Public toilets: 8 am to 5.30 pm
- Gates at the road entrance: 6.15 am to 9 pm
Taking a tour from Auckland to Hamilton Gardens and Hobbiton Movie Set
Calling all Lord of the Rings fans, this might be the perfect chance if you haven’t added the Hobbiton Movie Set to your New Zealand itinerary. It’s a long day, but for those short on time or those who simply don’t want to do the driving, this all-day tour may be for you.
First, travel to Matamata to tour Hobbiton Movie Set, the only remaining LOTRs set still intact in New Zealand. Then it’s off to Hamilton to explore the Hamilton Gardens on your own. A long day, but it’s a great way to enjoy some of New Zealand’s highlights. Reserve your tour here.
More about the Hamilton Gardens, New Zealand
- Winner of the prestigious ‘International Garden Tourism Award’ in 2014.
- Allow enough time for a meal or at least a coffee at the cafe. We often enjoy the outdoor seating overlooking Turtle Lake, although we brought a picnic for our last visit.
- We picked up a map at the Information Centre for a small fee, or you can click here to download a map.
- Weddings or other special events can be booked at the Pavilion.
- Adult entry tickets to the enclosed gardens is $20 for visitors from outside the area.
- We consider Hamilton Gardens to be one of the 9 best New Zealand gardens.
From riverside walks to exotic teas, there are plenty of other things to do in the city.
Read next: Enjoy an Auckland to Wellington Drive with These Stops
Kelsey
What a joy to read. You take such lovely photos which really capture the essence of the Hamilton Gardens. Your article really gave an accurate insight into the beauty and uniqueness of the place. They are one of my favourite locations to visit, and you are absolutely right, you certainly need to take your time here to explore and discover all that is so carefully cultivated. Have you seen the recent additions to the themed gardens?
Jessi
Wow! I have to say I have more often passed through or around Hamilton than actually visited it – but now I will definitely make a stop to see those beautiful gardens!
Travel Tuesday
We loved Hamilton, Rhonda and yur photos are lovely!
betty - NZ
It’s been a while since I’ve enjoyed Hamilton Gardens. Great images.
Esther
Oooh, these gardens are really cool! I like the modernist garden and Italian garden best I think. What a great day out!
Sarah
These gardens look gorgeous!! I especially love visiting ‘kitchen’ gardens haha. Will have to save this for a future visit to NZ!
Dora
Lovely photo what an interesting place, Hamilton garden.
Laura
What lovely gardens! I love the contrast of wild looking gardens Vs some very manicured ones too. And the colour of the water is beautiful
Lisa
Honestly…I learn something new every time I visit your blog!
I loved it!
– Lisa
Lady Fi
Those gardens are just amazing!
Marie-OR
The gardens are absolutely amazing…so unique! I really loved that yellow door! 🙂 Anyway, how interesting that the creator of Rocky Horror was from Hamilton also. Wow…that is enduring the test of time, too!
Ana Ojha
Hamilton Gardens look like a beautiful place to spend some time with nature. I really loved that yellow door and would love to get myself captured there!
Jim, Sydney, Australia
Beautiful gardens. I especially like the Tudor one.
italiafinlandia
What a beautiful place!
Lydia C. Lee
What gorgeous gardens – i was unaware of those sort of gardens in NZ (normally thinking natural beauty and adventure when I think of NZ tourism…). They’re fabulous! Great post!
stevebethere
What fabulous gardens so clever and artistic I liked them all but particularly the Tudor Garden,
Have an artistictastic week Rhonda and thanks for the tour 🙂
Obligatory Traveler
What a fantastic looking gardens. I love that they have a fun variety of themed areas.
Sharon
I love the bridge in the last photo. And the formal gardens are so pretty. What a fun place to explore!
Anna
I love the look of Modernist Garden. Will keep this in my list for next time I am traveling Nz. Thanks for sharing, great images too.
Michael
I loved the Hamilton Gardens and like you was pleasantly surprised! The Japanese one was definitely my favourite. Have pinned this so we can go check it out when we are back in NZ. Thanks for sharing!
Alexander Popkov
Nice, I like Asian style gardens. They hold a lot of authenticity, at least for a European eye. Would love to get there with my camera.
Kellee @ LifeAdventurers
New Zealand is one of the destinations we must visit soon so I’m glad I read this post. I was wondering what we could do while in Hamilton and these gardens look like a peaceful option! We always like a zoo or gardens to be able relax without needing to hit the beach.
Rhonda Albom
The biggest difference between the gardens and the zoo, is that the gardens are free. (and the animals, of course).
Elizabeth
Wow! That is an impressive garden, and the steampunk-like dirigible bringing plants from one part of the garden to another is amazing!
Rhonda Albom
I would love to see it actually flying and delivering the plants.
Luke Wilkinson
Yay! My home town <3 If you in NZ in February, head to the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival. All those enclosed gardens get set up like stages with plays, concerts and comedy. Its' been a few years since I was there last, but there's usually a big band over at Turtle lake.
Rhonda Albom
I have heard great things about the Arts Festival. Maybe this year we will get back. Hamilton is only about 2 hours from my home.
Anda
I really love manicured gardens like the Hamilton Gardens. We have something very similar here, in Pasadena. They are called the Huntington Gardens. Maybe next time you come to California we can take you there.
Kristen
I wasn’t expecting the gardens to be that beautiful! I’ll definitely have to check these out when I finally head to New Zealand.
Pat
Such beautiful gardens and sights to see! I sent your blog to a freind who will be tra eling to NZ soon
Joanne - Travel with Joanne
Well I never knew. The gardens look amazing. Will add them to my list.
Rhonda Albom
The gardens are amazing, and it was a surprise to me too.
georgie watts
WOW!
I want to go there…and take A MILLION PICS! Yet again, you’ve showed me something about my fathers birth nation that I wasn’t aware of! Thanks Rhonda!
Rhonda Albom
You really do need to come here to New Zealand soon.
Margarita
What a great idea to have differently-themed gardens! Like a brief history of the world tour in one place. I would much prefer to visit gardens like this to the uniform botanic gardens we tend to have in Australia.
Rhonda Albom
The Hamilton Gardens are quite unique, even in New Zealand.
Anisa
Wow, I love the gardens! I bet that guided tour would be really interesting. I am so terrible at gardening, so I think it makes me appreciate nice gardens even more.
Rhonda Albom
I would love to take a guided tour next time I visit. I am not one who likes to do lots of reading, I do better listening.
Soumya Gayatri
I love the concept of having all kinds of gardens in one place. Brought back memories of all the gardens that I have seen across the world. I would love to see the Hamilton Gardens some day. I had no idea there was something so beautiful in Hamilton.
Rhonda Albom
I had no idea there is something so beautiful in Hamilton either. 🙂
Emese
Beautiful gardens, I’d love to be there! Love your photos.
Rhonda Albom
And, there are many other beautiful areas to these gardens that aren’t featured here.
Christina
Hamilton Gardens looks lovely! It reminds me of the structured gardens you typically find in Europe. I’m as so surprised to learn that there’s such a grand garden in Hamilton.
Ryan Biddulph
Astounding how many free things you can do in New Zealand Rhonda. Amazing really. So many other countries base their tourism on premium/paid trips or locations. I still cannot believe the national parks are free. In the US we’re talking 10 to 20 smackers, for some of these breath-taking spots.
Ryan
Rhonda Albom
Very true. It is one of the things I love about living here, so much is free to be enjoyed.
Hilary
Hi Rhonda – looks to be a wonderful place to visit … and I can see I’d need a few days there. How magnificent the gardens look … let alone the rest of the area – definitely on the ‘wish list’ … thanks for the great photos and descriptions … love the Tudor one … but all of them – cheers Hilary
Priya Florence Shah
OMG! These amazing gardens plus the tour of Hobbiton just catapulted the Hamilton Gardens to the #1 spot on my bucket list. I don’t know when I’ll get to go to New Zealand, but it’s something I simply must do.
Sage Scott
Having never been to NZ (long at the top of my bucket list), I can’t help but insert European gardens as a comparison. From Monet’s gardens at Giverny to those that wrap around French castles in the Loire Valley. I see things that are similar — a curved foot bridge, a maze-like arrangement of shrubs — but the plants and environment are so very different from Europe. I bet this was an amazing experience!
Revati Victor
Wow! What blew my mind the most was the sheer variety of styles. My favourite was the Italian Renaissance Garden (especially the little statue of the wolf).
Jill Chapman
What beautiful gardens! And I certainly didn’t know that Rocky Horror’s creator was from Hamilton. I’ll never forget the first time seeing that wacky show! Or for that matter, the times since. It’s truly unforgettable.
Comedy Plus
What a lovely place and your photographs are fabulous. I would love to visit here.
Have a fabulous day, Rhonda. ♥
Alex J. Cavanaugh
The airship is really cool.
Such a unique gardens. Very immersive.