Location: Northland Region
Top Things to do in Northland Region
Countries
The 6 Best Gardens in Northland Region, North Island
Ngāi Takoto, Ngā Puhi, Ngāti Whātua, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāti Kurī, Ngāti Wai, Te Aupōuri, Te Rarawa Te Roroa
Restaurants in Northland Region
1. Serafinas Park and Gardens
2. Botanica Whangarei
3. Waitangi Treaty Grounds
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 5,127 reviews
Waitangi Treaty Grounds welcomes you on a journey of the place where much of New Zealand’s history was shaped. An absolute must-do for all visitors to New Zealand, the award-winning Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a national treasure and tells our nation’s history of two peoples coming together under the Treaty of Waitangi, Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Enjoy an interactive full day experience in the two contemporary museums, powerful Māori cultural performances in the carved Māori Meeting House, insightful guided tours, lush native forest and gardens, art gallery and carving studio, traditional Māori waka (canoe), café and so much more, all with stunning views over the Bay of Islands. Hāngi and concert evenings are scheduled during the summer months – an intimate cultural experience not to be missed. The award-winning Waitangi Treaty Grounds is a must-do for all visitors to the Bay of Islands.
Reviewed By caitylouhall99
I really enjoyed my visit to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds last weekend, as it gave me so much new insight not only into local Māori culture and history, but also the importance of modern New Zealand’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi, and its ongoing significance today. I chose to do a “full package” at the Treaty Grounds, with a Day Pass to explore the beautiful grounds during opening hours followed by a Hāngī and Cultural Show at dusk. I first went on a guided tour of the grounds, which was a great introduction not only to the space but the historical lead-up to the drafting and signing of the Treaty of Waitangi. It was good that our guide didn’t shy away from some of the tough political questions asked about the Treaty or the ongoing controversies connected to it. I then visited the museum, which was beautifully presented and very well laid out. This was followed by the hāngī which, while obviously modified for tourists, was still an enjoyable introduction to an important part of Māori culture. The cultural show in the traditional meeting house was very moving and professionally presented by talented performers - it was an excellent, entertaining addition to an already very informative day (and I was particularly fascinated to learn that traditional Māori culture had always had a strong focus, even in song and dance, on the “realm of gardening”!).
4. Whangarei Quarry Gardens
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 446 reviews
Whangarei Quarry Gardens is a subtropical oasis created by volunteers in the remnants of a former quarry in Northland, New Zealand. The Gardens are open to the public and feature subtropical gardens, native forest walks, waterfalls, streams, quarry ruins, tunnels, a scented Camellia collection, a plethora of NZ native and exotic plant species and so much more... The Gardens are a work in progress and have been created through the blood, sweat, tears and laughter of volunteers, supporting companies and other interest groups. Entry is by GOLD-COIN DONATION, with all proceeds used to purchase plants and equipment. Thanks!
Reviewed By AnneRayn
This place is a great little quarry gardens to visit. All done by volunteers who have spent a lot of time and effort to get it looking this great. Lots of interesting plants and sculptures to look at.
5. Palmco Garden
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 23 reviews
The Award Winning Palmco Garden is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. This oasis of peace and quiet seems miles away from any town, yet Kerikeri Township is only a 5-minute drive away. Palmco Garden is a 'Garden of National Significance', and keeps inspiring many professional landscapies and hobby gardeners alike. Opening Hours: Tue - Sun 10am to 4pm
6. Wharepuke Sculpture Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 50 reviews
40+ selected sculptures set among 5 acres of award winning subtropical garden. The 1km of trail follows the sensitively displayed artworks emphasising the colour and textures of the plants. Sculpture media include glass, ceramic, wood, stone, sound, print, metal, plastic and a kaleidoscope. An experience for both plant and art enthusiasts. Gallery, Print studio, Cafe and cottages onsite
Reviewed By anabettley - Auckland Central, New Zealand
Was very glad I didn’t let other reviews put me off!!! Had a fabulous time wandering for an hour and a half. Enjoyed being led by the path..Lots to see and explore. Amazing growth, a lot of plants were labeled which was a plus too...I loved the wildness of the park, abit like a tropical jungle was fun to come apon the well placed sculptures. Think kids would like that side of it too. Will come back :)
