Taranaki Rhododendron and Garden Festival

Itinerary

30% Deposit Required on Booking.

DAY ONE                                       L, D 

Our journey today takes us from Tauranga to Taumarunui, with a relaxing morning tea stop along the way to refresh and recharge. From there, we’ll continue to Bradleys Garden, a tranquil botanical paradise in Taumarunui. This stunning garden showcases a diverse array of plant species, thoughtfully curated to create a serene and harmonious environment. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a delicious catered platter lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings. After lunch, a guided tour will offer insight into the garden’s unique design and captivating flora. Next, we’ll embark on a scenic adventure along the renowned Forgotten World Highway, a route famed for its breathtaking landscapes, winding roads, and charming rural vistas. Our next stop is the vibrant Cairnhill Gardens, framed by deciduous trees, features profuse blooms of rhododendrons, viburnums, and a rich mix of hostas and heuchera that create a peaceful, timeless atmosphere. Defined borders showcase irises, peonies, and unique plantings, complemented by a new berry house, raised beds, and the striking Jane Downes ‘BeeHaven’ sculpture. After a full day of exploration and natural beauty, we’ll arrive at our comfortable accommodation for the evening, The Devon Hotel, where a delightful buffet dinner will be served. Relax, unwind, and reflect on the day’s discoveries as we prepare for tomorrow’s adventures.

Today we discover the following 2 gardens:

Bradley's Gardens - Toilet and Lunch.

Cairnhill Garden - Toilet available.

DAY TWO                                       B, L, D 

Today we prepare to embark on a journey through a veritable Eden of flora and fauna. With a hearty breakfast fuelling our bodies and minds, we set forth on our quest to discover the beauty of nature in its fullest form. 

Today we discover the following 6 gardens:

Riverlea - Toilet Available 

Villa Verde - NEW

Waiongana - Lunch Stop, Toilet Available.

Kahikatea - NEW - Toilet Available. 

The Yews - NEW - Toilet Available. 

Hurworth Country Garden - Toilet Available.

As the day winds down, we take our leave from the last garden and make our way to the Devon Hotel for a delightful dinner.

DAY THREE                                    B, L, D 

As the sun rises over the horizon, we fuel ourselves with a buffet breakfast before setting out on our journey to discover five more wondrous gardens. We stop along the way at Fenton Street Arts Collective for lunch. 

Today we discover the following 5 gardens:

Pukekura Park & The Fernery (public park) - Toilet Available  

L'amour - NEW

Beechwoods 

Leonies Garden - NEW - Toilet Available. As a private person, Leonie asks that you don’t take photos or videos please.

Stanleigh Garden - Toilet & Complimentary Tea/coffee Available

As the day draws to a close, we return to the Devon Hotel for a convivial gathering and a delicious buffet dinner. With our bellies full and our hearts content, we retire to our rooms, dreaming of the delights that await us tomorrow as we continue our exploration of the beauty and magic of the natural world.

DAY FOUR                                      B, L 

We’ll begin our day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, preparing for our final adventures. Our morning will be spent exploring three more stunning gardens in New Plymouth, each offering unique beauty and inspiration. From tranquil landscapes to vibrant floral displays, these gardens promise a captivating experience.

Today we discover the following 3 gardens:

Te Kainga Marire, Garden of International Significance - Toilet Available

Tropics on Mangati - NEW - Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee on the decks and enjoy the view!

Magnolia Grove - NEW - Toilet Available

After soaking in the natural splendour, we’ll travel to the charming Awakino Hotel and Pub, where a delightful lunch awaits, providing the perfect opportunity to relax and refuel. With satisfied appetites and hearts full of memories, we’ll embark on our scenic journey back to Tauranga. As we approach the end of our tour, we’ll reflect on the many remarkable venues we’ve explored and the unforgettable moments we’ve shared. Upon arrival in Tauranga, we’ll bid each other farewell, carrying home inspiration for our gardens and a treasure trove of stories and friendships that will last well beyond our travels.