Whangarei Quarry Gardens (Public)
Whangarei Quarry Gardens is an unusual public garden, because it is governed by a charitable trust and is operated as a community project. Dedicated volunteers and garden clubs undertake almost all the work, on regular weekly working days facilitated by the professional garden manager. Started in 1997, it is unlikely to ever be declared "finished"; so visitors will delight in viewing the progress made, at each visit.
The former rock quarry is a challenging site, but presents the gardeners with a wonderful range of micro-climates. The deliberately-chosen planting theme is sub-tropical; the planting philosophy is to work with nature – not against -- by placing the right plant in the right place and thus ensuring good results. A man-made lake is fed by two waterfalls; a rocky stream is crossed by footbridges and stepping stones; there's seating and picnic tables. Extensive rock gabions are a visual signature of the Gardens, and relate well to the heritage remains of the former quarrying structures.
Plant collections include Ficus species, including the spectacular Ficus dammaropsis or Dinner-plate fig. The Camellia collection includes more than 100 unique fragrant cultivars bred by the late Jim Finlay – these are best experienced on a warm day in Winter or Spring. There are extensive plantings of bromeliads, vireya rhododendrons, cycads, philodendrons, colocasias, hibiscus, and daturas. All of these, and more, contribute to a luxuriant tropical look that reflects the benign Northland gardening climate.
The Visitors Centre opened in December 2015, thanks to the hard work of volunteers, Trustees and interest groups, as well as the generosity of Whangarei District Council, the Lottery Grants Board, ASB Community Trust and many other donors. The Centre also houses The Quail Cafe, which is the perfect entry point to the gardens. You can meet for coffee and lunch before heading in for a walk through the old Quarry. Excellent food enjoyed in lush surroundings, it has fast become a favourite for locals and tourists in search of an excellent coffee before an outing.
Opening Hours and Tariffs
Open 9am – 5pm 7 days
Quail Cafe open 9am - 3pm Wed to Sun
Enter by Donation
Contact Details and Location
Physical Address: Russell Road, Whangarei
Phone: 09 437 7210
Email: whangarei.gardens@gmail.com
Website: http://whangareigardens.org.nz
Facilities and Amenities
