2027 NZ Gardens Trust Conference
Ancient Worlds to Living Landscapes:
Gardens of Waikato & South Auckland
8-11 April 2027 - Tickets on sale in November
Journey through the storied landscapes of Waikato and South Auckland, where ancient trees, visionary estates, and gardens of extraordinary ambition tell the story of a region shaped by both deep time and restless creativity.
Over four days, we travel south from Auckland through landscapes that range from the fantastical to the contemplative — from a living cathedral of trees to the world's most celebrated fictional countryside, from intimate private gardens to the serene grounds of a Buddhist temple.
Beginning at the Auckland Botanic Gardens and weaving through the Waikato, we'll visit gardens that challenge, inspire, and endure — some rooted in the ancient world, others carrying their landscapes boldly into the future. The journey brings us to Hobbiton for our Gala Dinner, where the gardeners who tend this remarkable place will join us to share their story, before we return north through some of the region's most celebrated private landscapes.
Please note: Buses depart from and return to Auckland Airport, with accommodation in central Hamilton. We explore the territory between on our journey — southward on Day One, and northward home on Day Four.
Frequently Asked Questions
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50% refund before 15 March, thereafter at the discretion of the Trustees.
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Registration is available to Members, Assessors and Friends of the NZ Gardens Trust
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We will be providing links to discounted hotel rates for the Novotel and Ibis in Hamilton.
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Registration includes garden entries, morning/afternoon teas, lunches, the conference dinner and conference transport.
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Buses depart from and return to Auckland Airport, with accommodation in central Hamilton. We explore the territory between on our journey — southward on Day One, and northward home on Day Four.
