Butler Point
★★★★★
Nestled beside a quiet stretch of Far North waterfront, Butler Point showcases the country’s northernmost rated garden - a living legacy shaped first by retired whaler Captain William Butler, later by custodian Hubert Dacre, and lovingly tended by the present owners since the 1970s, the Fergusons.
A classic 1840s grade 1 listed homestead sits at the heart of the property, open for visitors, and closely embraced by a traditional cottage garden. This historic home is flanked by the harbour on one side and a natural rise of native bush on the other, creating a sheltered microclimate ideal for the garden’s predominantly subtropical plantings. Here, Dombeya, Azaleas, Hydrangeas, Tibouchina, Hibiscus mutabilis, bamboo plants, and bold Agaves, all flourish in vibrant harmony.
Beyond the cottage borders lies an old orchard and, nearby, a majestic stand of ancient Pōhutukawa (Metrosideros excelsa) that anchors the landscape with its dramatic sculptural presence. Particularly memorable specimens include a Pōhutukawa with a 12m circumference (one of the largest in the country), a splendid Magnolia grandiflora, a venerable Fig tree sitting at the water’s edge, and an equally historic Olive tree planted by Captain Butler himself in the 1840s.
The orchard contains a variety of fruiting trees such as Persimmon, Kumquat, Quince, Grapefruit, Tangelos, Cherimoya, and Lychee. Just a short stroll from the garden, visitors can explore a well-interpreted early Pā site - an evocative reminder of the region’s deep Polynesian cultural history - complemented by mature Pōhutukawa trees. The family urupā (graveyard) is the last resting place of Captain William Butler, amongst white irises, belladonna lilies, and daffodils.
Together, the garden, homestead, and museum, offer an immersive encounter with natural beauty and rich local history making Butler Point a destination at the northern edge of this country’s celebrated gardens.
Facilities and Amenities
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Open all year round by appointment only – charges apply (children under 5 are free)
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Follow SH1 southeast for about 14km.
Turn left onto Victoria Valley Road.
After 2km take first left on to Peria Valley Road.
After 2km take first right to stay on Peria Valley Road.
After 1.5km turn first left to stay on Peria Valley Road.
After 7km turn left on to Honeymoon Valley Road.
After 850m turn right on to Oruru Road.
After 8km turn right onto Backriver Road.
After 450m turn right to stay on Backriver Road.
After 2.5km turn left to stay on Backriver Road.
After 5.5km turn lright on to SH10.
After 3km turn left in to Hihi Road.
After 2.9km turn right to stay on Hihi Road.
6km and turn left on to Marchant Road.
Butler Point is located at the end of the road, 2km beyond the gate is a parking area.
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Physical Address: 31 Marchant Road, HiHi, Mangonui
Phone: 09 4060006
Email: butler.point@xtra.co.nz
Website: http://www.butlerpoint.co.nz
