Heritage Park Garden
PLANT COLLECTION
rhododendrons, kowhai, azaleas, trees and more
Heritage Park Gardens at Kimbolton remains true to its name and origins as a 4.5-hectare garden of specimen rhododendrons, trees, kowhai, and perennial plants collections. Mature specimens of the former New Zealand Rhododendron Association plant beds wind across the top lawns and landscapes dipping down towards five ponds.
Close to the Chalet are the Manawatu-Rangitikei bred hybrids; on the gentle eastern slopes New Zealand bred hybrids. From early spring to summer the ponds are resplendently draped in colour; far lawns adrift with daffodils; and the kowhai collection burst into flower. The plant richness continues around the ponds with notable tree specimens e.g. Davida involucrata, Cornus, Ginkgo, etc, and NZ bred Yeates deciduous azaleas, reflected in the still waters. On the terrace the scent of the R. Madenniii collection fills the air.
The stunning colours of Acers, Cornus, Magnolias and Elms light up the gardens in summer and autumn. Coniferous plantings of Metasequia, Podocarpus, Sorbus provide the framework for a contemplative winter walk as the large-leaved Himalayan Rhododendrons flowers burst open.
Heritage Park Charitable Trust runs and maintains the park to a high level. Heritage Park is a member and holder of species from the New Zealand Rhododendron ex-situ Conservation Project. Knowledgeable plant experts ensure the collections are being developed and renewed.
The work that has gone into making this beautiful park an astounding gem in New Zealand, a ‘must’ for overseas Rhododendron visitors and a pilgrimage for one’s able to visit from around New Zealand (Primrose Turnbull, 2025).
Facilities and Amenities
-
Map available
Children Welcome
Plant Sales
Tour Guide available - please book this in advance
Bus and Coach Parking
-
Dawn to Dusk all year
$10 per person, Children free
-
Heritage Park Charitable Trust
34 Haggerty St, Kimbolton, Manawatu-Rangitikei
022105 8732
secretary.heritagepark@gmail.com
