Pukeiti hosts one of the world’s biggest and most diverse collections of rhododendrons and other rare and unusual exotics, creating an explosion of colour among lush native rainforest and mountain streams. The garden is stunning all year round; vireya rhododendrons provide vibrant colour and interest throughout late summer and autumn. In July, the enormous flower trusses of the large-leaf rhododendrons begin to bloom, followed by camellias and magnolias. By October, hundreds of exotics start to flower with herbaceous plantings and bulbs, and in December, giant Himalayan lilies up to 3 m tall fill the air with the scent of honey.

The Rainforest Centre sits at the entrance to Pukeiti and features a multi-media interpretation area, function space, eatery, and direct access to covered areas housing the largest public display of vireya rhododendrons in the world. It also offers panoramic views of the rainforest garden and coast, and easy access to a tree-top lookout over Pukeiti’s famed waterwheel. Pukeiti offers a range of garden walks from 35 minutes to two hours. This includes the Rhododendron Stroll (35 minutes), the Valley of the Giants Walk (50 minutes), and the Kids Treehouse Trail. It is possible for people with wheelchairs and pushchairs to enjoy the Rhododendron Stroll and The Valley of the Giants walk. More adventurous visitors can explore the rainforest tracks, which wind through the garden and into the regenerating rainforest with remnant pockets of mature forest and some ancient rimu trees.

Pukeiti is open all day, every day with free entry. For more information, visit https://www.trc.govt.nz/gardens/pukeiti