A Historic and Living Treasure
With over 150 years of history, Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā is a place where heritage, horticulture, and the uniquely Wellington landscape intertwine. Recognised as a Garden of National Significance and designated a Heritage Area, this 25-hectare sanctuary is home to diverse spaces and trails, historic plant collections, vibrant seasonal displays, significant artworks and events.
Long before it became a botanic garden, this land was an important site for Te Ātiawa of Pipitea Pā. It provided resources for food, medicine, construction, and bird harvesting, with the nearby pā at Pipitea and Kumutoto linking generations of tangata whenua to the area. Today, the garden continues to be a place of learning, connection, and inspiration for all who visit.
A Tapestry of Gardens and Collections
Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā is a mosaic of curated collections that celebrate both New Zealand’s native flora and exquisite international species. The Display Garden is a vibrant showcase of design and storytelling, transforming with the seasons to offer an ever-changing spectacle of colour and form. The Lady Norwood Rose Garden, established in 1953, features over 300 rose varieties, with each bed dedicated to a unique cultivar. From classic heirlooms to modern hybrids, this formal garden is a feast for the senses. Nearby, the Begonia House provides a lush escape into the world of tropical and temperate plants, where begonias, orchids, and exotic species flourish year-round.
Discover, Learn, and Connect
The garden isn’t just a place to wander—it’s a hub for education, conservation, and community engagement.
- Guided and self-guided walks – Stroll through themed trails that reveal the garden’s hidden gems and rich history.
- School programs – Hands-on, curriculum-based education connects students with the many uses of plants, from food to medicine.
- Friends of Wellington Botanic Garden – This passionate group of volunteers supports the garden through education, advocacy, and horticulture. They also enhance the visitor experience through guiding and events.
- Regular events – From Music Sundays to seasonal festivals, there’s always something happening to engage and inspire.
- Treehouse Visitor Centre – Nestled within the gardens, the Treehouse Visitor Centre is your gateway to exploration. Stop by for maps, garden insights, and a visit to the gift shop, where you’ll find botanical treasures and locally inspired gifts.
Experience the wonder of Wellington Botanic Garden ki Paekākā – where history, nature, and community come together. Plan your visit today! Visit us at https://wellingtongardens.nz/our-gardens/wellington-botanic-garden-ki-paekaka.