Truly a garden like no other, Hamilton Garden sits beautifully in the Waikato Region of New Zealand. A combination of several public gardens it attracts more than 600,000 visitors and is quite an attractive place, hosting close to 2,000 events every year. Spanning 58 acres, it has 5 stories or garden collection; paradise, productive, fantasy, cultivar and landscape. Though a very popular spot, entrance is free and it is open from 7.00am to 8.00pm during summer and 7.30am to 6.00pm in winter.
What many don’t know is that this sweet smelling almost fantasy land was once a garbage disposal site. The first attempt to change this landscape commenced in 1971 with the Rogers Rose Garden and since then it was an all-new look for the area.
What makes the premises unique is its total disharmony from the traditional concept. Instead Hamilton Gardens explore the bond that or relationship that exists between people and plants. Also capturing the Maori heritage of New Zealand, it is home to the country’s very first traditional Maori garden; Te Parapara. Showcasing knowledge passed down from generation to generation in the areas of ceremonies and materials associated with food production and storage, the gardens contribute to the preservation of history as well.
The Landscape Garden is all about historic interpretations of what is considered idealised landscapes. This section includes Echo bank Bush, Bussaco Woodland, Valley Walk and Hamilton East Cemetery. The Cultivator garden focuses on plants that have been selectively bred for gardens. It has specimens like Victorian garden flowers, Camellias, Roses and Rhododendrons.
Paradise Garden is like a celebration of gardens from all over the world. Each section here represents a different country like China, Italy, India, America, England and Japan. Therefore one garden is completely different from the other. In contrast the Productive Garden as the name suggests has gardens that are useful. The section that transports you to a land like no other is the Fantasy Garden. The reigning themes here are perfume and time.
Another place that will definitely transport you is the Millennium & Copthorne Hotels NZ. It is one of the famous chains of New Zealand hotels. If you are wondering if it is one of the Hamilton hotels, then you are absolutely right.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.