Hamilton Gardens, Hamilton

Hamilton Gardens is a verdant oasis in the heart of Hamilton, New Zealand, offering a unique and diverse horticultural experience that transcends a traditional botanic garden. This award-winning park spans over 54 hectares along the banks of the Waikato River, and has been enchanting visitors with its themed collection of gardens since it was first developed in the 1960s.

Unlike typical botanical gardens focused solely on plant collections, Hamilton Gardens explores the cultural significance and context of gardens over the past 4,000 years. It features an impressive array of themed gardens that transport visitors across time and space—from the tranquil Japanese Garden of Contemplation to the grandeur of the Italian Renaissance Garden.

Each garden is designed to reflect a specific historical or cultural tradition, with the Paradise Collection showcasing different civilizations' perspectives on paradise. The Fantasy Collection, on the other hand, delves into the imaginative and whimsical side of gardens, featuring the surreal and playful Tudor Garden, among others.

Hamilton Gardens continues to expand, with new gardens and features regularly being developed. The park is not only a place for leisure and admiration but also serves as an educational resource, illustrating the evolution of garden design and its importance in different societies.

Open to the public every day of the year, admission to Hamilton Gardens is free, making it an accessible attraction for all to enjoy. Guided tours are available for those looking to delve deeper into the stories and intricacies of each garden.