With its mild climate and moderate rainfall, Taranaki is home to some of the country's most beautiful and distinctive gardens.
Wander the pathways of one of New Zealand’s acclaimed botanical attractions, a 32- hectare rainforest park called Pukeiti that lies at the base of Taranaki Maunga. Spring is the most colourful season in the park – look for magnolias and hybrid rhododendrons as well as native orchids and cobra lilies.
Also in Taranaki lies Pukekura Park, a huge area of water features, gardens and display houses. In summer, TSB Festival of Lights(opens in new window) lights up Pukekura Park with colourful installations and live entertainment.
Garden lovers should also make sure they don't miss Tupare, a beautifully distinctive garden only a short drive away from New Plymouth. Each spring Taranaki Garden Festival (opens in new window)sees gardens across the region open to visitors, with New Plymouth as the festival hub.
