Our top picks on where to find picture-perfect blossoms
As spring arrives, our gorgeous coastal region is about to burst into a riot of colour as new bulbs poke their heads through the ground and cherry trees wow us with their beautiful blossoms. Here are some of our favourite spots to admire the new season in all its glory.
Te Puna Quarry Park
Tucked away in the hills above Te Puna, this former quarry is a wonderful place to visit year-round. But a re-awakening is underway around spring as rhododendrons, roses, fuchsias, irises, daffodils, wild flowers and much more, all begin to flower as the weather warms up. Enjoy incredible views across our coastal region and out to sea, and admire the sculptural art on display among the extensive gardens.
Te Puna Quarry Park, Te Puna Quarry Road, Te Puna
Robbins Park
Many locals will have lived in Tauranga for years but never paid a visit to Robbins Park. You’ll find it at the northern end of The Strand on top of a hill overlooking the waterfront and railway line. It has a wonderful rose garden which will soon be in full bloom (late October-early November). There’s also a lovely tropical display house with begonias and orchids to admire.
Robbins Park, 7 Cliff Road, Tauranga
Otūmoetai Railway Gardens
Beside the railway line on the corner of Ngatai and Otūmoetai Roads are row upon row of cherry trees that produce a magnificent display every spring. The mass of pink blossoms make the ideal backdrop for those family portraits or insta-worthy selfies and many locals make a special trip to this reserve and community garden for precisely that reason.
Otūmoetai Railway Gardens, 516 Otūmoetai Road, Matua
Greerton Cherry Blossoms
Nestled at the southern gateway to Tauranga, a mere 6-kilometres from downtown, lies the charming gem known as Greerton Village. Every year the town celebrates the Cherry Blossom Festival, captivating entertainment, stalls and live music.
Greerton Village, Tauranga
Whakatāne Gardens
This lovely spot, on the town side of the Whakatāne River stopbank between McGarvey Road and McAlister Street, is ideal for a spring stroll or picnic in the sun. You’ll find a beautiful rose garden, a scented garden, plus hundreds of bulbs, shrubs and perennials which will flower in the coming months. There’s also an authentic Japanese garden if you need to find some quiet solitude.
Whakatāne Gardens, McGarvey Road, Whakatāne