Pukeiti Gardens and Rhododendron Collections

Pukeiti Rhododendron Garden Pukeiti Rhododendron Garden Orange Pukeiti Rhododendron Garden White

2290 Carrington Road, New Plymouth, Taranaki

Renowned for its Rhododendron Collection, and one of New Zealand's 'Gardens of Significance', Pukeiti is a privately owned 320 hectare rain forest garden and plant collection located between the mountain and the scenic west coast just south of New Plymouth.

Established in 1951, Pukeiti's rain forest setting, free-draining volcanic soil and mountain air provide the perfect micro climate for a wide range of plants that compliment the magnificent rhododendron collection.

Among the beauty you'll find various exhibition houses detailing the progression of the park, it's history, and it's world-class collections; enough to whet your appetite for a meal and a drink at The Gatehouse Cafe.

So when to go?

Below is a rough idea of which plants are in bloom during the four seasons:

SUMMER
December, January, February. Late season rhododendrons, vireyas, Cardiocrinum and Asiatic lilies, hydrangeas, iris, meconopsis, hostas, astilbes, primulas, herbaceous plants and natives.
AUTUMN
March, April May Vireya rhododendrons, hydrangeas, climbing rata, colchicum, Japanese anemones, autumn foliage colour, cyclamen.
WINTER
June, July, August Early rhododendrons, particularly big-leafs, Daphne bholua, mahonias, hamamelis, Camellia sasanqua and hybrids, vireyas, snowdrops, narcissus, crocus, pleione orchids.
SPRING
September, October, November Species and hybrid rhododendrons, evergreen and deciduous azaleas, vireyas, Camellia reticulata, magnolias and michelias, kalmia, viburnum, prunus, hostas, primulas, native orchids.

For further information on opening times, entry fees and park facilities, please see the official website