Whangarei Quarry Gardens

Whangārei Quarry Gardens is a remarkable subtropical oasis nestled in the forested western hills of Whangārei. What was once a working stone quarry has been transformed by dedicated volunteers into a lush, community-driven botanical haven that showcases the power of collective effort and nature’s resilience.⁠

The site’s industrial past dates back to 1944 when Hardie Brothers established the quarry to supply aggregate for local roads. Operations continued until severe flooding in 1974 forced closure. The 25-hectare (about 60-acre) site was later donated to the Whangārei District Council and lay neglected for decades, overgrown with weeds and littered with debris.

In the early 1990s, visionary locals like Laughton King began advocating for its conversion into public gardens. The Whangārei Quarry Gardens Trust was formally established in 2000, and volunteers, supported by contractors, sponsors, and community groups, began the immense task of clearing the land.⁠

Today, the Gardens feature a stunning man-made lake fed by two waterfalls—one soaring 40 meters—along with a meandering stream, footbridges, and steppingstones. The sheltered, heat-retaining quarry walls and Northland’s warm, high-rainfall subtropical climate create ideal conditions for a diverse collection of native and exotic plants.

Highlights include a renowned scented camellia collection (recognized as a Camellia Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society), rare succulents, heliconias, and various themed garden areas.

Permanent sculptures, including works by artists like Chris Booth and Peter Brammer, add artistic depth, while historic quarry remnants—concrete foundations and steel fittings—provide a fascinating industrial backdrop.⁠

Visitors can enjoy forest walks, picnic areas, and peaceful viewpoints. A modern Visitors’ Centre, opened in 2015 and incorporating the popular Quail Café, blends with the environment while nodding to the site’s heritage.

The Gardens have faced challenges, including arson fires in 2005, major floods in 2020, and damage from Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, yet volunteers have repeatedly restored and even enhanced the landscape.⁠

Open daily from 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas and New Year’s Day), entry is by donation (suggested $10 per adult), with all funds supporting maintenance and development. No dogs are permitted due to kiwi habitat.

The Gardens hold a 5-star rating from the New Zealand Gardens Trust