Hamilton Gardens
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Discover the wonders of 18 inspiring themed gardens at Hamilton Gardens, each telling stories from 4,000 years of human culture and creativity. From the ancient landscapes of Egypt to a modern 21st-century Concept Garden.
Rather than focusing on plant collections, at Hamilton Gardens the emphasis is on the different types of garden design. Traditional botanic gardens concentrate on plant collections, conservation, and research, while Hamilton Gardens has the unique concept of showcasing the cultural meaning and context of gardens over the past 4,000 years.
The 18 Enclosed Gardens share stories of past civilisations and diverse cultures, with each garden telling a unique story, reflecting the art, philosophy, and traditions of its time. Walk in the footsteps of Tudor England, step into surrealism, wander through the tropics, or awaken your senses in imperial China. These 18 Enclosed Gardens are an immersive journey through a living tapestry of human creativity, culture, and history.
Facilities and Amenities
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β’ There are a range of options to assist visitors with limited mobility. Please contact the Hamilton Gardens to reserve mobility equipment.
β’ Dogs are not permitted in the Enclosed Gardens or in Hamilton East Park Cemetery however they are allowed elsewhere on-lead. There is an off-lead dog exercise area near Gate 1 carpark. Assistance dogs are always welcome throughout Hamilton Gardens.
β’ Hamilton Gardens is a smoke-free environment. Smoking is only permitted in the car parks.
β’ Bring a reusable water bottle and top up at the free drinking water stations available in the gardens.
β’ Rubbish bins are provided throughout the park so help us keep things tidy by not littering.
β’ We encourage visitors to follow The Tiaki Promise as a commitment to care for New Zealand.
β’ Discover the magic of Hamilton Gardens with a tour. Guided Tours and Audio Guides reveal the beauty and deeper meaning of the spectacular gardens. Whether you're a first-time explorer or a returning visitor, join the knowledgeable guides for an enriching journey through the gardens. Learn about the symbolism behind plant choices, the cultural influences, and the stories behind each gardenβs creation. Choose a 75-minute Guided Tour, uncovering hidden stories and fascinating insights. Or opt for an Audio Guide and let the gardens speak to you. Take an immersive, narrated journey through the ages and across continents, from ancient Egypt to Renaissance Italy to the modern day. Multiple stopping points in every garden give you control over where to linger and which gardens you want to explore in depth. Available in English and Mandarin.β―Find out more here.
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β’ The Enclosed Gardens are open 10am to 6pm daily (last entry at 5.30pm).
β’ Gates at the road entrances are open from 6:15am and close at 9pm.
β’ Gallagher Visitor Centre and Hamilton Gardens Shop is open from 10am to 6pm daily.
β’ Admission to the Enclosed Gardens requires a paid entry fee for visitors who live outside of Hamilton, with children under 16 years of age free. More information here
β’ The wider parkland areas of the gardens, outside of the Enclosed Gardens are free. Everyone, no matter where you live, can continue to explore the bush walks, spot fish in Turtle Lake by the waterfall, walk through the rhododendrons, enjoy a picnic amongst the roses, visit the cafe, and play on the playground.β’ Free parking is available on site through Gate 1 and Gate 2.
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β’ We are only minutes from Hamilton central city on Cobham Drive SH1. Gate 1 and 2 entrances both take you to the main facilities.
β’ Coming from Auckland, Hamilton Gardens is 90 minutes drive and is located halfway between Auckland and Rotorua or TaupΕ.
β’ Hamilton Gardens is 45 minutes from Hobbiton and 1 hour from the Waitomo Caves.
β’ Catch a bus on Route 17 - Hamilton Gardens. The bus stop is at the main Gate 1 carpark.
β’ Walk or cycle alongside the Waikato River between Hamilton Gardens and the city centre.
β’ The best way for pedestrians or cyclists to cross Cobham Drive is via the Sillary Street underpass which comes out on the Governor's Green near Gate 2.
β’ Please remember to take all bags and valuable with you, or conceal them out of site, when parking in the carpark.
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Physical Address: Hungerford Crescent (off Cobham Drive) SH1, Hamilton
Phone: 07 8386782
Email: hamilton.gardens@hcc.govt.nz
Website: http://hamiltongardens.co.nz
