Pukeiti
★★★★★
Pukeiti is located adjacent to the National Park - on the slopes of Taranaki. It features many kilometres of well-formed tracks for either a garden walk or a longer adventure into the rainforest. Wonder at the beauty of the world-class rhododendron collection, sense the history and learn the stories of the land. Established in 1951 by Douglas Cook (of Eastwoodhill Arboretum), and others forming the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust, it is now owned by the community through the Taranaki Regional Council.
Pukeiti's flowering season starts in July when the first of the giants awake; large-leaf rhododendrons flowering amongst the rainforest canopy - one of the finest collections anywhere. Camellias and large magnolias follow. By October the garden is alive with colour from flower and foliage. Complementary herbaceous plantings, alpines, primulas, hostas and bulbs continue the display until the giant Himalayan lilies flower in December and fill the air with their honey scent. The hydrangea collection comes to a peak in mid-summer and on into autumn. Flowering a few times a year, the vireya rhododendrons provide year-round vibrancy and beauty in the undercover Vireya Walk.
The predator-free rainforest, complemented by the exotic garden, provides an excellent food source for the thriving birdlife. Come and explore and find the waterwheel, sculptures, swing bridge, treehouses and lots of information about the history of this fascinating property. There are also kids treehouse trail activity bags available for families with kids aged 4 – 12. The Rainforest Centre and the Lodge are available to book for functions and the Studio and Pīwakawaka Family Hut are available for those looking for accommodation – check out our website for information and to book. The Rainforest Eatery offers a selection of lunches and tasty snacks so visitors can relax and enjoy the panoramic views (check website for opening days).
Pukeiti runs a popular programme of public educational, creative, active and fun events in both the garden and rainforest. Owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council, it’s open all day, every day and entry is free.
Facilities and Amenities
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Children Welcome
Conference Facilities
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Open all day, every day with free entry
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From New Plymouth
Take Carrington Street out of New Plymouth for around 23km and Pukeiti will be on your right.
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Physical Address: 2290 Carrington Rd, New Plymouth
Phone: 0800 736222
Email: info@trc.govt.nz
Website: http://www.pukeiti.nz
