Bason Botanic Gardens
★★★★
Gifted to the citizens of Whanganui, Bason Botanic Garden has been developed from bare farmland since 1966. Extensive roading allows the visitor to tour the garden without leaving their vehicle while tree plantings, widespread lawns and modern conservatories have added a completely new dimension. A very moderate climate allows a wide range of plants to be grown, none more evident than the Norfolk pines that emerge into the skyline.
The architecturally designed conservatories were built with recycled bricks from a city theatre and house tropical plants, some interesting begonias and a collection of cooler climate orchids. A path lined with Phoenix palms leads to the Homestead Garden which retains the profusely flowering cottage garden style. There are views out over the Mediterranean garden displaying those plants which suit the locality so well, such as Aeonium, Aloe, Agave, Euphorbia and Echium. A picturesque lake fills the valley floor, a haven for wild life.
More recent developments include the staircase which traverses the Mediterranean garden that covers the Millennium Hill. The steps are lined with terracotta pots, and provide a direct route up to a lookout offering shelter as well as wonderful views of the surrounding countryside. The Alexander terraces are another recent addition. They step down from the flat lawn area to the lakeside walkway, allowing visitors to enjoy a different perspective of the lake and gain easier access to the gardens at the rear of the Property.
There is something of interest every month of the year. Walking trails lead visitors round the gardens and the original homestead. Experience the dream!
Facilities and Amenities
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Children Welcome
Free gas BBQ’s available
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Gardens open all year round 8am to dusk
Free entry
The Conservatory is open daily from 9am – 4.30pm
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From central Whanganui
Take Springvale Road out of the city for around 2km.
Turn right on to Tayforth Road.
Travel around 2.5km continuing on to Francis Road After 1.6km.
Turn right on to Rapanui Road and the Gardens are 4.8kms on the right.
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Physical Address: 552 Rapanui Rd, Whanganui
Phone: 06 349 0001 / 0274 400 871
Email: basonbotanicgardens@gmail.com
Website: https://basonbotanicgardens.com
