Visitor Information

Planning Your Visit

You can spend an hour, half a day, or more at Eden Garden.  Start at the bottom of the old quarry and wend your way up the meandering paths to the heights overlooking the garden and harbour, or just stroll on the level paths near the cafe.  We are close to the city with free parking at the front gate.

Getting Here

Getting here couldn't be simpler.  The beckoning calm of the front gate is just a ten minute walk from the hustle and bustle of Newmarket's shopping area.

During the Summer months, the Explorer Bus makes regular stops via its satellite service from the Auckland Museum.  Freephone 0800 4 EXPLORER.

We are a few minutes drive from the Gillies Avenue exit on the Southern Motorway.

Getting Around the Garden

The area at the front gate and around the cafe area is flat, allowing a comfortable stroll while enjoying the colourful and varied plantings.

The central most-visited area is mostly flat for easy walking and wheelchair access.  Elsewhere, particularly on the edge of the old quarry, some paths are steep and rocky and suitable footwear should be worn.

Umbrellas and wheelchairs are available from the Visitor Centre.

Highlights throughout the year

Spring

Thousands of tulips in full bloom for our annual Tulip Festival

Annual Tulip Festival - Late Camellias - Chinese Toon Trees - Rhododendrons - Taiwanese Cherries, a favourite of the Tuis - Bluebells - Clivias - Poor Knights Lilies.

Summer

Roses in full summer glory in the Perennial Garden

The Perennial Gardens are in full flush - Lilies - Hippeastrum - Gladioli - Brunfelsias - Gardenias - Hibiscus - Hostas - Hydrangeas - Fuchias - Leucadendrons and Protea - Pohutakawa, the New Zealand Christmas Tree - Vireya Rhododendrons

Autumn

Japanese Maples show their brilliant Autumn colour

Japanese Maples and other deciduous trees display their seasonal hues - Daphnes - Camellia Sasanqua - Vireya Rhododendrons

Winter

Magnolia and rhododendron flaunt their seasonal bloom

Camellia japonica and reticulata - Magnolias - Flowering Succulents - Hellebores

Year Round Interest

Waterfalls, ponds and natural rock formations

Tranquil areas for rest and respite

Lookouts offering magnificent garden vistas and views over the city and harbour.

Plant Sales

A variety of plants, many of which have been grown from cuttings of plants in the garden, is available for sale at the Visitor Centre.  All proceeds from these sales go towards the upkeep of the garden.

Group Visits and Tours

We welcome visits from garden and tour groups.  Guided tours with a member of the garden staff can be arranged.  Please call the Visitor Centre at 09 638 8395 or email us for more information.