Check out the best green spaces and places to get your spring flower fix below:
Rhododendron Dell, Dunedin Botanic Gardens
Trust us, this is no ordinary bunch of blossoms. Tucked away in the upper reaches of the Dunedin Botanic Gardens, the four-hectare dell is a haven of giant Rhododendron bushes in every colour imaginable, intertwined with meandering paths through the foliage and picnic perfect lawns. A true inner-city retreat with the occasional glimpse over the city beyond. The rest of the gardens are also a delight to visit during the season, with a wide variety of floral displays and tranquil places to enjoy a quiet moment in this six-star Garden of International Significance. Stop by the retro croque-o-dile cafe with the umbrella roof for a cool drink on the terrace or an ice-cream.
Glenfalloch Gardens
Explore the wooded pathways of Glenfalloch Gardens on the Otago Peninsula, admiring its rhododendrons, azaleas, magnolias, fuchsias, plus a profusion of other flower species which integrate with native ferns, exotic imports and indigenous New Zealand trees.
Hereweka Garden Retreat
The gardens that surround this eco-lodge on the Otago Peninsula are a destination within themselves, featuring some of the last remaining original native forest on the peninsula as well as extensive planting and walking tracks throughout the property. Tucked away in a secluded spot in Hoopers Inlet, the gardens can be visited by the public throughout the year by arrangement and are well worth the trip.
Woodhaugh Gardens
A family classic, the Woodhaugh Gardens are something of a sanctuary, hidden away in the Leith Valley. The lovely green lawns, extensive playground, public paddling pool and BBQ area are surrounded by copses of tall trees, both native and introduced. The perfect place for a game of hide-and-seek or an ice-cream under the trees, there is no shortage of beautiful green spaces to enjoy.
Lan Yuan Dunedin Chinese Garden
The Dunedin Chinese Garden is a slice of old Shanghai in downtown Dunedin. Traditional and serene, the garden was built by Shanghai artisans as an inner-city haven for peaceful contemplation and features bridges, water features and a tea house,
Larnach Castle Gardens
You'll also find an enchanting garden around the grounds of Larnach Castle, which features stunning views of the Otago Peninsula. A wonderful array of manicured lawns, shaped hedges, unique displays and castle history can be found in this Garden of International Significance, where you can enjoy delicious high teas al fresco when the sun is shining.
Lady Thorn Rhododendron Dell
A hidden pleasure for those who love the tropical-looking blooms of rhododendrons and magnolias, the Lady Thorn Dell is situated in an historic quarry in Port Chalmers, 20 minutes’ drive from Dunedin’s city centre. A sheltered, secret garden with views of the stunning Otago Harbour and full of pathways and tunnels formed by mature plants.
Open Gardens
Take a peak into the fabulous flora and landscapes of some of Dunedin's most ornate and well-kept gardens through the Dunedin Open Gardens Association. By prior arrangement, you can stop into selected private gardens for viewings, each with their own unique appeal.
Blooms to Go
If you’ve got that spring feeling and want to share the love, pick up an expertly arranged bunch from one of Dunedin’s super-stylish florists. Those in the know, head to the chic Joseph Jones for contemporary handpicked arrangements RocknRosie for boho-inspired blooms, the gorgeous creativity and gifts at Fallow & Fox and Estelle Flowers’ old world charm and aromatherapy influences.