A stunning subtropical oasis created by volunteers in the remnants of a former stone quarry in Northland, New Zealand. This restoration project is a powerful example of the strength of a community that cares for their environment. The volunteers have created a truly magical place for visitors to enjoy.
Visitors Centre & Gardens
Open 7 days 9am - 5pm
The main entry to the Gardens is via the Visitors Centre, and by donation. Begin your walk here, where you can grab a map and refreshments from one of Whangarei's best - Quail Cafe.
Please respect that we have NO dogs or smoking in the Gardens. 37A Russell Road, Whangarei (map)
“To inspire our community with a landscape of beauty and life”
Book your one hour guided tour of the Gardens in our electric
Golf Cart. We can take up to 5 guests for a 1 hour tour of the gardens.
Perfect for visitors less able to manage the paths. Enjoy a tour of the entire Gardens, in comfort and with a guide taking you through the interesting history of the site.
1-3 people $30, 4 people $40, 5 people $50
Gift Vouchers are available - A lovely gift idea -
Enquire via email or at the main desk in the Visitor Centre
Email admin@whangareigardens.org.nz to book your tour.
(Please book at least 24 hours before the tour so we can book your driver)
Cafe Opening hours
Wed-Sun 9am-3pm
Enjoy a coffee and sublime treats in our beautiful subtropical oasis, nestled in the Western Hills of Whangarei.
Quail Cafe is the perfect place to meet for a relaxed lunch, just minutes from the centre of Whangarei. Why not treat yourself to some decadence before heading out to explore the Gardens? Yum!
"Te Wai U O Te Atakura -
The Milk From the Breast of Te Atakura"
Keri Keri based artist Chris Booth has spent the summer of 2017-18 in
the gardens creating his beautiful giant goddess. It is the 5th in a
world-wide "Vader" series that began in Denmark 20 years ago.
We are deeply honoured to have the only one in the southern hemisphere,
here at the Quarry Gardens.
Chris Booth says "The main living aspect of the sculpture is fungi, the greatest recycler on the earth and a vital organism for the health of the majority of plants and animals. In these living sculptures I collaborate with fungi. The fungi consume the organic material causing the
boulder to ever so slowly descend to the ground. Depending on the wood,
it could take 70 years or more. "
This sculpture is magnificent and sits beautifully in the gardens.
Thank you to Chris and Rata Kapa, who worked hard with Chris
through the summer to build Vader V. It was an honour having you
both on site, talking to our intrigued visitors as your
masterpiece grew out of the ground.
In December 2018 the Tutukaka Garden Club and Whangarei Quarry Gardens Trust unveiled a new sculpture in commemoration of Russell Fransham who passed a year before.
Russell was a passionate horticulturist whose contribution over the years to Whangarei Quarry Garden's (and the greater communitys' through his nursery) was significant. Many of our special sub-tropical plants came from Russell's nursery, and his knowledge and generosity towards the Quarry Gardens is something we are glad to acknowledge.
You can now visit this stunning steel sculpture, designed by local artist Peter Brammer, here at Whangarei Quarry Gardens.
Join the Quarry Community and enjoy the rewards...
Love the Gardens? You'd like to help but are not sure how? A great way to help is by becoming a member. It's only $20 per year and helps keep the Gardens growing. Your money goes towards buying new plants, maintenance of the tracks, buying plant labels and our educational signage that you may have noticed going up lately.
Members receive:
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A Membership Card - no need to search for donations upon entry anymore
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Quarterly Newsletters - stay informed about what's happening, and new developments.
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10% Discount of plants from Alter-Natives Nursery - NEW IN 2019
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Discounted entry to Sculpture Northland and Whangarei Garden Discovery
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Be among the first to find out about Special Events and Plant/Flower Sales happening at the Gardens
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VIP entry to workshops - surround yourself with like-minded people who love gardening and supporting our community.
