Blooming world famous in NZ
Take a roadie to the rhodies at Pukeiti
Pukeiti is a 360-hectare block of temperate rainforest and garden at Pukeiti, on the lower slopes of Mt Taranaki about 23km from New Plymouth.
It was established in 1950 by William Cook who, inspired by the plants already there, saw it as the perfect site to show off the glories of the rhododendron, en masse.
It’s now the best place in the country – possibly even the world – to see this flowering shrub at its magnificent and natural best, and to marvel at the more than 1250 varieties.
Why go?
Because right now is the time to do a roadie to the rhodies. Pukeiti’s Vireya rhododendrons have been in full and colourful flower since last month. It’s one of the biggest and most varied collections of the species you’ll ever see and, when whole avenues are blooming, it’s a splendid sight, the bright colours set off by shiny leaves.
There is a lot more to enjoy, though, than just this star plant. At the entrance is the treetop walkway, which slopes and winds invitingly, giving long views across the park, as well as to the mountain and the sea.
There’s an education centre there, too, designed for young and old to learn about the plants, exotic and native, and their environment.
There’s a Treehouse Trail for the kids (and grown-ups), a tunnel to a secret garden to discover, a mossy waterwheel to admire, and grassy and paved paths to follow.
You can choose whether you want to explore manicured lawns, sculptures and neat exotic plantings, or wild and natural bush, complete with giant rata.
Insider tip
The time allowances shown for the many tracks around the reserve are very generous: non-obsessive gardeners can walk them much more quickly without missing out.
But don’t rush the drive to the reserve. It’s a narrow, winding road through the bush, and should be taken carefully. If mobility is a problem, a van does free drive-through tours of Pukeiti four times a week.
On the way/nearby
If it’s gardens you’re after, allow plenty of time to explore Pukekura Park back in town. It’s 52 hectares of botanical garden, native bush, lakes, waterfalls, bridges, and fountains, all of it irresistibly photogenic. It’s lit up at night during the Festival of Lights throughout the summer, is the location for
Womad in March, and is central to the 10-day Taranaki Garden Festival that begins this year on October 30, when 40 private gardens are open to the public.
How much?
Free entry, but it’s hard to go past the offerings in the Founders Cafe. Pukeiti is open all day, every day.
Best time to go
July is when Pukeiti’s rhododendrons start to flower, but if you miss them, there’s nearly