Gardens of the World

A grand dream has come to fruition at Gardens of the World. Originally a level apple orchard, the garden is landscaped to provide rolling mounds surrounding the more formal central areas. Native plantings from New Zealand, the Orient, the Americas, Europe, Africa and Australia are grouped according to their geographical regions. Avenues of Fraxinus excelsior 'Aurea' trees form a square at the garden entrance. Functions are held in an amphitheatre overlooking the pond, among other areas, which provides an overview of layered colour between the hedges. Ex-nurseryman Geoff Etherington began planting trees in 1990, with some rare African species his favourites.

Extensive reticulated water features include a stream with water flowing from the top rockery to a pond, crossed by three diverse bridges. Home to goldfish, ducks, white-faced herons, and kingfishers, the pond is edged with Japanese irises and native plantings. Three ponds feature fountains. Yew hedges enclose the herb garden with its beds edged in rosemary. Structures include a gazebo and rose pergola in the formal rose garden. The herbaceous garden also has a centre piece featuring bulbs, succulents and alpines. The Gardens are a popular venue for weddings and garden groups, with a mountain backdrop framing the various sections of the world which swirl around grassed areas.

Directions:

Travel to Nelson City. Take SH 6 south of Nelson. 5 mins south of Richmond turn left down Clover Rd. Gardens of the World just past Patons Rd on left.