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The 8 Largest Botanical Garden in Palmerston North, New Zealand

Palmerston North, New Zealand’s verdant gem, boasts stunning botanical gardens where flora enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the beauty and diversity of the plant kingdom. These gardens, ranging from sprawling parks with exotic species to serene sanctuaries of native flora, offer tranquility, beauty, and a vital connection with nature.

Step into a world of botanical wonder and discover hidden gems waiting to be unveiled. Stroll along winding pathways, surrounded by vibrant blooms, and encounter exquisite collections of rare and awe-inspiring species. Whether seeking respite from urban life or nurturing a passion for horticulture, these botanical gardens in Palmerston North promise an unforgettable experience.

Top Botanical Garden in Palmerston North, New Zealand

Palmerston North (; Māori: Te Papa-i-Oea, known colloquially as Palmy) is a city in the North Island of New Zealand and the seat of the Manawatū-Whanganui region. Located in the eastern Manawatu Plains, the city is near the north bank of the Manawatu River, 35 km (22 mi) from the river's mouth, and 12 km (7 mi) from the end of the Manawatū Gorge, about 140 km (87 mi) north of the capital, Wellington. Palmerston North is the country's eighth-largest urban area, with an urban population of 82,500  (June 2023). The estimated population of Palmerston North city is 91,800  (June 2023).The official limits of the city take in rural areas to the south, north-east, north-west and west of the main urban area, extending to the Tararua Ranges; including the town of Ashhurst at the mouth of the Manawatū Gorge, the villages of Bunnythorpe and Longburn in the north and west respectively. The city covers a land area of 395 square kilometres (98,000 acres).The city's location was once little more than a clearing in a forest and occupied by small communities of Māori, who called it Papa-i-Oea, believed to mean "How beautiful it is". In the mid-19th century, it was settled by Europeans—originally by Scandinavians and, later, British settlers. On foundation, the British settlement was bestowed the name Palmerston, in honour of Viscount Palmerston, a former British Prime Minister. The suffix North was added in 1871 to distinguish the settlement from Palmerston in the South Island. Today, the name is often informally shortened to "Palmy".Early Palmerston North relied on public works and sawmilling. The west coast railway was built in 1886, linking the town to Wellington, and Palmerston North benefited from a booming pastoral farming industry. Linton Military Camp, Palmerston North Hospital, and the establishment of Massey University (in 1927) have reduced the dependence on farming due to more skilled workers, since the early 20th century. Popular attractions include Te Manawa (a museum and art gallery that includes the New Zealand Rugby Museum), and several performing arts venues.

Top Botanical Garden in Palmerston North, New Zealand

The Victoria Esplanade

  • Address: 1 Palm Drive, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (2952)
  • Phone: +64 6 356 8199
  • Website:
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Friday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
    Sunday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Longwood Gardens in Palmerston North, New Zealand
Longwood Gardens in Palmerston North, New Zealand

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Embark on a thrilling journey through the diverse array of Botanical Garden in cities like Hamilton, Christchurch and Wellington across the Oceania continents, revealing hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local business or a multinational company, these cities proudly display a rich tapestry of profesional services designed to cater to a wide array of preferences.

The 8 Best Botanical Garden near Palmerston North, New Zealand

Longwood Gardens in Palmerston North, New Zealand
Longwood Gardens in Palmerston North, New Zealand

Ongley Park

  • Address: Park Road, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.5 (169)
  • Phone: +64 6 356 8199
  • Website:
  • Opening hours:
    Monday: Open 24 hours
    Tuesday: Open 24 hours
    Wednesday: Open 24 hours
    Thursday: Open 24 hours
    Friday: Open 24 hours
    Saturday: Open 24 hours
    Sunday: Open 24 hours
  • Reviews:
    Kim OanhHoang✭✭✭✭✭
    2 years ago
    Amazing place to see cherry blossom ?. I was here in 2019
    David varley✭✭✭✭
    4 years ago
    Indoor cricket and outdoor loads of ground to play on has nets and toilets available
    Petrina Denton✭✭✭✭✭
    10 months ago
    It’s a sports feild next to the botanical gardens. Toilets available. Great walks very close and swimming pool
    Helen Mitchinson✭✭✭✭✭
    a year ago
    Well maintained public park adjacent to the Esplanade, it was ideal for getting the kite up. Plenty of parking on Park Road and trees around the edges.
    Steve Macbeth✭✭✭✭✭
    3 years ago
    Ongley Park is the centre of activity in Palmerston North. Something for everyone, there is always a game of football, rugby, cricket to be had! It is within walking distance of the riverfront trail and esplanade activities. It is a great spot for the family to burn some energy or walk the dog.

Takaro Park

  • Address: Botanical Road, Takaro, Palmerston North 4412, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.2 (62)
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Dugald MacKenzie rose breeding centre

  • Address: 1 Palm Drive, West End, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 4.7 (61)

Longwood Gardens

  • Address: 338 Stoney Creek Road, Kelvin Grove, Palmerston North 4470, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating: 5 (2)

10 Botanical Rd

  • Address: Takaro, Palmerston North 4412, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating:

Massey University Arboretum

  • Address: Fitzherbert, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating:

The Eco Gardener

  • Address: 45 Atawhai Road, Fitzherbert, Palmerston North 4410, New Zealand
  • Map: Click here
  • Rating:
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Thank you for reading! If you have any additional information on the best Botanical Garden in Palmerston North, New Zealand, please leave a comment above. We would love to hear from you!

5 Replies to The 8 Largest Botanical Garden in Palmerston North, New Zealand

  1. Great park for pretty much everything.
    River walks,bush walks, playground suitable for all ages with the toddler one away from the bigger kids.
    Plenty of toilets available with baby changing areas.
    Lots of parking but when big events are on they fill up quickly.
    The Esplanade cafe is good also.
    The bush walks are easy for all ages.
    Great ride on train service too!

  2. What a great park for the local area! My girlfriend and I first visited the river, which was spectacular, we then walked through the native bush walk until we popped put near the bird sanctuary. We were amazed by the greenhouse and then walked through the bird sanctuary. We made our way back out of the park through the enormous kids’ playground. Better yet, the whole experience is free of charge, and the park is meticulously maintained.

  3. Cherry blossoms, with their delicate white petals, create a stunning visual spectacle in early spring. The garden is awash in a sea of these blossoms, offering a breathtaking display of nature’s beauty.

  4. Very attractive place for both children and adults. Variety of things like garden, pool, train ride, small zoo, etc.
    The train ride was cheap and enjoyed very well.
    Good place for relaxing and entertainment.

  5. Came here a lot as a child. A Lived overseas for 45 years but always enjoy visiting when I’m back in Palmy. It’s a beautiful spot for walking, picnicking and watching the wee ones splishing in the children’s pool. Aviary section is a bit sad now but hopefully the birds who were there are living in a better space.

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