By joining the Friends of Hamilton Gardens, you become an active participant in shaping the future of this cherished green space. Together, we can cultivate a vibrant and flourishing garden experience for generations to come.
Support from the Friends of Hamilton Gardens
A Legacy of Support
For over three decades, the Friends of Hamilton Gardens have been the heart and soul of the community's dedication to these remarkable gardens. Established in 1988, this registered charity (CC23690) plays a pivotal role in promoting awareness, fostering engagement, and securing vital funding for ongoing development projects. Find out more about the Friends by visiting our About Us section.
Community Contributions
Through their tireless efforts, the Friends have contributed an estimated $8 -10 million to date. Since 2020 they have raised funds for features in the Mansfield, Surrealist, Concept, and Picturesque Gardens, the Hamilton Club Summerhouse, the Ancient Egyptian Garden, and Medieval Garden. Their key focus at the moment is raising funds for the Baroque Garden and the Pasifika Garden.
Friends Events and Activities
The Friends of the Gardens host lots of activities throughout the year, including:
- Matariki celebrations.
- Scarecrow Festival.
- Mansfield Garden Party.
- Medieval Faire.
- Regular plant sales (check our What's On page).
- Guest lectures and speakers.
- Garden Club.
- Social Events.
- Themed garden events.
Visit the Hamilton Gardens What’s On page or follow Friends of Hamilton Gardens Facebook page to find out more.
Member Volunteering Opportunities
Make a Difference
Are you passionate about Hamilton Gardens and eager to connect with like-minded individuals? They invite you to explore our enriching volunteer opportunities! Contact Gail for more information.
Embrace the Rewards
Volunteering at Hamilton Gardens offers more than just the satisfaction of giving back. You'll gain valuable experience, connect with a supportive community, and deepen your appreciation for these remarkable gardens.
Visitor Centre volunteers
Engage with diverse visitors:
Welcome our visitors at the Visitor Centre and offer support and assistance in navigating the gardens. Share your knowledge and enthusiasm, answer questions, and provide exceptional service.
Comprehensive training:
They'll equip you with the skills and confidence to excel in your role with thorough ongoing training programs. Contact Gail for more information.
Event and garden volunteers
Lend a helping hand:
Contribute to the success of various events held throughout the year. Contact Judy for more information and to register your interest.
Cultivate beauty:
Participate in weekly propagating sessions and monthly sales selling new plants that contribute to the Gardens' ongoing growth. The Plant and Propagating Group meet every week, contact Susan for more information and to register your interest.
Become a Friends Member
Become a Friend of Hamilton Gardens and connect with a passionate like-minded community dedicated to nurturing a world-class gardens experience. As a member, you'll receive:
- Annual Journal: Stay informed with the latest news and developments through an engaging annual publication.
- Regular Newsletters: Keep your finger on the pulse of the Gardens with frequent updates and insights.
- Exclusive Events: Be among the first to experience new garden openings and enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes tours.
- Local Discounts: Reap the benefits of special offers at participating retailers and the Hamilton Gardens Shop and Hamilton Gardens Cafe.
- If you had an active Friends of Hamilton Gardens membership on 1 May 2023, you’re entitled to a MyGardens Lifetime Pass. These are ready for collection at the ticketing window at the Gallagher Visitor Centre, just bring photo ID; no pre-registration needed. The team will take your photo and email address.
- If you joined the Friends of Hamilton Gardens after 1 May 2023 and live outside the Hamilton City Council boundary, you can get a 50% discount on a MyGardens Annual Pass. Visit the Gallagher Visitor Centre with your proof of address, photo ID, and Friends membership card, and the friendly team will assist you.
Make a donation
The Friends of the Gardens welcome all donations which go to further development of the gardens, and can ensure visitors can enjoy the magic of the gardens. If you would like more information about donations, ‘in memory of’ donations or bequests please contact the President.
Friends of Hamilton Gardens - Garden Club
The Garden club is a small informal group who meet regularly under the auspice of Friends of Hamilton Gardens. The group meet socially every 2nd Tuesday morning to enjoy visiting local gardens. mostly in and around Hamilton and to share and improve their gardening knowledge.
Friends of Hamilton Gardens AGM Agenda, Minutes and Annual Report
The Friends of Hamilton Gardens 2025 AGM will be held on 20 November 2025 at Hamilton Gardens.
Contact the Friends of Hamilton Gardens
Volunteer Manager - Gail Blackwell
President – Ralph Evans
Plant and Propagating Group - Susan Coubrough or Eileen Wilcox
Garden Club - Judy Holdsworth
Vice President – Carol Webb
Secretary – Judy Calder
Treasurer - Rob Braithwaite
Friends of Hamilton Gardens Committee members
