Your Guide to a Perfect Visit to Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton Gardens, a horticultural masterpiece with 18 Enclosed Gardens for the whole family to explore is a must-visit for any nature enthusiast.

Our stunning collection of Enclosed Gardens represent historical eras and cultures from around the world and provides visitors with a captivating journey through time and beauty.

Here's a helpful guide to make your visit to Hamilton Gardens as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

The Japanese Garden of Contemplation looking out over the pond in Autumn

Best times to visit Hamilton Gardens

Beat the Crowds: While Hamilton Gardens are captivating any day of the week, our peak times are 11am to 3pm daily. Early mornings on weekends offer a more tranquil experience. For a truly serene escape, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn).
Explore at Your Pace: With 18 Enclosed Gardens and outer gardens to discover, allow plenty of time to wander and appreciate the meticulous landscaping. A detailed map, available at the Visitor Centre, is your key to unlocking the garden's secrets. The map is available in English and Mandarin.

Getting to Hamilton Gardens

Superbly located close to the Waikato Expressway and nestled in the heart of Hamilton City, Hamilton Gardens are conveniently accessible.

We are located at Hungerford Crescent, Cobham Drive, SH1c, Hamilton, New Zealand.
For drivers, free parking is available at both Gate 1 and Gate 2 carparks. Consider using the Gate 2 carpark if you're looking for a potentially less crowded option.
If you’re heading north on Waikato Expressway, choose the Hamilton exit just north of Tamahere. Follow the signs to Cobham Drive/State Highway 1. Hamilton Gardens is clearly signposted.
If you’re heading south on Waikato Expressway, choose the Hamilton Gardens exit and follow the signs.
For people travelling by bus, choose the number 17 bus from Hamilton Transport Centre. The bus will drop you off at Hamilton Garden’s Gate 1 carpark off Hungerford Drive. Tour bus parking is also available at Gate 1.
If you’re walking or cycling, we recommend using the underpass on Sillary Avenue and parking in Hamilton East. With plenty of wide walkways to stroll or ride along, bike parking is found in both Gate 1 and Gate 2 carparks.

A family walking around the Mansfield Garden at Hamilton Gardens

What to wear to Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton boasts a temperate climate, making it a year-round destination. To make sure you’re dressed appropriately for each season, here’s a hint of what to expect:

Spring (September to November) and autumn (March to May) offer vibrant displays with comfortable temperatures. Bring a light jacket and sunscreen. You may also wish to bring an umbrella as these months can bring some unexpected rain showers.
Summer (December to February) can be warm, while winter (June to August) brings cooler days with crisp mornings. In summer, we recommend bringing a hat, drink bottle and sunscreen as the temperature can reaches early to mid 30°C. In winter, we recommend bringing gloves, a warm coat and jersey, as temperatures can often drop to zero in the crisp winter mornings.

Pack accordingly and remember, bringing sunscreen and a hat is a great idea, any time of year.

Level up your visit

Take a Guided Tour: Immerse yourself in the rich history and symbolism woven into each garden by joining a Guided Tour. Knowledgeable guides will unveil hidden stories and intriguing details, enriching your understanding of the gardens' significance.
Uncover hidden gems: For a touch of self-discovery, go on a self-guided walk with our Audio Guide. This helpful guide, available in both English and Mandarin is available from the Visitor Centre and provides insightful details about each garden's design and inspiration.
Capture memories: Don't forget to capture the magic! The picturesque landscapes provide endless opportunities for stunning photographs. Share your memories on social media using #hamiltongardens and tag us on your socials.
Keep it clean kiwi: Hamilton Gardens is committed to sustainable practices. Help us keep the gardens pristine by using the conveniently located rubbish bins and following the principles of the Tiaki Promise, a commitment to caring for Aotearoa/New Zealand as you wander through our expansive grounds.

Embrace the tranquillity at Hamilton Gardens

Hamilton Gardens is an oasis of tranquillity, a place to reconnect with nature, history, and culture and the perfect place to spend a day out with friends or family.

We hope these tips have helped you make the most of your visit to Hamilton Gardens, and send you on your way to experiencing the magic of our extraordinary gardens inspired by the world.

We look forward to welcoming you to Hamilton Gardens and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking for some insider knowledge? Check out our top tips for planning your Hamilton Gardens visit.