Hamilton Gardens welcomes school and education groups to explore our world of wonders. This page gives you everything you need to know — what’s available, how to book, fees, optional add-ons, payment options, downloadable resources, and FAQs.
What's available
- Free entry to the Enclosed Gardens for groups visiting from Hamilton schools*
- Heavily discounted education rate for school groups from the rest of Aotearoa. Fee covers entry to the Enclosed Gardens for all students, teachers and parent helpers.
- Fast-track entry: a team member will meet you at the Gallagher Visitor Centre to orientate your group and check you in
- No need to verify addresses or pre-print tickets
- Downloadable resources to help you plan
- Option to add a kura koorero for a deeper experience
- Available weekdays during term time
- Pay in advance or on the day
Fees for self-guided visits
*To qualify as a Hamilton School or education provider, you must be located within the Hamilton City Council boundary. If you are unsure, check the address in the HCC property search.
For more details on pricing, tertiary discounts and walk-ins see FAQs at the bottom of the page.
Non-Hamilton schools (Up to and including year 11)
Non-Hamilton schools (years 12 & 13)
Non-Hamilton tertiary groups
Small education groups (<20 people)
Add-ons
Add to your experience to make your visit more engaging. These are optional and subject to availability:
Activity sheets for younger students
Free
Garden Buds (ages 3–6) and Garden Rangers (ages 6–10). Download from the resources list at the bottom of the page. Printed copies can be requested from the Visitor Centre. Kids who complete a sheet earn a badge.
Kura Koorero
$7 per person in addition to entry fee (minimum fees apply, see FAQs for details).
A 60-minute talk in up to three gardens. Our knowledgeable guides bring learning to life by exploring deeper meanings and sparking imagination. Let us know in advance what your students are focussing on, and our guides will do their best to relate the content to your study topic. Charged for each person in the group (students, teachers, and parent helpers).
How to book
Email us at hamilton.gardens@hcc.govt.nz with:
- Your school name and location
- Age range and number of students
- Number of adults accompanying the group
- Preferred date and time
- Any optional extras you’re interested in
- A copy of your completed RAMs form, particularly if there is information regarding your group that would be helpful for us to know. You can download our pre-filled form below.
Payment options
If you need to pay a fee, including for any optional extras, you can:
- Pay online in advance via credit card (you will be emailed a secure payment link)
- Pay on the day at the Visitor Centre
Please let us know which is your preference when you book
Planning your Visit
Why bookings matter
- Secure education rates
- Streamlined entry and orientation
- Avoid clashes with other groups, events, garden closures or planned maintenance
- Ability to add optional extras
- Notice of your group and requirements helps us anticipate and plan for your needs
- Select your preferred payment method
Risk management
Download the pre-filled RAMs checklist (Risk Assessment PDF) and update it with your own details. Download the School health and safety info sheet and share with the adults accompanying your group.
Please remind students to stick to paths, be aware of uneven surfaces and water features, walk rather than run, and to be respectful of other visitors.
If you plan a scavenger hunt, please use the Outer Gardens rather than the Enclosed Gardens.
