The Medieval Cloister Garden – A Vision of Paradise

Join us for an afternoon that journeys through centuries of garden history before stepping into the living story of Hamilton Gardens’ own Medieval Garden.

International expert Dr Annette Giesecke will present an illustrated talk exploring the evolution and symbolism of the medieval cloister garden – from the lush oases of ancient Persia and the villa gardens of Roman emperors, through to the quiet, enclosed sanctuaries of monastic Europe in the Middle Ages.

A specialist in the history and meaning of gardens and designed landscapes, Dr Giesecke’s work spans the ancient Mediterranean world, Middle Eastern influences on Western garden traditions, and the many cultural ‘uses’ of plants in antiquity – from the symbolic and religious, to the culinary, medicinal, ornamental, and technological.

Following the talk, you’ll be treated to an exclusive, behind-the-scenes tour of Hamilton Gardens’ Medieval Garden, led by Lucy Ryan, Director of Hamilton Gardens. With an esteemed career in museum and heritage studies – including roles at Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa and Auckland Museum – Lucy has been guiding the vision of Hamilton Gardens since 2021.

This is a rare chance to experience the garden through the eyes of the people who shape and care for it.

Come along to connect with garden history, honour Marilyn Yeoman’s legacy, and see the Medieval Garden in a whole new light.

Date: Friday 13 February 2026,

Time: 4.30pm–6.00pm

Location: Piwakawaka Room, Hamilton Gardens Pavilion Followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of Hamilton Gardens’ Medieval Garden (not yet open to the public).

Entry:  $20 waged,  $10 unwaged Entry covers both the talk and the tour. Please bring cash for payment on the day.

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes for the garden tour Weather-appropriate clothing for time outdoors in the Medieval Garden