Gisborne Botanical Gardens

Gisborne, New Zealand, New Zealand

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Gisborne Botanical Gardens is Gisborne's oldest reserve and a public garden in Gisborne, New Zealand, that dates back to 1874 when it was set aside as a public garden. The gardens nowadays occupy 5.1 hectares between Aberdeen Road and the picturesque Taruheru River, offering a serene escape with expansive grassy areas for picnics, various bushwalks to explore, and a romantic riverbank with tranquil ambiance. There are still many trees remaining from the early period, and the garden features diverse themed areas including the Australian Garden, Japanese Garden, Palm Desert Garden, NZ Native Bush Garden, and Riverside Garden. The park's highlights include a bird cage with beautiful birds (aviary), a cactus garden, picnic tables under lovely trees, and a large playground that families can enjoy. Although some maintenance is needed, the gardens remain a charming destination with beautiful native and exotic plants, and the site includes toilet and picnic facilities in adjacent parklands including the Gisborne Adventure Playground. The gardens are open 24 hours daily throughout the year, and dogs on leashes are welcome, making it a beautiful spot for a picnic and family recreation beside the Taruheru River.