Otari-Wilton's Bush

Wilton, New Zealand

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Otari-Wilton's Bush in Wilton, Wellington, New Zealand, is the country's only public botanical garden dedicated entirely to native plants, covering around 105 hectares of forest and cultivated garden collections.

The area includes ancient native forest with some trees, like an 800-year-old rimu, among the oldest in Wellington. Originally protected in the 1860s by local farmer Job Wilton, the site later became a scenic reserve and botanical museum emphasizing native flora conservation, education, and recreation.

Visitors can explore a variety of plant collections representing New Zealand's diverse ecosystems, including alpine, coastal, and fernery gardens, and enjoy features like a canopy walkway 18 meters above the forest floor. Managed by Wellington City Council, Otari-Wilton's Bush plays a crucial role in conserving threatened species and educating the public about New Zealand's unique natural heritage.