The Rangitikei is home to a number of well-known
private gardens to visit. There are gardens
that surround historic homesteads, over-look
the scenic countryside, and display rare
and interesting plant collections.
The wide range of climatic variation within
the district means that a large variety
of plants can be grown. Many subtropical
plants can be grown in the south around
Bulls and Marton,
while Hunterville
starts to become a bit cooler with occassional
frosts. The coolest areas around Rangiwahia
and Taihape provide
excellent conditions for striking autumn
colours.
Native plants are used widely in several
of the gardens which gives them a distinctly
New Zealand appearance. Many also feature
remnants of the original native bush, (forest).
The gardens are owned by keen gardeners
who have been sourcing plants from all over
the globe and are happy to talk to you about
their own personal collections.