Soak up the atmosphere of this stunningly premier landscaped garden and unique homestead, originally developed by Sir Russell Matthews and his family in 1932. Sculpted from a hillside overlooking the Waiwhakaiho River, the plantings and landscapes remain true to their heritage. As you walk the winding paths cut into the hillside, you’ll find stately trees, deciduous maples, copper beeches and dawn redwoods, as well as a stunning collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, and hydrangeas that were all carefully planted by Sir Russell. The river flat retains an idyllic pastoral feeling with simple plantings of specimen trees, complemented by the movement of the wind and water. Here you will find free gas barbecues and picnic areas, popular with summer visitors who can also enjoy a swim in the Waiwhakaiho River.

What are the rules while in the garden?

Firstly, Please do not bring your dog or portable BBQs or anything that could be destructive really. Drones are welcome, and there are toilets and designated picnic areas. Please also share your experience!

Also take a tour of Tūpare’s distinctive Chapman-Taylor-designed house, which is a great example of the Arts & Crafts style of architecture. Where you can relive the splendour of Tūpare at a High Tea event held in the Chapman-Taylor-designed house on the first Sunday of every month from May – October. Tickets cost $20 per person and numbers are limited. Tickets are purchased from BlackBird Society – 79 Devon Street East New Plymouth with cash only. Tūpare recently earned the NZ Gardens Trust’s highest six-star rating – a distinction shared only by 13 other locations nationally.

  • Tūpare is open all day, every day

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