The Sights and Scents of Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Founded in 1863, the Christchurch Botanic Gardens are located in the central city of Christchurch, New Zealand.
The grounds of the Christchurch Botanic Gardens encompass an area of 30 hectares alongside the Avon River. Contained within this area is undoubtedly the finest collection of exotic and indigenous plants to be found anywhere in New Zealand. Towering majestic trees (many over 120 years old) dominate the Botanic Gardens.
The Rose Garden is central in the Botanic Gardens layout, containing more than 250 different roses. Old and new varieties are grown and displayed in such a way that visitors can see examples of those most suitable for their own requirements.
The nearby Herb Garden, constructed in 1986, has an extensive range of plants used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
Be sure also to visit the Heather Garden, Rock Garden, Rhododendron Collection and the Cockayne Garden, which features New Zealand native plants.
The Botanic Gardens are open every day of the year at 7 am. Admission is free.