Rotorua Festival of Gardens

From Friday November 12th to Sunday November 14th, explore the fascinating, unique selection of over 40 gardens in New Zealand's volcanic city and surrounding countryside. Together we come together to celebrate our region's natural beauty, from vibrant flowers to bountiful native plant life. Take a break from exploring the countless gardens to buy some of the many plants for sale, attend a cooking demonstration or gardening workshop, or attend our Garden-Themed Market. Let our festival inspire you.

Over 40 gardens open from 9am to 5pm

Some gardens will feature plants for sale and entertainment

Friday November 12th - Cooking Demonstration by Mon's Flavors from 5.30pm to 7.30pm

Rotorua Bowling Club, Government Gardens. Pre-book online (limited spaces available)

Friday November 12th - Free Gardening Workshops from 10.00am to 2.00pm

Te Runanga Tearooms, Queen's Drive, Government Gardens, Rotorua

Saturday November 13th - Garden-Themed Market from 9am to 2.30pm

Near The Festival Hub

Saturday November 13th - Refreshments Available at Festival Hub

Te Runanga Tearooms, Queen's Drive, Government Gardens, Rotorua

Festival Event Timetable

Buy Tickets

Free Gardening Workshops

From 10.00am-2.00pm on Friday November 12th come and be inspired by a variety of expert speakers.

Topics include permaculture, bromeiiads, indoor plant propagation, bonsai, bee keeping and a flax weaving workshop. Join us in supporting the speakers inside the Te Runanga Tearooms, Government Gardens.

Refreshments at the Tea House

On Saturday November 13th, take a break from garden exploring to enjoy tea, coffee and homemade scones in the historic Te Runanga Tea House in the picturesque Government Gardens.

The proceeds go towards supporting a member of our community, Alicia, in her dream of studying in Italy in 2023 on a local high school exchange programme.

Cooking Demonstration

Limited tickets are available for a free 2-hour cooking demonstration by Mon's Flavors. Mon, who runs regular cooking lessons in Rotorua, will demonstrate three easy, healthy and tasty vegetarian recipes inspired by her Indian heritage.

Held at the Rotorua Bowling Club, Government Gardens on Friday 12 November 5.30-7.30pm, reserve your ticket with your festival ticket purchase.

Festival Market

Come along and enjoy 25 market stalls selling plants, pottery, garden tools, honey, micro greens, beeswax wraps, garden fairies and much more!

This market will be free to enter with ticket purchase and will be held near the Festival Hub at Te Ranunga Tearooms on Saturday November 13th from 9am-2.30pm.