I have just returned from the Taranki Garden Festival in New Zealand.  What amazing gardens I saw!  Here are my favourite five; there will be in depth reviews of each coming up on my blog.

1. Te Kainga Marire, New Plymouth

Lose yourself in this half acre garden that feels like at least five! Mostly natives, planted with immense skill over 40 years. Incredible.

 

2. Puketarata, New Plymouth

A garden of rooms, blending exotics and perennials seamlessly. Views of the mountain add to the magic.

 

3. Oakley Garden, Hawera

An incredibly extensive range of plants in unusual combinations shows what can be made to work with a bit of creativity.

 

4. Ann and Vince’s Garden, New Plymouth

Aside from the field of irises, the elegant avenue of bays and long herbaceous borders, this modern setting by the river is quite exquisite.

 

5. Gravetye, Hawera

A very formal garden with strong structure, recently showcased in House and Garden magazine.  Designed to perfection.