Pukeiti, New Plymouth: Hours, Address, Pukeiti Reviews: 4.5/5
Pukeiti
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
Explore a wonderland of rhododendrons planted within 360 hectares of rainforest, located between Mount Taranaki and the coast, just south of New Plymouth. Established in 1951, Pukeiti is an internationally recognised garden with one of the most diverse collections of rhododendrons on display anywhere in the world. Take a short garden walk or a more challenging adventure and with either, sense another world and time. Feel the spiritual significance of Pukeiti to local tangata whenua and learn some of the language, knowledge and stories which are part of the land. Find out about pioneering Europeans, passionate plant-collectors and garden-makers. Discover the property whilst doing a fun activity or make use of the facilities for a private or community event. Pukeiti is owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region. Share Pukeiti – a truly unique part of Taranaki’s heritage.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
322 reviews
Excellent
229
Very good
75
Average
10
Poor
5
Terrible
3
Bevan
46 contributions
We went with a bunch of kids who enjoyed the kids trail experience. There were few flowers out being mid-winter, but must be stunning when the place is fully in bloom.
Written 18 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks very much for your review and rating. Great to hear that the kids enjoyed the treehouse trail. Yes, the rhododendrons are just starting to flower now in late July and the late ones will continue to bloom until around Christmas. The peak time is October and November.
Written 28 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
John Clark
Auckland, New Zealand10 contributions
NZ native bush in its glory!! Stands of ferns, kawakawa, kowhai, horopito all set in a beautiful setting. Was feeling tired and stressed before I went there - came away feeling refreshed and uplifted!!!
Written 1 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks for your review - glad to hear Pukeiti made you feel refreshed and uplifted. I'm surprised you saw kawakawa and kowhai as these are extremely rare at Pukeiti. Our abundant kereru (NZ pigeons) love to eat the leaves from the kowhai which eventually kills the plants so we don't try to grow them anymore.
Written 12 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
roaming_kiwi58
Christchurch, New Zealand2,723 contributions
This was our first visit to Pukeiti, but hopefully it will not be our last!
Even in May the gardens were really impressive. We will have to return in spring to see al the rhododendrons in bloom.
We really enjoyed our walk through the gardens, and the free entry makes it even better value!
We look forward to returning to Taranaki in the not too distant future, to again visit the fantastic gardens in this region.
Even in May the gardens were really impressive. We will have to return in spring to see al the rhododendrons in bloom.
We really enjoyed our walk through the gardens, and the free entry makes it even better value!
We look forward to returning to Taranaki in the not too distant future, to again visit the fantastic gardens in this region.
Written 23 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank very much for your great review and five star rating. Yes, October is probably the best month to see the rhododendrons in flower but you should see a reasonable number at anytime between now (mid July and the big leaf rhodos are just opening) and the end of the year.
Written 12 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Melanie B
21 contributions
If Pukekura park is a special place on earth, Pukeiti is heaven. I stayed overnight in the carpark, with many ruru after dark, having walked the giants trail in twilight. Then still with fine weather I did the (easy) summit track and continued on. The Rainforest cafe is fabulous but the ngahere itself is a very special place. I envy those who work here. It didn't matter that colour is limited in May. It was very difficult to leave.
Written 16 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you very much for your lovely review Melanie. We hope you're able to come back soon.
Written 12 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Marlaina C
New Plymouth, New Zealand2,730 contributions
Friends
Pukeiti has so many interesting walks to choose from. I did the Rhododendron walk. If you don’t like inclines then this isn’t the walk for you. There are quite a few inclines but the good news is when you go up the only way back is?There you go, you’ve got it down. This time of the year,obviously some of the flowers are not in bloom. However the plants themselves alone are beautiful and exquisitely colourful, as the sun poetically hits the trees, dancing and bouncing off these glorious various and vast plant life. this is fantastic walk based in Taranaki and it’s so easy too get to. The drive up is beautiful and I will definitely encourage you to go because there’s so many different walks.You can do your walk your way, run, jog slow walk whatever and however you want to do it. In groups, duo’s or solo. Everybody can go up and have a really nice walk. Different paths some lengths marked others not. Lots of mocks and crannies to either rest or just take in nature which will be surrounding you. The sign post don’t lead you back to coffee shop so make sure you log your way. A massive tick is at the end of it all you get refreshments at the cafe, Cafe opens at 10am and shuts at 4pm. I highly recommend x10
Written 7 March 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks for your review. Glad to hear you enjoyed your visit to Pukeiti.
Written 12 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Orange.Cat.Reviews
New Zealand3 contributions
Couples
Wonderfully quiet and lush garden space. Well manicured and inviting, with lots of paths to wander and enjoy. We visited out of the rhodedendron season but still saw lots of other flowering plants in bloom.
There are plenty of shady spots to retreat to if the day is sunny and hot, and nice seating spots throughout. Looks like there are some treasure hunt type activities to keep kids entertained as well. Well worth a visit.
There are plenty of shady spots to retreat to if the day is sunny and hot, and nice seating spots throughout. Looks like there are some treasure hunt type activities to keep kids entertained as well. Well worth a visit.
Written 31 December 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you very much for your rating and lovely review.
Written 5 January 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TheBismarck
Christchurch, New Zealand72 contributions
This is an outstanding garden hidden away about 30 mins drive from the city. It's incredibly large, and focussed on rhododendrons and so most of the colour is to be seen in the late Sept-Nov time. Best of all, these are free to visit.
Written 11 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks very much for your great review and rating. Yes, September to November is the peak of the rhododendron flowering but there are always flowers to see at Pukeiti. Perennials and hydrangeas in the summer and rhododendrons throughout the second half of the year.
Written 18 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
N Bond
7 contributions
A great place to spend time in nature. Lots of different paths and the cafe serves pretty decent food.
Written 7 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks very much for your review.
Written 18 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Saartjies
Whanganui, New Zealand12 contributions
Family
We visited Pukeiti today with our three children. It has been many years since I have been and I was so impressed with the investment in this special part of Taranaki. We had a fabulous day and the kids loved it (ages 8, 11 & 13). We grabbed the treehouse activity bags and completed the trail, meandering off the track sometimes to explore different parts of the gardens. We lunched in the cafe which was well-priced and the menu suited young and old alike. Thank you TRC, we'll be back.
Written 11 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks very much for your great review and rating. Yes, there has been a lot going on at Pukeiti over the last few years and there are plans for more so do keep coming back to see what's happening!
Written 19 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Monica G
30 contributions
Family
We spent 2 hours here with our 2 & 3 year old and absolutely loved our visit! The gardens are beautiful and was even more spectacular on a rainy day. We did the treehouse hunt and our girls loved going along the trail to find each treehouse. The games they did at each tree house were great and easy to explain to the kids. We really felt like we were on an adventure and it was a special visit. Thanks for such a lovely time!
Written 8 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you so much for your review and rating. We're so pleased to hear about what a great time you had doing the treehouse trail. We hope to see you again soon.
Written 13 June 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Meredith C
Auckland, New Zealand34 contributions
Will the cafe be open on Sunday 16 September
Libranace
New Plymouth, New Zealand205 contributions
Hello yes it will. It reopens to the public on the 1st September. You may book it for private functions during the closed winter period. I hope this helps.
rhonacanastra
Hamilton, New Zealand
When is the best time to go that all the flowers are blooming?
Hi, the garden is known for its rhododendron collection. You will find rhodo flowers throughout the second half of the year. The big-leafs start in late July and some rhodos are usually still flowering at Christmas. The very best months are October and November. You will find some flowers throughout the year as we have many other kinds of plants too.
dockeryjo
Hawera, New Zealand1 contribution
You have maroon for hire how much and do you have catering menu as well
We have a function room called the Rata Room in the Rainforest Centre. In September 2018 the newly rebuilt Lodge will be opening too which will also be available for functions. Catering is usually done by Founders Café but other options are available. Check out the booking form on the Taranaki Regional Council website for prices and availability or phone 0800 736 222 during normal office hours.
MsBlueDaisy
Tauranga, New Zealand31 contributions
One of the reviews mentioned that the paths are steep. Are there any easier walks suitable for my elderly in-laws?
Yes, Pukeiti has a range of walks suitable for all abilities. The property covers 360ha and does include some steep areas including Pukeiti hill which has great views from the summit. However, the area near the carpark and buildings is fairly flat and there are wheelchair accessible pathways from the carpark down to a lookout to the waterwheel. This goes through the Vireya Walk where there are nearly always lovely flowers.
Claire V
Hastings, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand3 contributions
Would very early October be disappointin as far as seeing most rododendrons flowering?
In early October you will see the end of the big-leafs, plenty of azaleas and some other rhodos. There will be a lot in bud, which may make you feel as though you're too early but there is no time when you can see everything. Anytime in October or November is very good.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pukeiti
- Pukeiti is open:
- Sun - Sat 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
- Hotels near Pukeiti:
- (10.08 km) Ahu Ahu Beach Villas
- (9.86 km) Stony River Boutique Hotel
- (15.73 km) Tivoli Homestay
- (2.44 km) Patuha Lodge
- (9.84 km) Oakura Beach Holiday Park
- Restaurants near Pukeiti:
- (11.55 km) The Vineyard Bistro @ Okurukuru
- (9.86 km) Stony River Country Diner
- (9.54 km) Toret - Cucina Italiana
- (8.86 km) Lahar Cafe
- (9.87 km) Black Sand Pizzeria & Bistro