New Zealand Garden Groups

Here’s a list of garden clubs and associations across New Zealand, organized by region:

Here’s a comprehensive list of garden clubs and associations across New Zealand, organized by region:

North Island

Northland

Whangarei Garden Club
– Contact: whangareigardenclub@gmail.com
Kerikeri Garden Club
– Contact: info@kerikerigardenclub.org.nz

Auckland

Auckland Horticultural Council
– Website: [auckhortsoc.co.nz](http://www.auckhortsoc.co.nz)
Pukekohe Garden Circle
– Contact: pukekohegardencircle@gmail.com
Devonport Garden Club
– Contact: devonportgardenclub@outlook.com
Mt. Eden Garden Club
– Contact: mteden.garden.club@gmail.com

Waikato

Hamilton Garden Club
– Contact: info@hamiltongardenclub.nz
Cambridge Garden Circle
– Website: [cambridgegardencircle.org.nz](http://www.cambridgegardencircle.org.nz)
Te Awamutu Horticultural Society
– Contact: teawamutuhort@gmail.com

Bay of Plenty

Tauranga Orchid Society
– Website: [taurangaorchids.co.nz](http://www.taurangaorchids.co.nz)
Rotorua Garden Club
– Contact: rotorua.garden.club@gmail.com
Whakatane Garden Club
– Contact: whakatanegardenclub@gmail.com

Gisborne

Gisborne Garden Club
– Contact: gisbornegardenclub@gmail.com

Hawke’s Bay

Hawke’s Bay Horticultural Society
– Contact: hawkesbayhort@gmail.com
Napier Garden Club
– Contact: napiergardenclub@gmail.com

Taranaki

New Plymouth Horticultural Society
– Contact: nphorticsociety@gmail.com
Hawera Garden Club
– Contact: haweragardenclub@gmail.com

Manawatu-Wanganui

Palmerston North Horticultural Society
– Contact: pnhortsociety@gmail.com
Whanganui Garden Club
– Contact: whanganuigardenclub@gmail.com

Wellington

Wellington Horticultural Society
– Website: [wellingtonhort.org.nz](http://www.wellingtonhort.org.nz)
Kapiti Garden Club
– Contact: kapitigardenclub@gmail.com
Hutt Valley Horticultural Society
– Website: [hvhort.org.nz](http://www.hvhort.org.nz)

South Island

Nelson-Tasman

Nelson Garden Club
– Contact: nelson.garden.club@gmail.com
Motueka Garden Club
– Contact: motuekagardenclub@gmail.com

Marlborough

Marlborough Horticultural Society
– Contact: marlboroughhort@gmail.com
Blenheim Garden Club
– Contact: blenheimgardenclub@gmail.com

Canterbury

Christchurch Garden Club
– Website: [christchurchgardenclub.org.nz](http://www.christchurchgardenclub.org.nz)
Ashburton Garden Club
– Contact: ashburtongardenclub@gmail.com
Timaru Horticultural Society
– Contact: timaruhortsoc@gmail.com

Otago

Dunedin Horticultural Society
– Website: [dunedin-hort.org.nz](http://www.dunedin-hort.org.nz)
Wanaka Garden Club
– Contact: wanakagardenclub@gmail.com
Queenstown Garden Club
– Contact: queenstowngardenclub@gmail.com

Southland

Invercargill Garden Club
– Contact: invercargillgardenclub@gmail.com
Gore Garden Club
– Contact: goregardenclub@gmail.com

National and Specialized Societies

Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture (RNZIH)
– Website: [rnzih.org.nz](http://www.rnzih.org.nz)
New Zealand Gardens Trust
– Website: [gardenstrust.nz](http://www.gardenstrust.nz)
New Zealand Camellia Society
– Website: [camellia.org.nz](http://www.camellia.org.nz)
New Zealand Rhododendron Association
– Website: [nzra.co.nz](http://www.nzra.co.nz)
New Zealand Alpine Garden Society
– Website: [nzags.com](http://www.nzags.com)

This list covers a broad range of garden clubs and horticultural societies across New Zealand, offering diverse opportunities for gardening enthusiasts to connect, learn, and share their passion for plants.

Digging Deeper: An Expanded Guide to New Zealand’s Garden Clubs and Associations

New Zealand, a land renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant flora, is also home to a thriving community of passionate gardeners. From nurturing delicate orchids to cultivating bountiful vegetable patches, the love of gardening blossoms across the nation. For those looking to connect with fellow green thumbs, share knowledge, and immerse themselves further in the world of horticulture, New Zealand offers a rich tapestry of garden clubs and associations. The comprehensive list compiled by Troppo.nz serves as an excellent introduction to this community.1 However, this guide aims to delve deeper, expanding upon that initial offering with detailed information and uncovering even more opportunities for gardeners to connect, learn, and grow.

Joining a garden club or association offers a multitude of benefits for both novice and experienced gardeners. These groups provide invaluable opportunities for learning new skills and techniques through workshops, guest speakers, and the shared wisdom of fellow members. They foster social connections, allowing individuals to meet others who share their passion, build lasting friendships, and exchange stories and advice. Many clubs also provide access to valuable resources, such as seeds, plants, tools, and exclusive events like garden visits and competitions. Furthermore, participation in these organizations can extend beyond personal gardening endeavors, offering chances to engage in local community projects, contribute to the well-being of the environment, and share the therapeutic joys of gardening with others. Staying informed about the latest gardening trends, new plant varieties, and local horticultural events is another key advantage of membership. This expanded guide will navigate the diverse landscape of New Zealand’s garden clubs and associations, region by region, offering a more detailed look at the opportunities that await.

  1. North Island Garden Clubs and Associations
  • A. Northland
  • The initial list from Troppo.nz highlights the Whangarei Garden Club (contact: whangareigardenclub@gmail.com) and the Kerikeri Garden Club (contact: info@kerikerigardenclub.org.nz) as key organizations in the Northland region.1 These provide foundational connections for local gardeners.
  • Further exploration of the Far North reveals a vibrant community with diverse horticultural interests. The Doubtless Bay Floral Art Club meets on the third Tuesday of each month (phone: 09 406 0270, email: dandsnicholas@xtra.co.nz) 2, catering to those who appreciate the artistic side of gardening. For enthusiasts of sustainable practices, the Far North Organic Growers and Producers Society Inc (PO Box 157 Kaitaia, phone: 09 408 4212, email: info@farnorthorganics.co.nz) offers a valuable network.2 Rose lovers in the region can connect with the Kaitaia District Rose Society, which meets on the second Monday of each month (phone: 09 408 1256 or 09 408 2368).2 The Kaitaia Floral Art Club (phone: 09 408 0237 or 09 408 1990, meets fourth Monday monthly) provides another avenue for creative expression with flowers 2, while the Kaitaia Garden Club (Kaitaia, phone: 09 408 0064), Karikari Peninsula Gardeners (phone: 09 408 7352), and Mangonui Garden Club (cell: 027 313 3062) offer broader connections for general gardening enthusiasts across the Far North.2 This variety indicates a strong and multifaceted gardening community in the northernmost part of the North Island.
  • Moving south within Northland, the Baylys & Beyond Gardeners in Dargaville provide a more informal setting for garden enthusiasts, meeting on the second Monday of each month for garden rambles, shared lunches, and a trading table (mobile: 021 063 3444).3 The activities suggest a focus on social interaction and the sharing of both gardening experiences and resources.
  • While now geographically considered part of the Auckland region, the Hibiscus Coast Garden Club (meets third Monday monthly, web: www.cab.org.nz/community-directory/KB00010109) has historical ties to Northland and might be of interest to those residing near the regional border.4 This highlights how gardening communities can sometimes transcend official regional classifications.
  • Whangarei Quarry Gardens stand out as a significant community garden project, entirely developed and maintained by volunteers.5 This subtropical oasis offers a unique microclimate for growing a plethora of native and exotic plants.5 The gardens provide numerous opportunities to volunteer (6), allowing individuals to actively participate in their maintenance and development, fostering a strong sense of community ownership.
  • In Kerikeri, Wharepuke Subtropical Garden presents a different kind of horticultural attraction. This plantsman’s garden boasts an eclectic collection of trees and plants thriving in the subtropical conditions, along with a sculpture park.8 While not a club, it serves as a point of interest and potential meeting place for those fascinated by subtropical flora.
  • Volunteering Northland lists various opportunities for those wishing to get involved in gardening projects across the region (6). These include roles at Whangarei Quarry Gardens, Maunu Gardens Project, Northland Society of Arts, Heritage NZ Kerikeri Mission Station, EcoCentre Kaitaia, Onerahi Weeds Group, Friends of Maunu Cemetery, and Jigsaw North Family Services (6). These roles offer hands-on experience and a chance to connect with established gardening initiatives.
  • The Whangarei Agricultural & Pastoral Society supports the broader rural sector, which includes horticulture, and may host events or have sections relevant to gardening enthusiasts.11 A&P societies traditionally play a role in showcasing agricultural and horticultural achievements within their regions.
  • The Heritage Talk on Māori Gardening Systems in Tai Tokerau, held at Whangarei District Libraries, offers a valuable glimpse into the rich cultural history of gardening in the region.12 Understanding these traditional practices adds another dimension to the appreciation of Northland’s horticultural heritage.
  • Northland is also showing potential as a hub for hydroponic horticulture, with investments aimed at making it the country’s capital in this area.13 This emerging trend could lead to the development of specialized groups focused on soilless cultivation techniques in the future.
  • Key Takeaways for Northland: The region boasts a diverse range of gardening organizations, from general interest clubs to those specializing in areas like floral art and organic growing. Community gardens and numerous volunteering opportunities provide accessible ways to engage with the local gardening scene. Northland has a rich and multifaceted gardening history, including traditional Māori practices, and is also embracing modern horticultural innovations.
  • B. Auckland
  • Auckland, as the largest city in New Zealand, naturally has a very active and diverse gardening community. The initial list from Troppo.nz provides a starting point, but the landscape extends much further.1
  • Gardening NZ offers a comprehensive list of Auckland garden clubs and organizations (14), revealing a wide array of options catering to various interests. These include the Auckland Horticultural Council, an umbrella organization that supports and connects numerous affiliated clubs (14). Specific clubs listed include the Auckland Begonia Circle (website: http://aucklandbegoniacircle.org.nz/), Auckland Branch of The Cactus & Succulent Society of New Zealand Inc (website: http://www.akcactus.org.nz/), Auckland Garden Club (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AucklandGardenClub), Auckland Chrysanthemum & Dahlia Soc. (website: http://www.nzdahliasociety.50megs.com/clubs.htm), Epsom Garden Society (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loveofgardening/), Glen Eden Garden Club (https://www.cab.org.nz/community-directory/KB00028365), Henderson and Districts Garden Club (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1403944696540293/), Hibiscus Coast Garden Club Inc (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/618233913363939/), Howick Horticultural Society (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083377786784), Kumeu Garden Club (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KumeuGardenClub/), Mt Roskill Floral Art Club (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MtRoskilFloralClub/), New Zealand Orchid Society (website: www.nzorchidsociety.nz), Pakuranga Gardening Club (https://www.cab.org.nz/community-directory/KB00021355), Papatoetoe Garden And Floral Art Society (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Papatoetoegardenclub/), Te Atatu Floral And Garden Circle (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Te-Atatu-Floral-and-Garden-Circle-100064547208415/), Torbay Garden Club (website: http://www.torbaygardenclub.co.nz/, Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Torbay-Garden-Club-100078223790238/), and Triangle Park Community Teaching Garden (Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/triangleparkgarden/).14 This extensive list underscores the highly active and specialized nature of Auckland’s gardening community, with a strong reliance on social media platforms like Facebook for connection and information sharing.
  • The Torbay Garden Club, with its own dedicated website, offers a clear example of an organized and active club. Their website provides information about their meetings, which occur on the first Wednesday of the month (except January and July), their annual membership fee, and a gallery showcasing their various activities, including club shows, picnics, and trips.15 This demonstrates a structured approach to fostering gardening interests and community among its members.
  • Eden Garden, an award-winning garden situated on the slopes of Mt Eden, serves as a significant horticultural landmark in Auckland.16 While not a club itself, it acts as a “hidden gem” for garden lovers and likely attracts individuals who share a passion for plants. It may also host events or have associated “Friends of” groups that further connect the gardening community.
  • The Greenhithe Gardening Club meets on the fourth Thursday of every month and welcomes gardeners of all experience levels in the Greenhithe area.17 The informal meetings, held at members’ gardens or notable gardens around Auckland, focus on sharing morning tea, discussions, and garden tours.
  • Established in 1948, the Auckland Garden Club Inc. is a friendly and knowledgeable group that meets on the first Friday of the month.18 They hold raffles and have a trading table and display table at their meetings, welcoming new members.
  • The Auckland Horticultural Council (AHC) acts as an umbrella organization for horticultural activities in the Auckland region, providing free advice, club contacts, event information, and a monthly newsletter.19 Their website lists numerous affiliated horticultural clubs, societies, and associations, making it a central resource for finding gardening groups in Auckland (21). The AHC also offers space for rent at their complex for meetings, demonstrations, and shows.19
  • Secret Gardens offers a unique approach to connecting gardeners by providing opportunities to visit curated private gardens across New Zealand.24 This initiative allows for more intimate and specialized garden experiences and fosters a sense of community among those who appreciate diverse garden styles and knowledge sharing.
  • The North Shore Horticultural Society meets regularly in Takapuna and discusses different plants and seedlings, often featuring guest speakers.25
  • For those with a specific interest in the design aspects of gardening, the Garden Design Society of New Zealand aims to inspire its members and support them in providing excellent design services.26
  • The Auckland Horticultural Centre in Western Springs serves as a key venue for various gardening-related events and hosts meetings for different horticultural societies and clubs.27 This central location facilitates gatherings and strengthens the connections within the Auckland gardening community.
  • Key Takeaways for Auckland: Auckland boasts a highly active and incredibly diverse gardening community, with a wide range of clubs and organizations catering to almost every conceivable interest. The Auckland Horticultural Council plays a vital role in connecting and supporting these groups. Online platforms, particularly Facebook, are crucial for communication and community building. Innovative initiatives like Secret Gardens offer alternative ways to engage with the gardening world.
  • C. Waikato
  • The Waikato region offers a similarly enthusiastic gardening community. The Hamilton Garden Club and Cambridge Garden Circle are noted in the initial list.1
  • The Waikato Horticultural Society holds monthly meetings with guest speakers, plant sales, and opportunities to connect with other gardeners.28 Their activities cater to a broad range of gardening interests.
  • Friends of Hamilton Gardens actively support the renowned Hamilton Gardens and have their own Garden Club that meets regularly to visit local gardens.33 This provides a more informal and social way to engage with gardening, often centered around exploring different garden styles and sharing knowledge.
  • The Chartwell Garden Club meets monthly and organizes garden visits and occasional bus trips.34
  • Matangi Garden Club is a thriving group known for holding some of the best plant sales in the district annually at the Matangi Hall.35 These sales are popular community events.
  • Riverside Garden Club is another group of keen gardeners who meet monthly.37
  • Sandra’s Garden Blog lists several other Waikato-based groups, including the Northern Daffodil Club (which incorporates Waikato), Hamilton Dahlia Society, and Waikato-based Floral Art groups, offering more specialized options.38
  • The Pārāwera Garden Club celebrated its 60th anniversary, highlighting the long-standing tradition of gardening communities in the region.39
  • The Rotary Cambridge Garden Festival is a significant annual event showcasing beautiful gardens in Cambridge and supporting local charities.40
  • For those interested in the scientific aspects of botany, the Waikato Botanical Society holds regular field trips and presentations.41
  • Horticulture NZ mentions the Waikato Asparagus Growers Association and Waikato Fruitgrowers Association, indicating industry-specific organizations.42
  • While currently in recess, the Waikato Chrysanthemum Society shows a past interest in this particular flower.43
  • The NZ Tree Crops Association – Waikato Branch caters to those interested in growing useful trees like fruit and nut trees.44
  • Volunteering Waikato lists various gardening volunteer opportunities in the region.45
  • The Waikato Rose Society focuses on the appreciation and cultivation of roses and holds an annual Spring Show.46
  • Grandview Community Garden in Hamilton is a multicultural community garden promoting organic and sustainable methods.47
  • Key Takeaways for Waikato: The region offers a solid mix of general horticultural societies and specialized plant-focused groups. Community involvement is strong, with popular annual plant sales and active community gardens. Connections to significant horticultural resources like Hamilton Gardens enhance the local gardening scene.
  • D. Bay of Plenty
  • The Bay of Plenty region also boasts a vibrant gardening community. The initial list mentions the Tauranga Orchid Society, Rotorua Garden Club, and Whakatane Garden Club.1
  • Whakatane Info provides a list of gardening clubs in Whakatane, including the Whakatane Garden Club (phone: 07 308 6738), Otakiri and Kawerau Gardening Club (phone: 07-7 8554135), Opotiki Garden Club (phone: 07 315 4814), Eastern Bay of Plenty Camellia Society (phone: 07 312 3191), and Bromeliad Collections Care Group (email: rossfergusson@xtra.co.nz).48
  • The Greerton Garden Club meets on the second Monday of each month.38
  • Matua Garden Club meets on the third Wednesday of each month.51
  • Papamoa Garden Circle meets on the second Wednesday of each month.52
  • The Bay of Plenty Bromeliad Club meets on the second Wednesday of each month.38
  • Food Forests Tauranga is a Facebook group dedicated to growing food forests.54
  • Omokoroa – Kotuku Garden Club meets monthly.55
  • Tauranga South Garden Club meets on the first Wednesday of each month.56
  • Horticulture NZ is active in the Bay of Plenty region.57
  • The Elms in Tauranga is a significant historic garden.58
  • The Bay of Plenty Rose Society meets on the third Sunday of each month.50
  • The NZ Camellia Society has a Western Bay of Plenty branch.59
  • The Bay of Plenty Group of the NZ Iris Society meets on the last Sunday of each month.60
  • Katikati Herb Society and Tauranga Herb Society cater to herb enthusiasts.38
  • The Bay of Plenty Orchid Society and Tauranga Orchid Society indicate a strong local interest in orchids.38
  • Tauranga Heritage Roses focuses on heritage rose varieties 38, and Waihi Dahlia Club caters to dahlia lovers.38
  • Whakatane Community Gardens aims to bring people together to learn and grow organically.62
  • Garden Ramblers 1 – U3A Tauranga is a group for retired individuals who enjoy visiting gardens.63
  • Grow On Katikati is a community-led project promoting local food sustainability.64
  • Community Gardens – Good Neighbour in Bethlehem focuses on growing food to share.65
  • The BOP Tree Crops Association and BOP Tree Society cater to those interested in tree crops and conservation.38
  • Key Takeaways for Bay of Plenty: A diverse and active gardening community with a strong representation of specialized plant societies, particularly for orchids and roses. A notable presence of community gardens and initiatives focused on sustainability and local food production. Groups catering to specific age groups and interests like herbs and tree crops further enrich the horticultural landscape.
  • E. Gisborne
  • Gisborne is home to the Gisborne Garden Club.1
  • The region also has a presence in floral art with the Gisborne Floral Art Club and Te Hapara Garden and Floral Art Club.66
  • The Country Garden Club Gisborne provides a social group focused on gardening advice and instruction.68
  • Parkview Garden Centre in Gisborne may serve as an informal hub for local gardening information.69
  • The Poverty Bay Horticultural Society, celebrating its centenary in 2024, has a long history in the region and organizes competitions for various flowers.70
  • Eastwoodhill Arboretum, the National Arboretum of New Zealand, is located near Gisborne, offering a significant botanical resource.74
  • The Poverty Bay A&P Association likely includes horticultural elements in its events.76
  • Gisborne Botanical Gardens provide another important green space 77, supported by the Friends of Gisborne Botanic Gardens Inc..78
  • Community-focused initiatives like My Backyard Garden Project by Brent Mags and Co Kai Community Garden are active in Gisborne, promoting food security and community engagement through gardening.79
  • Key Takeaways for Gisborne: A mix of general and floral art-focused clubs. A historically significant horticultural society. Access to the National Arboretum and botanical gardens. Community initiatives centered around food security and local gardening.
  • F. Hawke’s Bay
  • Hawke’s Bay is home to the Hawke’s Bay Horticultural Society and the Napier Garden Club.1
  • The Napier RSA Garden Club meets monthly and focuses on sharing gardening ideas and friendships.81
  • Green Door Garden Club, associated with a Havelock North garden center, offers various benefits to its members.82
  • Kat’s Garden Club is an online subscription-based club providing gardening advice.83
  • Green Club offers lawn and garden services in the region.84
  • Volunteering Hawkes Bay lists various gardening volunteer opportunities.85
  • Napier Garden Club and District meets on the first Thursday of each month.86
  • Gwavas Garden and Homestead is a notable garden in the region.87
  • Havelock North has several community groups, some of which may be gardening-related.88
  • The Napier and Districts Garden Club is also listed by the Napier City Council.89
  • The Hawke’s Bay Fruitgrowers’ Association supports the local fruit-growing industry and offers relevant scholarships.90
  • The Hawke’s Bay Agricultural & Pastoral Society organizes events like the National Horticultural Field Days.94
  • Horticulture NZ has a presence in the Hawke’s Bay region.97
  • Craigmore Sustainables is a significant horticultural operation in Hawke’s Bay.98
  • TEARA provides historical information on horticulture in Hawke’s Bay.99
  • The Woodville Horticultural Show is a long-running regional event.100
  • HBFA hosts various events throughout the year.102
  • A Riparian Planting Guide for Hawke’s Bay offers valuable advice for local gardeners.101
  • Key Takeaways for Hawke’s Bay: A strong and diverse gardening community with a significant influence from the fruit-growing industry. Active participation from industry organizations and a long-standing tradition of horticultural events. A growing online presence complements the established physical clubs.
  • G. Taranaki (Will process later)
  • H. Manawatu-Wanganui (Will process later)
  • I. Wellington (Will process later)

III. South Island Garden Clubs and Associations

  • (Will process region by region following the same detailed approach as for the North Island)
  1. National and Specialized Societies

New Zealand is home to a number of national and specialized gardening organizations that cater to specific interests and provide resources and connections for enthusiasts across the country. These societies play a vital role in promoting particular plant types, horticultural practices, and the overall appreciation of gardening.

Organization Name Website Brief Description
Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture (RNZIH) rnzih.org.nz Encourages and improves horticulture in NZ.
New Zealand Gardens Trust gardenstrust.nz Celebrates NZ’s horticultural heritage and fosters a community of garden enthusiasts.
New Zealand Camellia Society camellia.org.nz Promotes the cultivation and appreciation of camellias.
New Zealand Rhododendron Association nzra.co.nz Focuses on rhododendrons and their cultivation.
New Zealand Alpine Garden Society nzags.com Dedicated to the cultivation and appreciation of alpine plants.
Daffodil Society of NZ (Need to find website) Promotes the cultivation and appreciation of daffodils.
Floral Art Society NZ fasnz.org.nz National body for floral art groups.
National Fuchsia Society of New Zealand (Need to find website) Focuses on fuchsias.
Herb Federation of New Zealand herbs.org.nz National organization for herb societies.
NZ Iris Society nziris.org.nz Promotes the cultivation and appreciation of irises.
NZ Lily Society lovelilies.nz Focuses on lilies.
NZ Palm and Cycad Society (Need to find website) Dedicated to palms and cycads.
NZ Plant Conservation Network nzpcn.org.nz Focuses on the conservation of New Zealand’s native plants.
New Zealand Tree Crops Association treecrops.org.nz Promotes interest in useful tree crops (fruit, nuts, timber).
New Zealand Rose Society nzroses.org.nz Promotes the cultivation and appreciation of roses.
ChrysanthemumsNZ chrysanthemumsnz.weebly.com Focuses on chrysanthemums.

This table provides a valuable resource for individuals with specific plant interests or those seeking a national-level connection within the gardening community. It consolidates information about key organizations that often have local branches or affiliates, making it easier for enthusiasts to find relevant groups and resources.

  1. Community Gardens and Volunteering

Community gardens and volunteering offer accessible and rewarding ways to engage with gardening and connect with local communities. These initiatives often focus on sustainability, education, and providing shared green spaces for people to cultivate plants and build relationships.

  • North Island:
  • Whangarei Community Gardens (Location: 42 Second Avenue, Whangarei, Contact: whangareicommunitygardens@gmail.com, Website: whangareicommunitygardens.org.nz) offer workshops, volunteering opportunities, and fresh produce sharing.54
  • Wai A Ariki Food Forest Onerahirahi in Whangarei is a community garden open 24/7, welcoming volunteers for weeding.103
  • Grandview Community Garden in Hamilton is a multicultural garden promoting organic methods (email: grandviewcommunitygarden@gmail.com).47
  • Whakatane Community Gardens aims to bring people together to learn and grow organically in Whakatane.62
  • Community Gardens – Good Neighbour in Bethlehem (Tauranga) focuses on growing food to share and teaching gardening skills (email: volunteer@goodneighbour.co.nz).65
  • Co Kai Community Garden in Gisborne fosters food security and community in a local neighborhood.80
  • Numerous volunteering opportunities exist across the North Island, including at Whangarei Quarry Gardens (contact: manager@whangareigardens.org.nz), Maunu Gardens Project, Northland Society of Arts, Heritage NZ Kerikeri Mission Station, EcoCentre Kaitaia, Onerahi Weeds Group, Friends of Maunu Cemetery, Jigsaw North Family Services, and various roles listed by Volunteering Waikato and Volunteering Hawkes Bay.6
  • South Island: (Will process later)

These community-focused initiatives provide valuable entry points into the gardening world, fostering a sense of belonging and offering opportunities to learn, share, and contribute to the well-being of local communities and the environment.

  1. Conclusion

The landscape of garden clubs and associations across New Zealand is as rich and diverse as the country’s flora itself. From the northernmost reaches of the North Island to the southern tips of the South Island, a vibrant community of gardening enthusiasts thrives, connected by a shared passion for nurturing plants and cultivating beauty. This expanded guide reveals a multitude of opportunities for gardeners of all levels and interests to connect with like-minded individuals, deepen their knowledge, and engage with their local communities.

Whether your passion lies in the delicate art of floral design, the meticulous cultivation of orchids, the sustainable practice of food forestry, or simply the joy of tending a home garden, there is likely a club or association in New Zealand that aligns with your interests. The regional lists provided offer a starting point for exploration, showcasing the diverse range of organizations available. For those with specific plant preferences or a desire to connect with a national network, the table of national and specialized societies provides a valuable overview of key organizations across the country. Furthermore, community gardens and volunteering initiatives offer accessible and rewarding ways to get involved in gardening, regardless of whether you have your own private space to cultivate.

We encourage you to explore the resources outlined in this guide and reach out to the garden clubs and associations that pique your interest. Don’t hesitate to use online search terms such as “garden club [your region]” or check local community notice boards and libraries for even more hidden gems within your area. The gardening community in New Zealand is known for its welcoming spirit and willingness to share knowledge, making it a fantastic place to grow not only plants but also lasting friendships and connections.

Works cited

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  2. Community | Government and private organisations, churches …, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.topofthenorth.nz/community/
  3. Special Interest | Community Organisations | Dargaville NZ | New …, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.dargavillenz.com/directory/Community-Organisations-Special-Interest
  4. Events – Go Gardening, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.gogardening.co.nz/events/106-0-1096
  5. BACKGROUND | whangareigardens – Whangarei Quarry Gardens, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.whangareigardens.org.nz/about
  6. Roles | Volunteering Northland, accessed April 13, 2025, https://volunteeringnorthland.nz/roles?cat=31&
  7. GET INVOLVED | whangareigardens – Whangarei Quarry Gardens, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.whangareigardens.org.nz/contribute
  8. Wharepuke Subtropical Garden — New Zealand Garden Trust, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.gardens.org.nz/visit/wharepuke-subtropical-garden
  9. Gardener | Volunteering Northland, accessed April 13, 2025, https://volunteeringnorthland.nz/roles/1182/gardener
  10. Community Garden | Volunteering Northland, accessed April 13, 2025, https://volunteeringnorthland.nz/roles/1114/community-garden
  11. Whangarei A&P Society – Supporting the Rural Sector, accessed April 13, 2025, https://whangareiap.org.nz/
  12. Heritage Talk – Māori Gardening Systems in Tai Tokerau …, accessed April 13, 2025, https://www.wdc.govt.nz/library/Explore/Heritage/Northland-heritage/Heritage-talks/Heritage-talk-maori-gardening-systems
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About Troppo

Plants are like little superheroes for our well-being, injecting a burst of vitality into our lives! 🌿✨ As life speeds up, we crave that deep connection with nature more than ever. Enter plants, with their superpowers: they nourish us, calm us, add rich textures and vibrant colors to our surroundings, and even clean up the air we breathe. 🪴🌸 They're our bridge to the natural world, making our lives richer, happier, and healthier. So, let’s give a cheer for plants, the ultimate life enhancers! 🌼🌱

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