This year, we’re taking the tour back to its roots – quite literally – by inviting you to spend time exploring the lush ngahere of Whatonga Tapere a Nui – the forest of Whatonga.

Here, towering native trees reach for the sky, birdsong fills the air, and the history of Aotearoa’s natural heritage surrounds you. It’s a living reminder of why the Garden Tour began: to protect and restore our native environment.

During your visit, you can enjoy (at no extra charge) Pūkaha’s daily wildlife talks:

• 12.00pm – Kiwi talk: learn about our nocturnal taonga and the work being done to protect them.
• 1.30pm – Eel feed: meet the longfin eels and hear their extraordinary life story.
• 3.00pm – Kākā feed: see these playful forest parrots up close.

In between, wander the tracks, breathe in the fresh forest air, and take time to spot native species such as North Island brown kiwi, kōkako, kākāriki, and kākā.

Pūkaha’s 942-hectare sanctuary is a rare remnant of ancient forest, home to precious wildlife and a living classroom for conservation in Aotearoa.

When you’re ready for a rest, the Kākā Café offers the perfect spot to relax with a coffee or a bite to eat while soaking up the sights and sounds of the ngahere.

Pūkaha isn’t just another stop on the Garden Tour – it’s the heart and soul of why this event exists.

Every ticket purchased supports the ongoing conservation work that ensures our native wildlife and forests will thrive for generations to come.