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Bason Botanic Gardens

Just a 15-minute drive from the city centre, Bason Botanic Gardens are listed as one of Whanganui’s premier parks and rated as a Garden of Significance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust.

Numerous indoor and outdoor gardens, bush walks and relaxation areas with free barbecues provide year-round enjoyment in a magnificent rural setting.

A significant feature of the gardens is the Millennium Hill Mediterranean plantings which thrive in the coastal environment. The recent addition of a Japanese Tea House is another drawcard. Visitors to the gardens can make the most of the orienteering course around the property and the disc golf course.

The architecture of the glasshouses and other structures is another unique feature. These buildings house some of the botanical collection and feature orchids and begonias, along with outdoor areas showcasing beautiful delphiniums, camellias and succulents.

The gardens provide a colourful backdrop for many events, including weddings, birthday parties and family gatherings.

Opening hours

Bason Botanic Gardens are open daily. Seasonal opening hours are listed below:

April – Daylight savings	8.00am–6.30pm
Daylight savings – December	8.00am–8.00pm
December – March	8.00am–8.00pm
March – April	8.00am–7.30pm

Bequests to the Bason Botanic Gardens Trust

The Bason Botanic Gardens Trust was formed with the purpose of working with Whanganui District Council to develop Bason Botanic Gardens to their highest potential, upholding the dream of benefactor Stanley Bason, who wanted the site to be a botanical garden with rare and beautiful plants from all over the world. The trust organises events like Shakespeare in the Park. More information about the trust can be found on their website

The history of public giving is strong at the Bason Botanic Gardens. Since the gardens were established, bequests ranging in value from $500 to $500,000 have been received. A donation to the trust will contribute to present and future development at the gardens.

Bequests can be in the form of cash, shares, real estate or any other property, and may be made as a gift during your lifetime or a bequest in your will.

For further information contact Wendy Bainbridge at Whanganui District Council or Bason Botanic Gardens Trust Chair at basonbotanicgardens@gmail.com or write to PO Box 778, Whanganui, New Zealand.