Rhododrendron Festival

Taranaki has a temperate climate and as such is perfect for growing plants from just about any environment, in addition to a temperate climate Taranaki possesses a dichotomy of sunshine and a healthy rainfall, as well as wind shelter and a rich volcanic soil thanks to an historically recent eruption of the local active volcano which the region takes its name from.Many plants grow and flourish even better than in their native country e.g. pinus radiata. Flowers is no exception, rhododendrons from all over the world grow here alongside native rhododendrons.

Pukeiti's Gardens original 62 hectares took root as a rhododendron garden in 1951. It has bloomed into a world renowned 360 hectares boasting 10, 000 rhododendrons, including 500 of the 800 known species, as well as 1500 hybrids.

With a plethora of flowers, including daphnes, hydrangeas, hostas, azaleas, camellias, roses and magnolias, the dozens of public and private gardens in Taranaki have something to share year-round.

Hence Taranaki is home to the annual Rhododendron Festival.

Thousands descend upon the region throughout the latter Spring months of October and November, during which many private gardens are opened to the public.