10 Things to Do in Eastwoodhill Arboretum, Gisborne New Zealand
Eastwoodhill Arboretum in Gisborne, New Zealand is a spectacular botanical garden and nature reserve with over 4,000 species of trees, shrubs, vines, and other plants. It is the largest and most complete collection of northern hemisphere trees in the Southern Hemisphere and is the only arboretum in New Zealand to have been awarded National Historic Place status. With its stunning scenery and diverse range of activities, Eastwoodhill Arboretum is a must-visit destination in Gisborne. Here are 10 things you can do during your visit:
1. Take a Guided Tour: Eastwoodhill Arboretum offers guided tours of the gardens, which are a great way to learn more about the history and plant life of the arboretum. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will share interesting facts and stories about the plants, trees, and wildlife in the area.
2. Hike the Trails: Eastwoodhill Arboretum has over 15 kilometres of trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Explore the diverse landscape and admire the native trees and plants as you wander through the gardens.
3. Visit the Visitor Centre: The Visitor Centre is the perfect place to learn more about the arboretum. Here, you can find out about the history of the arboretum, its plant life, and the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect the environment.
4. Spot Wildlife: Eastwoodhill Arboretum is home to a wide range of native wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and insects. Keep an eye out for tuis, bellbirds, fantails, and more.
5. Picnic in the Park: Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch in the park. There are plenty of picnic spots to choose from, with plenty of shade and stunning views.
6. Go Fishing: The nearby Waiapu River is a great spot for fishing. The river is stocked with trout, and you can also find eels, whitebait, and other species.
7. Take a Horseback Ride: Explore the arboretum on horseback with the help of a local guide. Horseback rides are available for all levels of riders, and you can even take a picnic along for the ride.
8. Go Bird Watching: Eastwoodhill Arboretum is home to over 80 species of native birds, including the rare kokako. Keep an eye out for kaka, tui, kereru, and more.
9. Explore the Native Plant Nursery: The nursery at Eastwoodhill Arboretum is the largest collection of native plants in the Southern Hemisphere. Here, you can find a variety of plants to take home and add to your garden.
10. Visit the Sculpture Garden: Eastwoodhill Arboretum is home to a stunning sculpture garden featuring works by local artists. Take a stroll through the garden and admire the unique sculptures.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful stroll through the gardens or an adventurous hike through the trails, Eastwoodhill Arboretum has something for everyone. With its stunning scenery and diverse range of activities, it’s the perfect place to explore and discover the beauty of Gisborne.