Hurunui Garden Festival

This popular annual festival invites visitors to explore a diverse trail of gardens making it easy to plan visits around the district — from Amberley and the Waipara Gorge through Hawarden, Culverden, Rotherham and Waiau, up to Hanmer Springs in the north. Each garden is unique, reflecting the character and passion of its owners, from formal landscapes to intimate creative plantings and artistic outdoor spaces.

Beyond garden touring, the festival often includes special experiences, such as guided talks, workshops, art and photography displays, horticultural demonstrations, and opportunities to meet passionate gardeners. Many properties also feature on-site events like plant talks, creative workshops, and personalised garden tours that inspire both seasoned horticulturists and casual visitors alike.

The festival is a highlight of the North Canterbury spring calendar, offering inspiration for gardening enthusiasts, a chance to savour local hospitality, and an opportunity to enjoy the region’s scenic beauty at the peak of the growing season.