Bason Botanic Gardens
A 25-hectare botanic garden in the countryside west of the city, with greenhouses, a Japanese garden, and sweeping camellias. Ideal for a quiet half-day stroll.
Bason Botanic Gardens was originally the private farm of the Bason family. In 1966 it was donated to the city council as a botanic garden, covering about 25 hectares. The gardens include greenhouses displaying tropical and succulent plants, camellia and rhododendron gardens, a rose garden, a Japanese-style garden, and a lake, and the original farmhouse has been kept. Entry is free. Spring is the most beautiful season for the flowers, and visitors are fewer, so it pairs well with a trip to Kai Iwi Beach. It is about 10 km from the city center and requires a car.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–17:00 (extended hours in summer)
Nearby sights
- Kai Iwi Beach
- Virginia Lake Reserve
- Whanganui Regional Museum
- Sarjeant Gallery Te Whare o Rehua Whanganui
- New Zealand Glassworks
- Whanganui River Traders Market
- PS Waimarie
- St Paul's Memorial Church, Putiki