Last updated June 2026
Bason Botanic Gardens is a 25-hectare public garden at 552 Rapanui Road in Westmere, about 8 kilometres northwest of central Whanganui. The site is free to enter and open daily from 8am until dusk, with conservatories open 9am to 4:30pm. It features one of New Zealand’s most extensive public orchid collections, a Japanese tea house, lakeside paths, and formal and native plantings across landscaped countryside. Visitors can explore on foot or by car thanks to internal roads, and the gardens are managed by a charitable trust in partnership with Whanganui District Council.
Practical Information
| Address | 552 Rapanui Road, Westmere, Whanganui |
| Hours | Gardens: 8am to dusk daily (variable; e.g. 8am–8pm in peak summer). Conservatories: 9am–4:30pm daily. |
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Free gas BBQs, picnic areas, Japanese tea house, lakeside paths, internal roads for driving, orienteering and disc golf courses |
| Dogs | Not permitted |
| Parking | Free on-site parking |
| Accessibility | Drive-through options and some flat paths; terrain varies |
About the Gardens
Bason Botanic Gardens occupies 25 hectares of landscaped countryside on the outskirts of Whanganui. The gardens include formal plantings, native bush areas, specialty collections, and glass conservatories that protect tender species such as orchids, begonias, and tropical plants through the region’s winters. The site is recognised by the New Zealand Gardens Trust as a Garden of Significance.
A central grassy area provides sheltered picnic spots with free gas barbecues, popular with families. A lakeside walk circles the main lake and passes the Japanese tea house, which was relocated and integrated into the landscape for cultural activities. Extensive internal roads allow visitors to drive through the gardens and stop at points of interest, making the site suitable for those who prefer shorter walks.
Spring brings peak flowering displays outdoors, while the conservatories offer year-round colour and interest. The gardens support passive recreation alongside active options such as orienteering and a small disc golf course. Dogs are not permitted anywhere on the site.
Walking at Bason Botanic Gardens
Walking trails wind through the gardens, including a lakeside path around the central lake and routes past the Japanese tea house, wetlands, and native plantings. Additional paths support fitness activities and connect to features such as the Kowhai Bank and bridge areas. The site also offers an orienteering course suitable for families and groups. Internal roads provide an alternative for those who wish to combine driving with short walks between stops. Trails are generally well maintained and offer a mix of flat and gently undulating terrain.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors frequently praise the peaceful setting, the impressive variety of plants, and the surprise of finding such extensive free gardens just outside the city. The orchid conservatories and lakeside walks receive consistent positive mentions for their beauty and accessibility.
Reviewers often highlight the family-friendly picnic areas with free barbecues and the option to drive through the gardens, noting that the combination of formal displays, native areas, and specialty houses makes for an enjoyable half-day visit.
Where to Learn More
Bason Botanic Gardens official website: maps, plant lists, event details, and information from the managing trust.
Whanganui District Council – Bason Botanic Gardens: official park listing with facilities and contact details.
New Zealand Gardens Trust: profile of Bason Botanic Gardens within the national network of significant gardens.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bason Botanic Gardens free?
Yes, entry to the gardens is free.
What are the opening hours?
The gardens are open daily from 8am until dusk, with variable closing times depending on daylight. Conservatories are open 9am to 4:30pm.
Are dogs allowed?
No, dogs are not permitted anywhere in the gardens.
Where is Bason Botanic Gardens located?
At 552 Rapanui Road, Westmere, approximately 8 kilometres northwest of central Whanganui.
What makes the gardens special?
The site holds one of New Zealand’s largest public orchid collections, a Japanese tea house, lakeside walks, and 25 hectares of varied plantings including native and exotic species.
Can visitors drive through the gardens?
Yes, internal roads allow driving tours with stops at key points, alongside walking paths.
Are there walking trails?
Yes, multiple trails include a lakeside loop, paths past the tea house and wetlands, and routes suitable for fitness or orienteering.
Is there parking and picnic facilities?
Free on-site parking is available, along with gas barbecues and picnic areas in the central grassy zone.
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