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Tupare and Hollard Gardens
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Tupare (left) and Hollard Gardens (above) are worlds of enchantment and beauty. There is much to see as both undergo refurbishment over summer. |
Refurbishment project
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There will be more than plants to enjoy when major makeovers are completed at two of Taranaki’s iconic public gardens.
Hollard Gardens, at Kaponga on the southern flanks of Mount Taranaki, and Tupare, on the outskirts of New Plymouth, are getting far more than a TV-style quick fix as management plans are implemented at both properties.
Both owned by the Taranaki Regional Council, they are getting comprehensive upgrades including garden refurbishment, improved facilities and opportunities for visitors to learn about the lives of people in days gone by.
Tupare is a delightful landscaped garden with a foundation in the arts and crafts style of the early 20th Century. It features a James Chapman-Taylor house that is being refurbished and will be open to the public once work is complete in April next year.
Visitors will learn about the vision and passion of the Matthews family, who developed the property, and gain an insight into the lives of European pioneers. The stories will not be limited to the garden but will also cover the industries Sir Russell Matthews was involved in (he laid the first bitumen road in New Zealand), the lives of immigrant labour and their families, and fashions and lifestyles of the day.
Hollard Gardens dates from the same era but has a different historical and botanical mix. Here visitors will learn about people as well as plants, and about the clearing of the land for farming in the 1880s.
They will also learn about the extraordinarily determined and dedicated Bernie Hollard, who from 1927 until his death in 1996 gardened with patience and skill, leaving a wonderful legacy to the people of Taranaki and indeed the whole nation.
The name Hollard has become synonymous with gardening to enthusiasts throughout New Zealand and overseas. For many years it has been on their list of important places to visit. Much improvement has already taken place and the gardens are a delight to experience now.
There may be some construction work in various corners throughout the summer and this is always fascinating to watch as it develops.
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Tupare
A stunning view of Mount Taranaki from a new lookout at Tupare.
The James Chapman-Taylor house at Tupare, set for refurbishment.
Taranaki Regional Councillors and senior management on an inspection tour of Tupare. |
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Many delights await the visitor to Tupare.
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Hollard Gardens
Hollard Gardens character.
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Stunning colour at Hollard Gardens
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Hollard Gardens has always been a popular venue.
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Location map
Tupare |
Hollard Gardens |
| 487 Mangorei Rd |
1686 Upper Manaia Rd |
| New Plymouth |
Kaponga |
| Open 9am - 5pm daily |
Open 9am-5pm daily |
| Admission free |
Admission free |
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Click here for information about Pukeiti |
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