Woodlands Estate receives five-star rating for its garden presentation

The gardens at Woodlands Estate have again been recognised for their historic character and unique identity.

The estate has received a 5 Star Garden of National Significance status.

The rating, awarded every three years by New Zealand Gardens Trust, recognises gardens for their presentation, design and plant interest throughout the year.

“This is a phenomenal achievement, and I would like to acknowledge the blood, sweat, tears and hours of hard work that our gardening team have put in,” says Waikato District Council Community Venues and Events Team Leader, Samantha Baker.

“The passion of our three gardeners – Tertius, Kevin and Mi-Claire – shines through in the outcomes that we’ve achieved.”

Gardens awarded this rating must also have a distinctive identity of their own, a character that gives them an edge, and may have special features that may appeal to those with special interests.

Woodlands was commended for maintaining the historic character of much of the gardens, specifically the trees, informal plantings of shrubs and ground covers.

Waikato District Council owns the land used for Woodlands Historic Homestead and Estate, which is supported by the Gordonton Woodlands Trust Board.

“Council would like to acknowledge and thank the Trust for their ongoing support and partnership,” adds Ms Baker.

“The outcomes we achieve together are stand out pieces and Trust input was vital for our success.”

Woodlands was also named as Outstanding Wedding Ceremony Venue for 2022 at the New Zealand Wedding Industry Awards.

You can visit the Gardens from Monday to Sunday, 9am to 3:30pm. Find out more on the Woodlands website.