Waipahihi Botanical Reserve — Attraction in North Island

These gardens are unlike any other botanical gardens that I've been to. It's not the seemingly normal open park with a few bits of bush and or rose gardens. Perhaps an Avery or a fish pond. Even some associated sports field. No, this place is almost natural on its own terms.

Through the entrance gates, the road narrows, and you leave Taupo and all the issues of your day behind you.

The narrow one way road twists through the native bush, very reminiscent of back country NZ. Every so often you come across parking options, benches, water supply, picnic spots and walkways.

I didn't see any rubbish bins, or rubbish, so congrats to all the visitors who clearly value this gem and leave only footprints when they visit.

The walking tracks feel very like a maze. But you can't get lost, and if you did, well just enjoy the peace, the bird song and all the beautiful trees.

Such an asset to the town. Like us, ...

We loved our visit to this free reserve as always. We had not been for around 3 years.It is a "must do" when we visit Taupo. Pristine, clean natural and peaceful. Beautiful trees. There were very few camellias out. They will be in full bloom soon, if not now. Azaleas and rhododendrons will be coming up to flowering too. You can drive through the reserve so it is ideal for those who have mobility issues. We saw walkers with their dogs (on leads). We could see inviting trails leading off to the side. There is even a big beautiful green space (like a park within a park) ideal for family picnics and where children could run. There is a donation box at the exit. A super experience and every donation how big or small counts to keep this reserve open for EVERYONE! A huge congrats to all the people who volunteer their time to keep this treasure open now and for future...

A must see and visit when in Taupo or even passing by, easy access from the bypass road and anywhere within Taupo. Very beautiful Botanical gardens and native, struck at it's best as the Rhododendrons and Azaleas were in their majestic bloom. The Camellias were just finishing flowering. The Native bush, trees and ferns and pongas behind these flowering plants-trees are also very well established and majestic, great place for the peace and quiet in beautiful settings, great for walks and exercise runs etc. At the top there are amazingly beautiful views out over the lake with the central mountains in all their glory on a clear day, plus generally views in about a 270...