Discover the transformation of an old quarry into a 5-star Garden of National Significance as designated by the New Zealand Gardens Trust. Transformed over 25 years from a former shingle quarry into a masterpiece. Explore the tapestry beech walk, vibrant maples, roses, junipers, and unique artworks throughout the garden. $15

​203 Jowers Road, West Melton

Open: Thursday, Friday and Monday by appointment ahead of visit

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This homestead and garden date from the late 1850s and are now cared for and loved by Kate Foster. There is a lovely collection of historic trees cleverly underplanted with woodland perennials. Masses of snowdrops, hellebores, primulas and violets, to name a few, romp in vast drifts. The Hutch, a 1938 summerhouse, displays old gardening tools and has information about the property. Run by a charitable trust, the charge is $15 per head for a guided tour of the garden.

*Win a visit to Terrace Station

Open: Friday 10am, 12noon, 2pm only - by appointment ahead of visit

A large township garden immaculately presented and craftily designed. Year-round interest is ensured. Featuring rhododendrons, deciduous azaleas, special trees and shrubs as well as roses with generous under-planting. Other features include a raised vegetable garden, alpine rockery, obelisks, garden sculpture, rill and fountain courtyard, all perfectly formed and artfully crafted.$10

​​211 Halkett Road, Halkett Grove, West Melton 7618

Open: Thursday, Friday and Monday by appointment ahead of visit​

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Developed over 30 years, with an emphasis on design and a variety of planting schemes. This huge garden has an amazing collection of plants, vistas and garden rooms. A winter garden, rose and peony garden, walled vegetable garden, Mediterranean garden, ponds as well as rock and trough gardens. Only available on Thursday or Friday morning. $20

Adams Road West Melton, 7671

Open: Thursday, Friday am only - by appointment  ahead of visit

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3.5 hectares of inspired design. A 6-star National Trust Garden of International Significance, showcasing New Zealand natives and locally bred plants of all types. Explore the kauri forest, viewing mound, formal borders, canal, and more. David Hobbs will be happy to share his knowledge and experience with you. Monday to Friday 8am to 4.30pm. $20

**Buy  Botanical Expo Special Broadfield ticket at $15.50

250 Selwyn Road, Rolleston 7678

Two-hectare garden established in 1939, thoughtfully managed with a strong focus on sustainability, rich in birdlife and working in harmony with the natural environment. Known for its
woodland areas, deep perennial borders, rhododendrons and rose garden, the garden includes open lawns with specimen trees, native forest plantings, a rockery, vegetable garden and orchard, with seasonal interest throughout the year. Visitors are also welcome to view the small working area, including the potting shed, shade house and propagation area. $10.00​

​505 Deans Road, Darfield

Open: Thursday and Friday by appointment ahead of visit

A beautifully designed garden designated a Garden of National Significance by the New Zealand Gardens Trust, Margaret Long, the creator, will be there to welcome you. Much thought has gone into the placement of plant combinations, their colour, the short and long-distance views and the filtering of light, created by judicious pruning. Year-round interest. $15

​139 Old Tai Tapu Rd,Christchurch 8025

Open: Friday, Sunday and Monday by appointment ahead of visit