Eastwoodhill Arboretum: The National Arboretum of New Zealand

Eastwoodhill Arboretum, the national arboretum of New Zealand, is a must-visit destination. Located 35 km northwest of Gisborne, it features over 4,000 tree and shrub species, including many rare and endangered varieties. As you explore its numerous walking trails, you'll enjoy breathtaking views and spot diverse wildlife, from birds to unique plants. The arboretum also offers facilities like a café, picnic areas, and educational activities for all ages. Don't miss the chance to learn about its rich history and environmental conservation efforts that contribute to its beauty. There's so much more to discover about this remarkable gem!

Major Highlights

• Eastwoodhill Arboretum, established in 1910, is recognized as the National Arboretum of New Zealand, showcasing over 4,000 tree and shrub species.
• It features significant collections of Northern Hemisphere trees, including 270 taxa of Camellia and 220 taxa of Rhododendron.
• The arboretum is situated in the Ngatapa hill country, offering scenic views of Mount Hikurangi and Te Urewera peaks.
• Visitors can explore multiple walking trails, including accessible paths, catering to varying fitness levels and providing stunning panoramas.
• The arboretum promotes biodiversity and education through guided tours, discovery activities, and community engagement programs for all ages.

Location and Access

Eastwoodhill Arboretum is conveniently located just 35 km northwest of Gisborne, nestled in the picturesque hill country of Ngatapa.

Getting there's straightforward with several access routes available. If you're traveling from Gisborne, head on State Highway 2 (SH2) towards Napier. At the Waipaoa River bridge roundabout, take the third exit onto Wharekopae Road. You'll spot the Eastwoodhill signpost about 50 meters down, so keep an eye out!

Continue on Wharekopae Road for 23 km, following the brown tourist signs for final directions.

If you're coming from Napier, simply follow the signs to Gisborne, cross the Waipaoa River bridge, and continue straight through the roundabout.

For those approaching from Opotiki, travel south on SH2, then transition onto Laverham Road, and follow the signs to Wharekopae Road.

Once you arrive, you'll find a newly constructed entrance offering safer access, thanks to the Gisborne Rotary Club.

Parking is available near the visitor centre, which provides essential visitor information.

Enjoy the well-maintained walkways leading to various facilities, including the Discovery Centre and accommodations for a comfortable stay.

History and Founding

Established in 1910, the arboretum's history is rooted in the vision of William Douglas Cook, who sought to transform 250 hectares of dry, barren Poverty Bay hill country into a lush, wooded paradise. Inspired by British parks and gardens, Cook's founding vision aimed to create a haven of biodiversity and beauty.

However, the journey was fraught with early challenges, including the initial costs of £55,000 for establishing the arboretum. Despite these obstacles, Cook devoted his life to this ambitious project after World War I, ensuring its development continued.

Key figures played a vital role in the arboretum's establishment:

1. Bill Williams – Purchased the property in 1965 and established the Eastwoodhill Trust Board to secure its future.
2. Bob Berry – Assisted with planting and created a detailed catalogue of the arboretum's plantings.
3. Bill Crooks – Helped maintain and restore the grounds after Cook's health declined.

The trust formalized in 1975 aimed to protect the arboretum from being converted back into farmland, ensuring that Cook's vision would endure for future generations.

Collections and Plantings

At Eastwoodhill Arboretum, you'll discover an impressive diversity of over 4,000 tree and shrub species.

Among these, you'll find 170 endangered species, highlighting the arboretum's commitment to conservation.

This unique collection not only showcases native New Zealand flora but also features a significant variety from the Northern Hemisphere.

Diverse Tree Taxa

With over 3,600 taxa of Northern Hemisphere trees, the diverse collections at the arboretum showcase a remarkable range of species adapted to temperate climates.

This extensive variety not only highlights the intricacies of tree taxonomy but also emphasizes the ecological significance of preserving such biodiversity. Many of these trees, some over a century old, were imported from renowned nurseries, contributing to a unique assemblage of flora.

Here are three notable tree genera within the collection:

1. Camellia: Approximately 270 taxa, enriching the landscape with stunning blooms.
2. Rhododendron: Contains 220 taxa alongside 250 azaleas, adding vibrant colors in spring.
3. Acer: Encompasses 90 taxa, showcasing the beauty of maples.

The arboretum's management plan focuses on maintaining these collections, ensuring that the trees thrive for future generations.

Current strategies involve cataloging, enhancing the planting layout, and collaborating with the community. By doing so, Eastwoodhill not only preserves its rich diversity but also educates visitors on the importance of tree conservation and the role these species play in their ecosystems.

Endangered Species Collection

The Eastwoodhill Arboretum also plays a vital role in conserving endangered tree species, housing a remarkable collection that includes 170 species listed on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (I.U.C.N.) world endangered list. This collection represents the largest assembly of Northern Hemisphere trees south of the equator, with unique specimens like the Wollemi Pine, known for its ancient lineage.

The arboretum's conservation efforts are bolstered by New Zealand's stringent bio-security regulations, creating an ideal environment for cultivating these rare species. With a 100-year Masterplan developed by Nelson Byrd Woltz Landscape Architects, the focus remains on protecting biodiversity and enhancing educational resources.

Here's a glimpse of some endangered species in the collection:

Through these conservation efforts, Eastwoodhill Arboretum ensures a lasting legacy for endangered species.

Facilities and Activities

Eastwoodhill Arboretum offers a variety of facilities and activities designed to enhance your visit and ensure a memorable experience. With ample visitor amenities, you'll find everything you need for a comfortable day out.

From educational programs to group activities, there's something for everyone.

Here are three key facilities to take advantage of during your visit:

1. Café: Open daily from 10 am to 3 pm, it serves delicious food and Far East coffee in a stunning setting.
2. Children's Playground: Located beneath the Visitor Centre, this space offers designated areas for both preschoolers and adventurous kids.
3. Conference Facilities: Perfect for seminars, retreats, or team-building events, these venues come equipped with necessary technology to meet your needs.

Whether you're looking for a peaceful picnic spot or planning a group event, Eastwoodhill Arboretum provides the perfect backdrop.

With options for accommodation, catering, and customized group bookings, your experience can be tailored to suit your needs.

Come explore the rich offerings and make the most of your time at this beautiful arboretum!

Walking Trails

Exploring the walking trails at Eastwoodhill Arboretum offers a refreshing way to immerse yourself in nature's beauty. With multiple colour-coded trails—Brown, Green, Purple, Yellow, Red, and Blue—you'll find options that cater to all levels of fitness and ability.

Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a steep climb, these trails provide varied trail difficulty to suit everyone.

The Brown Walk is an easy to moderate 2.3km loop that showcases coniferous and deciduous plantings, while the Green Walk spans 5.1km with a moderate to steep grade through diverse landscapes.

If you're up for a bit of a challenge, the Purple Walk and Yellow Walk offer extended options that include stunning views.

Trail accessibility is also considered, with some paths marked as wheelchair-friendly, allowing everyone to enjoy the beauty of the arboretum.

You'll find all trails clearly signposted, and maps are available at the Visitor Centre to help you navigate.

Remember to check the weather, as some trails can get uncomfortably hot in the sun.

Enjoy your adventure in this beautiful natural setting!

Scenic Views

Gazing out from the highest points of the arboretum, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the landscape. From here, you can see the majestic Mount Hikurangi, often cloaked in snow during winter, alongside the striking peaks of Te Urewera.

The contrast between the lush tree-covered slopes and the rugged grassy farmland enhances your experience, providing countless photographic opportunities.

As you explore the arboretum, don't miss these three highlights:

1. Key Viewing Points: Utilize the plane table on the top ridge to identify significant landmarks.
2. Seasonal Changes: Experience the vibrant autumn hues of oaks and maples, or the delicate blooms of spring with daffodils and flowering trees.
3. Distinct Parks: Discover the unique charm of parks like Corner Park and Douglas Park, each offering its own scenic features.

With its varied plantings, including over 4,000 different taxa, the arboretum provides stunning views year-round, ensuring that every visit reveals something new and beautiful.

Whether it's the lush summer greens or the fiery autumn colors, every season brings its own allure.

Wildlife Encounters

Visitors to Eastwoodhill Arboretum often find themselves immersed in a vibrant tapestry of wildlife encounters. With around 40 species of native and exotic birds flitting through the trees, you're in for a treat.

Spring and summer bring the melodic calls of shining cuckoo, bellbirds, and tui, making it a prime time for birdwatching. To enhance your experience, remember these birdwatching tips: stay quiet, blend into your surroundings, and look for movement in the foliage.

As you explore, keep your camera ready for wildlife photography. The kereru, known for feasting on wild cherries, not only delights the eyes but also plays a crucial role in spreading seeds throughout the arboretum.

The diverse menu of seeds, insects, and berries sustains this vibrant ecosystem, showcasing the interconnectedness of flora and fauna.

While enjoying the wildlife, you might notice pest management efforts, like the control of wasps and possums, which ensure a healthy environment for the trees and wildlife.

Embrace the beauty and harmony of Eastwoodhill, where every visit promises a rich connection to nature and its inhabitants.

Educational Opportunities

At Eastwoodhill Arboretum, educational opportunities abound, making it an ideal destination for learners of all ages. You'll find various programs designed to foster interactive learning and nature exploration. Here are three key offerings:

1. Discovery Centre: This facility features informative boards about plants, seasons, and historical artefacts. The interactive area is perfect for children, allowing them to play and learn about nature in a fun environment.
2. Guided Tours: Led by knowledgeable staff, these tours last about 40 minutes and can be tailored to fit your group's schedule. They provide fascinating insights into the arboretum's 25,000 plants and trees while accommodating all fitness levels.
3. Curriculum Alignment: The educational activities here align with various curriculum areas, promoting holistic learning. Orienteering activities are available for all ages, integrating seamlessly into school programs.

With facilities like the Visitor Centre and picnic areas, Eastwoodhill ensures a comprehensive educational experience.

Whether you're visiting for a school trip or a family outing, you'll leave with newfound knowledge and a deeper connection to nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Opening Hours of Eastwoodhill Arboretum?

You can visit the arboretum on weekdays from 8 am to 4:30 pm and weekends from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Enjoy guided tours and seasonal events during your visit for a memorable experience.

Is There an Entrance Fee to Visit the Arboretum?

Did you know that group bookings can save you money? The entrance fee varies, with ticket options like $12-$15 for adults and $2 for children. Consider family rates at $28 for a budget-friendly visit!

Are Dogs Allowed in the Arboretum?

Dogs aren't allowed in the arboretum due to strict dog policies. To respect the environment and maintain pet etiquette, you must leave your pets outside the grounds while enjoying the beautiful surroundings and activities available.

Can I Bring a Picnic to the Arboretum?

Why not enjoy a relaxing day outdoors? You can absolutely bring your own picnic! With various scenic picnic spots available, you'll find plenty of food options to savor while surrounded by beautiful nature.

Is the Arboretum Wheelchair Accessible?

The arboretum offers some accessibility options, but it doesn't provide comprehensive wheelchair facilities. You'll find a wheelchair-accessible Jeep for tours, while specific trails and areas may not be suitable for all visitors.

Conclusion

Visiting Eastwoodhill Arboretum is like stepping into a living tapestry, where every tree and plant tells a story. You'll find a peaceful retreat filled with vibrant colors and diverse wildlife, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers. Whether you're exploring the scenic trails, soaking in the views, or engaging in educational programs, every moment spent here deepens your connection to New Zealand's unique flora. Don't miss out on this botanical treasure; it's a journey worth taking!