While we've mainly been stationed in Auckland for the past few months, we've occasionally ventured out for day trips. One highly recommended excursion was to the Gardens in the city of Hamilton, about an hour away. We visited about a month ago and were instantly captivated, quickly grasping why these gardens receive such rave reviews.
What sets these gardens apart is their emphasis on highlighting the cultural significance and historical context of gardens spanning over the past 4,000 years. Initially conceived as a land reclamation project on a former rubbish dump, the gardens have evolved since the 1980s, incorporating and expanding different garden types over time. (Paraphrased/sourced here.)
Before our visit (and my subsequent online research about the garden's history to draft the preceding paragraph), 😊 we had few expectations or context. Consequently, stumbling upon them and navigating their layout was a delightful surprise. We meandered through a myriad of garden styles, beginning with an English Flower Garden near the entrance, which matched what we thought would be the typical garden throughout. However, as we continued, each turn revealed a new and distinct offering. The bamboo forests in the Chinese Scholars' Garden evoked memories of our time in the Kyoto/Arashiyama Bamboo grove. Further along, we chuckled at the "modern" garden adorned with HIP sculptures of Marilyn Monroe and aesthetically striking, geometric statues.
Another corner led us to the Indian Char Bagh Garden, where our delight peaked upon encountering a group of traditional dancers performing. We paused for a few minutes to take in the spectacle. The fountain at the heart of the Italian Renaissance Garden triggered memories of the fountain in the Alhambra. Asher found joy (prompting thoughts of Alice in Wonderland) in the Tudor Gardens. And so the day unfolded...
Our visit culminated at a charming playground, featuring a series of birdhouses and labyrinthine play areas.
I envision returning one day alone, relishing hours of uninterrupted writing and simply being. Additionally, I'm already daydreaming of returning with guests in tow. All in all, it was a truly wonderful day.
McBroom Family Favorite Gardens:
Charlie: Chinese Scholars’ Garden
Ellie: Surrealist Garden
Asher: Tudor Garden
Moss: Chinoiserie Garden (*because of the peacock hiding in the bushes here, which is still a source of memory-revelry for Moss)
Andrea: Cool blimp in Braithwaite Court
Comments