Pukeiti

About this place

Pukeiti is a 360-hectare mountain property at 2290 Carrington Road, around 23km south of New Plymouth, sitting between Mount Taranaki and the coast and adjoining the national park. It holds one of the biggest and most diverse rhododendron collections in the southern hemisphere, planted through and around rainforest.

The garden was established in 1951 by Douglas Cook, of Eastwoodhill Arboretum, and others who formed the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust. It is now owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council alongside Tūpare and Hollard Gardens. Flowering begins in July with large-leaf rhododendrons in the rainforest canopy, followed by camellias and large magnolias, then herbaceous plantings, alpines, primulas, hostas and bulbs, giant Himalayan lilies in December, and hydrangeas peaking in mid-summer and into autumn. Vireya rhododendrons flower several times a year in the covered Vireya Walk. The predator-free rainforest supports thriving birdlife including tui, bellbird, kererū, fantail, waxeye and cuckoo.

The property is open daily from 9am to 5pm with free entry, and there is no charge to walk the many kilometres of formed tracks. Along the way there is a waterwheel, sculptures, a swing bridge and treehouses, plus a treehouse trail activity for children. The Rainforest Eatery serves lunches and snacks with panoramic views; check opening days before relying on it.

For functions, the Rainforest Centre and the Lodge are both bookable. The Lodge is a warm indoor space with a stone fireplace, listed for a maximum of 49 guests, which suits a small conference, workshop or reception. Catering is available and there is both indoor and outdoor space to work with. Limited on-site accommodation exists in the Studio and the Pīwakawaka Family Hut. There is a carpark, wheelchair access and toilets, and the property is Qualmark rated.

Bookings are made by arrangement with the Taranaki Regional Council, and planners should note the garden stays open to the public during hire. Pukeiti suits small strategy offsites, board retreats, incentive and partner programmes, and conference day trips where the rainforest walks double as the team activity.