Discover Serenity at Rapaura Watergardens: A Hidden Gem on New Zealand’s Coromandel Peninsula

Nestled within the lush embrace of the Coromandel Forest Park, Rapaura Watergardens offers a sanctuary where nature’s artistry and human creativity intertwine. Spanning 64 acres of New Zealand regenerating bush, award-winning estate invites visitors to immerse themselves in tranquility and explore winding trails, all while surrounded by the symphony of native birds and cascading waterfalls.

The property is the Coromandel’s only 5-star ‘Garden of National Significance’ as awarded by the New Zealand Gardens Trust, is consistently ranked as the ‘No. 1 attraction in Thames’ by Trip Advisor and is recommended by international travel guides.

Rapaura is a living tapestry of native ferns, towering trees, and vibrant seasonal blooms. Wander through meandering paths that lead past lily-filled ponds in season, over charming bridges, and into the heart of a rainforest where the “Seven Stairs to Heaven” waterfall cascades into crystal-clear streams. Seasonal displays dazzle year-round: irises and rhododendrons in spring, hydrangeas and water lilies in summer, and sculptural ponga (tree fern) artworks that dot the landscape .

Discover unique installations like the Genesa crystal, believed to harmonize energy, and Ian Trousdell’s mesmerizing water sculptures .

While the the café, Koru,
remains closed temporarily, Rapaura’s charming self-catering lodgings are open and ready to welcome guests. Choose between ‘The Lodge’ a rustic two-story haven crafted from native Rimu and Cedar or ‘The Cottage’ . After the gardens close to the public at 5 PM, the entire estate becomes your private sanctuary. Enjoy summer BBQs, winter evenings curled up by the fireplace, or stargazing from your secluded deck—all without the distraction of television and wifi, replaced instead by the soothing sounds of water.

Entry fees are affordable ($15 adults, $6 children, $35 family),

*”A garden full of inspiration—food for the soul.”*