Nature
Follow the 2km walking trail that winds its’ way through a landscape of ponds, cliffs, rocks and flowing shrubs which have all been created from a former quarry site. Catch a glimpse of New Zealand birdlife in a natural habitat and experience the tranquility that only nature can provide with over 20 thousand trees and plants from around the world.
Rehabilitation & Transformation
A derelict former quarry has been transformed through this rehabilitation project. After more than 30 years of planting it is now an arboretum that includes many native New Zealand species as well as rare trees and shrubs from around the world.
Global Diversity & Tree Collection
As New Zealand is blessed with a mild climate, it provides conditions for a diverse range of plant species to grow.
The arboretum has sourced and planted trees and shrubs that represent flora of many parts of the world. These have been grouped together predominantly in geographical areas: Latin American, Asian, Australian, American, and New Zealand natives.
Carbon Sequestration
The New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) is the Government’s main tool for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
By 2011 planting of the derelict quarry was well- underway so the Park was able to qualify under the government’s Permanent Forest Sink Initiative (PFSI) as the trees were already playing a significant role in absorbing carbon and slowing the rate of climate change.
Return of Birdlife
The park adopted the RURU (our native owl /morepork) as its emblem because the Waitakaruru Stream flows through the park. Waitakaruru means owl by the water in Maori. Several rescued ruru have been released here in the park to add to the genetic diversity of our population.
The Portal Project
The Portal Project shows that from destruction of nature there can be new life. Conifer Canyon which was destroyed in Cyclone Gabrielle and what was once a stretch of strong trees and vegetation became a barren sad stretch of land.
Marcus Tatton is creating a new art piece using the destroyed trees and giving a new meaning to the area with the Portal Project.
60 Seconds with John
Welcome to John’s 60 Second Botanical Highlights. Step into the captivating world of John Wakeling, the Sculpture Park Arboretum’s esteemed curator of over three decades.
With boundless knowledge and an infectious charm, John effortlessly unveils the secrets of our botanical treasures, one plant at a time. Each one-minute video is a journey through the heart of the Arboretum, where John’s clever insights and warm personality shine through.