Explore Wellington’s Premier Native Plant Sanctuary at Otari-Wilton’s Bush
Otari-Wilton’s Bush stands as a treasured natural reserve in Wellington, renowned for being the only public garden dedicated exclusively to New Zealand’s native plants. This expansive park features a network of well-maintained walking tracks suitable for all fitness levels, from gentle strolls to challenging hikes. Visitors often highlight the peaceful environment, with opportunities to spot native wildlife like large local eels along the Kaiwharawhara stream. The canopy walkway offers breathtaking views, immersing walkers in the lush forest canopy.
The park is thoughtfully equipped with educational signage that enriches the experience by sharing fascinating facts about New Zealand’s unique flora. Amenities such as a visitor center, picnic areas, BBQ spots, public washrooms, and parking enhance the comfort of every visit. Recognized as a must-see destination, Otari-Wilton’s Bush perfectly blends recreation, education, and natural beauty, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists seeking to connect deeply with nature.
Add Review
Read More Reviews
Bernard Savage
a week agoI go walking here every day - love it There are various traced and maintained paths throughout the park. Most are relatively easy but some are marked red and can be steep and sometimes slippy underfoot. From the visitors centre at the main entrance there are various options including a circular walk a fern garden or a canopy walk. All the trails head down to the Kaiwharawhara stream where - if you are lucky you can spot large local eels. Walking down to the Native Botanic Garden there is a steep stepped path down to the stream which passes by a waterfall. This is a place to explore at leisure with numerous walks and picnic areas.
megan paisley
4 months agoLovely place to walk. It would be nice if there were a few more bins, especially down by the B.B.Q area
Ang 20’12
7 months agoPeaceful spot in Wellington, perfect for anyone who loves nature. It’s the only public garden in NZ that focuses on native plants, making it a special place to explore. The walking tracks are great, with options for all fitness levels. Whether you wnat an easy walks or a. Longer. Hike, there is some for everyone. The canopy walkway is amazing, giving you beautiful views of the forest and a chance to feel surrounded by nature. There is lots of signs along the paths that teach you about New Zealand’s plants. So it’s a fun place to learn as well. The gardens are very well cared for and full of interesting plants and facts. It’s a great spot for quiet walk , there is a picnic area where you and sit and also two BBQ spots near stream area or just relaxing. There is public washroom and parking at the entrance. This is place is a must see if you’re in Wellington. It’s lovely way to enjoy the outdoors and learn more about New Zealand plants. There are 4-5 tracks where u can .
Harman Gill
a month agoWellington locals will know this spot – Otari-Wilton’s Bush – one of the best native gardens in NZ 🥝
Moana Ormsby
7 months agoTook the mokopuna (7 and 4) on a walk today to blow off some energy. Ōtarikākā was the perfect place. We spent the windy afternoon exploring the paths and lookouts and plan to go back on a nicer day with a picnic . There were a few young families about which was lovely to see and the visitors center had some great information and fun, simple activities for them. Nothing like a kid to remind you of the magic of a pile of rocks that are home to native lizards or the tangle of vines hanging from trees taller than the moon 🌙 a zero cost activity that created pretty cool memories for 2 now very tired mokopuna. Go and thank me later.