Hollard Gardens Walks

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

What makes Hollard Gardens truly special is the legacy of its founders, Bernie and Rose Hollard. Bernie was a legendary plantsman, and his influence is visible in every corner of the property.

• The Rhododendron Collection: Bernie had a particular soft spot for rhododendrons and camellias. You’ll see an incredible array of species and hybrids here. Keep an eye out for the 'R. Kaponga', a vibrant variety that Bernie bred himself right here on this soil.
• The Swamp: Don't let the name fool you! In the springtime, this area is transformed into a dramatic, high-colour spectacle. It’s a masterclass in how to use "wet" land to create something breathtakingly beautiful.
• Bernie’s Home Garden: This is a highlight for the green-fingered visitors. It’s an educational hub focused on sustainable living. You can wander through organic vegetable beds, see the poultry and bees in action, and even check out the worm farms. It’s incredibly inspiring to see a "working" garden that provides food as well as beauty.
• The Family Corner: If you have little ones in tow, this is the place to be. There is a fantastic playground and free barbecue areas. It’s the perfect spot to set up camp for a few hours, cook some lunch, and let the kids burn off some energy while you soak in the surroundings.
• Mount Taranaki Views: There are several points along the walk where the garden opens up to provide a perfect frame for the mountain. It’s a photographer's dream, especially in the late afternoon when the light hits the snow-capped peak.

Getting There

Hollard Gardens is located at 1686 Upper Manaia Road, Kaponga, right in the thick of Taranaki’s beautiful rural landscape.

The drive itself is a classic Taranaki experience—rolling green hills, black-and-white cows, and the mountain looming larger as you get closer. There is plenty of free parking available at the main carpark.

A fantastic bonus for those travelling in motorhomes: campervans are welcome to park overnight for free at the carpark. This makes it a wonderful, quiet base for exploring the southern side of the Egmont National Park or the nearby town of Stratford.

Wildlife Spotting

As you walk, keep your ears open. The gardens are a haven for native birdlife, thanks to the sheer diversity of flowering plants and seed-bearing trees that Bernie planted over the decades.

• Tūī: You’ll hear their distinctive bells and whistles year-round. They are particularly active when the nectar-rich flowers are in bloom.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to follow you along the bushier sections of the track, flitting about to catch the insects disturbed by your footsteps.
• Kererū (New Zealand Wood Pigeon): Look up into the larger trees. You might hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them. They love the berries found in the more mature sections of the Old Garden.
• Riroriro (Grey Warbler): Their long, trilling song is a constant soundtrack to the walk, though these tiny birds are often quite hard to spot amongst the foliage.

The best time for birdwatching is usually early morning or late afternoon when the garden is at its quietest and the birds are most active in their search for food.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

Hollard Gardens is a "four seasons" destination, with each month bringing a new personality to the landscape.

• Spring (September – November): This is arguably the peak time to visit. The rhododendrons and camellias are in full, riotous bloom, and the 'Swamp' area is a kaleidoscope of colour.
• Autumn (March – May): The deciduous trees put on a spectacular show. The garden "ignites" with shades of gold, orange, and deep red, making for incredibly picturesque walks.
• Summer (December – February): The garden provides a cool, shady retreat from the Taranaki sun. It’s the best time for a family BBQ and a picnic on the lawns.
• Winter (June – August): While quieter, the garden remains captivating. The structure of the trees is more visible, and the winter-flowering species provide vital food for the tūī.

• Comfortable walking shoes: While the track is easy, you’ll want decent footwear for the grassy sections, especially if there has been recent rain.
• Sun protection: Parts of the New Garden are quite open, so a hat and sunscreen are essential in the summer.
• A camera: You will want to capture the floral displays and the mountain views.
• A picnic: With free BBQs and plenty of tables, it’s a shame not to eat outdoors here.

Weather considerations: Being in the shadow of Mount Taranaki, the weather can change quickly. Even if it looks clear, a light rain jacket is always a good idea. The area can also experience some wind, though the established trees in the Old Garden provide excellent shelter.

Local & Regional Context

The story of Hollard Gardens is a quintessential New Zealand tale of grit and passion. Bernie Hollard began transforming this patch of Taranaki bush and paddock in 1927. He was a pioneer in his field, and his dedication to horticulture was so great that the gardens were eventually gifted to the Queen Elizabeth II National Trust in the 1980s. Today, they are managed by the Taranaki Regional Council, ensuring Bernie’s legacy remains open for everyone to enjoy.

Kaponga itself is a small, friendly dairy-farming village. The area is deeply connected to the land, and the gardens serve as a bridge between the wild beauty of the nearby Egmont National Park and the productive farmland that surrounds it. For the local Māori, the relationship with the land and the Mounga is sacred, and you can feel that sense of respect for nature throughout the meticulously cared-for grounds.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and perhaps had a cheeky snooze on the lawn, you might be looking for a caffeine hit or a bite to eat.

• Kaponga Village: Just a short drive away, you’ll find the local dairy and small-town services. It’s great for a quick ice cream or a cold drink.
• The Shakee Pear (Stratford): About a 15-20 minute drive away in Stratford, this is a local favourite. It’s located near another beautiful park (King’s Park) and offers fantastic coffee and hearty Kiwi cafe food—perfect for refuelling after a walk.
• Eltham Cheese Shop: If you’re heading back towards State Highway 3, stop in Eltham to pick up some world-famous Taranaki cheese. It’s a great way to take a taste of the region home with you.

Hollard Gardens is more than just a 1.3km walk; it’s an invitation to slow down, breathe in the fresh Taranaki air, and appreciate the incredible things that can happen when humans and nature work together for nearly a century. Whether you're a serious gardener or just someone who needs a peaceful escape, this loop will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.