Otari-Wilton's Bush

Otari-Wilton’s Bush is a 100-hectare native botanic garden and forest reserve at 150 Wilton Road in Wellington. Its collection includes more than 1,200 New Zealand plant species grown from seeds or cuttings gathered on the mainland and offshore islands. Marked tracks cross forest, gardens and streamside areas, while the free canopy walkway leads to a lookout. Look for some of Wellington’s oldest trees, including a rimu estimated to be 800 years old, and watch for eels in the Kaiwharawhara stream.

A garden devoted to native plants

Otari-Wilton’s Bush brings a botanic garden and a forest reserve together across 100 hectares. It is the only public garden in New Zealand dedicated solely to native plant life. Its collection holds more than 1,200 native species, cultivars and hybrids, grown largely from seeds and cuttings collected on the mainland and offshore islands.

The garden’s purpose includes preserving indigenous plants and helping people identify them. Look closely along the tracks for ferns such as blechnum, then follow the vegetation upward to the taller trees. Some of Wellington’s oldest trees grow here, including a rimu estimated to be 800 years old.

Tracks, streams and the canopy walkway

Marked walks pass through forest, gardens and open areas, with routes suited to different levels of effort. Some head towards higher ground and clearings; others follow the valley streams. The Kaiwharawhara stream is a place to watch for eels. A free canopy walkway climbs among the trees and connects with a lookout.

The Wilton Road car park, Information Centre, canopy walkway and part of Wilton Walkway form an accessible route to a viewing platform. Other sections can be slippery after rain, so hiking boots are useful if you plan to explore beyond the accessible paths. Picnic areas give you a place to take a break; guided tours are another way to learn about the collection and its conservation.