Discover the Eastwoodhill National Arboretum
Located east of Gisborne, Turanganui-a-Kiwa Poverty Bay on East Cape, the Eastwoodhill National Arboretum is New Zealand's largest collection of exotic trees. This living museum showcases species from around the world, creating a unique landscape that transforms dramatically with the seasons. Autumn brings particularly striking colour displays as mature deciduous trees shift through brilliant reds, oranges, and golds.
What to Expect
The arboretum spans 135 hectares and contains approximately 4,000 tree, shrub, and climber species from temperate regions worldwide. The collection represents one of the most comprehensive assemblages of Northern Hemisphere woody plants in the Southern Hemisphere. Many specimens have reached maturity, creating an established forest environment that provides insight into how these exotic species adapt to New Zealand conditions.
The historic one-hectare homestead garden, established in 1910, is a focal point of the property. This garden area features mature plantings and provides a more intimate experience compared to the expansive forest sections. Throughout the grounds, you'll encounter rare and endangered species; 170 species listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature are represented in the collection.
The diversity extends beyond trees to include significant collections of magnolias, maples, oaks, and conifers. Each season reveals different aspects of the collection, from spring blossoms to summer foliage and autumn colours, making repeat visits worthwhile throughout the year.
Exploring the Gardens
Several walking trails wind through the arboretum, most rated as easy. The paths take you through different sections of the collection, allowing you to experience the variety of plantings and forest environments. Trail lengths vary, giving you options for short strolls or longer explorations depending on your available time.
Photographers will find abundant subjects, particularly during Autumn when the colour palette is at its most dramatic. The combination of mature trees, varied terrain, and changing light conditions throughout the day creates diverse photographic opportunities.
History
Douglas Cook founded the arboretum in the early 20th century, driven by a vision to create a comprehensive collection of Northern Hemisphere trees in New Zealand. Cook spent decades acquiring and planting specimens, often sourcing rare species from botanical institutions worldwide. His dedication laid the foundation for what would become this significant collection.
Following Cook's death, the property faced an uncertain future until the Eastwoodhill Trust Board was established to preserve and expand the collection. The Trust has continued the conservation mission, maintaining the existing plantings while adding new species. Today, the arboretum functions as both a public garden and a conservation facility, protecting endangered tree species while providing educational and recreational opportunities for visitors.
Getting There
From Gisborne, take State Highway 2 and turn onto Wharekopae Road. The scenic drive takes approximately 20 minutes, passing through vineyard country and a picturesque valley before climbing into rolling hills where the arboretum is situated. The route is well-signposted. A modest access fee applies, which directly supports ongoing maintenance and conservation work at the site.
If you continue west on Wharekopae Road after your visit, you can explore additional attractions in the area, including Rere Falls, the Rere Rockslide and Te Reinga Falls.
