Gardens & Parks

The Ashburton District is well known for its delightful parks and gardens - public, private and commercial.

The Ashburton Domain, often referred to as the "jewel in the crown" of Ashburton, covers 37.54 hectares of land within walking distance from the commercial area of Ashburton. It caters for a large number of different groups, with 16 hectares in lawns, trees and gardens and the remaining 21 hectares used for active recreational sport. It is known for its many established trees and in many cases some of the finest specimens you will see anywhere. It is also recognised for its wide range of shrubs - in particular the deciduous azaleas, rhododendrons, lilacs, roses, maples, magnolias and conifers. Collections of azaleas, camellias and other shrubs have been added to the mature trees. A comprehensive playground, paddling pool and flying fox are always popular with the children. The domain is at its best when seen in the autumn and spring, with many couples taking advantage of this for their wedding or for their photos.

The Tinwald Domain is Ashburton’s hidden treasure. Overall the domain is about 4.45 hectares of green open space, with a small children's playground and a picturesque manmade lake which has become a focal point for many picnickers. The lake is enclosed within tall stately trees. Two large oak trees that mark the entrance to the lake were planted by the Duke and Duchess of York (later to be crowned King George V and Queen Mary) to mark their visit in 1901. The domain is well suited to its current passive recreational usage. Surrounding the domain are areas devoted to more active recreational pursuits such as cycling and rugby. Also situated within the domain is a well supported caravan park. The original picnic shelter, from 1917, is still in use today by the many picnickers.

Baring Square East has been designed around the town's landmark clock tower, various monuments and the fountain. All this is set in a semi-formal area comprising mature trees, camellias, rhododendrons, roses and mass plantings of strikingly coloured annuals.

Most of the rural communities have, at least, a green area if not a domain set aside for the enjoyment of residents and visitors, with Rakaia and Methven being the largest and best known. Many of the plantings reflect the area’s affinity to the natural beauty of the area and the Rakaia braided river.

The Ashburton District hosts a number of festivals centred on a gardening theme and many private and commercial gardens are open for visitors.