Rapaura

Rapaura Review

Rapaura Watergardens is in a 64-acre private estate nestled beside Coromandel Forest Park. This property, which has been nurtured more than 40 years, features ponds and streams, fountains, and water features set in lush green lawns and native forest, and adorned with garden art. A 45 minute walk leads you through seasonal displays of exotic flora, primulas and spring bulbs, azaleas, rhododendrons, camellias, lillies, and hydrangeas, interspersed with native grasses and bushes. There's also the Big Pond, where water lilies flower through summer, and a forest walk to cascading waterfalls. The onsite vegetable and herb gardens supply Koru at Rapaura, the highly recommended cafe at the garden that serves wholesome home baking, local fare, and daily-baked beer bread.

Rapaura also offers self-catering accommodation in either a Boutique Lodge or Garden Cottage. After 5pm, the garden becomes your private playground. You can swim beneath the falls, cook up a barbecue dinner, and enjoy nature at its best. Rates for two range from $165 to $275, including Continental breakfast provisions.