National Shows 2025
The North Island National Dahlia Show
Hosted by the Hamilton Dahlia Circle
At the Hamilton Gardens complex
Explore an enchanting world of secret gardens at Waikato's most visited tourist destination. The international award-winning Hamilton Gardens is unique; it tells "the story of gardens". Hamilton Gardens is not a botanical garden. Instead, its concept acknowledges there is a story to tell about gardens, their development over time and across cultures, and their use. The concept has been compared to a museum, where each garden collection has historic integrity and provides a window into the story of civilisations, their arts, beliefs and lifestyles.
Things to do and see in Hamilton
The South Island National Dahlia Show
Hosted by the Timaru Horticultural Society
To be held at the Caroline Bay complex
15th and 16th February 2025
The second largest city in Canterbury, Timaru sits about midway between Christchurch and Dunedin. It has everything you need for a pleasant stopover. Caroline Bay has a safe swimming beach, botanic gardens, a landscaped piazza and wonderful walks. A collection of restaurants and cafés links the beach to the main shopping area. If you’re thirsty, consider a tour of the local brewery. The city’s excellent museum has moa-hunter artefacts and all kinds of whaling relics; the art gallery holds the third largest public art collection in the South Island. Timaru has many grand Victorian and Edwardian buildings, constructed in local volcanic bluestone.
