Pressing business at Hollard Gardens

13 January 2014

Hollard Gardens, one of Taranaki’s horticultural jewels, is in the spotlight this month with events for those who want to learn and those who want to help.

Established by plantsman Bernie Hollard in the 1930s, the 4.5ha Kaponga property is renowned for its plant collection and is described as a horticultural oasis in the heart of dairy country.

Sunday 20 January: Volunteer recruitment session and guided walk.

From 2pm to 3pm on Sunday 20 January, learn more about the history of Hollards, about exciting new developments, and about the roles volunteers can play in the ornamental garden or Bernie’s Home Garden, hosting and leading tours, helping with events and workshops and promoting the property. Please register your attendance at this session by emailing regional.gardens@trc.govt.nz or calling 0800 736 222.

From 3pm to 4.30pm on Sunday 20 January, join garden staff on a guided walk. Enjoy Hollard Gardens in all its summer glory and learn about the property and its diverse range of plants. Then stay on for a twilight picnic at the newly developed Family Corner with free barbecue and kitchenette and expanded playground.

Sunday 26 January: Free workshop – make your own flower press.

Gather at Hollard Gardens at 2pm on Sunday 26 January to learn how to create different types of flower press and how to press flowers to create cards, bookmarks and other gifts. This is a great way to capture the colours of summer flowers and autumn leaves, or get the kids involved and see what surprisingly beautiful keepsakes you can make for all occasions.

Hollard Gardens is open daily and entry is free. Along with Pukeiti and Tupare, it is owned and managed by the Taranaki Regional Council on behalf of the people of the region.

For more information, see www.pukeiti.org.nz, www.tupare.info and www.hollardgardens.info. Social media users can also follow the three Taranaki Regional Council gardens on Facebook (TaranakiRegionalGardens) and Twitter (@TaranakiRG).

ENDS

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