Eden Garden (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Eden Garden?
What makes it 75% Kids-Friendly: Kids enter free and enjoy tulip-festival games and butterfly area, but parents must supervise on steep quarry paths and there is no playground or interactive exhibit.
Positives:
- Free entry for kids: Children under 12 enter at no charge, saving on family fees.
- On-site parking: Free car parking just outside reception makes arrivals easy.
Challenges:
- Uneven paths: Steep quarry trails can be slippery; sturdy shoes are a must.
- Limited café hours: Café closes at 3 pm, so plan snacks or arrive early for lunch.
What is Eden Garden?
- A 5.5-hectare public garden nestled in a former basalt quarry at the base of Mount Eden
- A curated living collection of native New Zealand flora alongside temperate-zone exotics such as camellias and Vireya rhododendrons
- A landscaped environment featuring themed beds, mature specimen trees and a cascading waterfall sculpted into the quarry walls
What is so special about Eden Garden for with kids?
- Kids under 12 enter free, keeping costs low for families
- Stroll themed beds, waterfall paths and Camellia Grove
- Panoramic city views at Hillary Heights lookout
- Summer butterfly house offers hands-on magic for kids
- Café and picnic spots let you rest without leaving the garden
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time to explore themed beds, picnic, visit the lookout and enjoy the café without rushing younger children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Eden Garden
Themed Garden Walk:
Stroll the 5.5 ha of native NZ plants, camellias and waterfall features.
Tip: Follow the numbered posts on self-guided map; kids love spotting bright rhododendrons.
Hillary Heights Lookout:
Climb the short trail to see Auckland city and Hauraki Gulf views.
Tip: Start early to avoid afternoon sun; bring a small snack for energy on the way up.
Butterfly House (summer):
Visit the breeding house to see native NZ butterflies up close.
Tip: Open December–February; go mid-morning when butterflies are most active.
Picnic Exploration:
Bring snacks and wander winding paths with kids looking for flowers and birds.
Tip: Use benches near the Camellia Grove for a shady rest stop.
Café Break:
Enjoy light meals, pastries and hot drinks with garden views.
Tip: Café opens 9 am–3 pm; order kids’ fruit juice or toasties for a quick refuel.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Eden Garden
- Combine with Mount Eden: Walk up Mount Eden summit first, then descend into the garden for a full day out.
- Early arrival: Get here by 9 am to find parking easily and beat midday crowds.
- Picnic prep: Bring your own snacks to limit café spending and enjoy flexible mealtimes.
Reviews of Eden Garden
Pushkar Kulkarni
Fantastic place…. In the middle of town but extremely relaxing…. Great place to get away from the hustle and bustle. Entry fee will stop us from regularly visiting …. If they can use it as a cover charge at the cafe, it will be a hit.
Bev Robins
Absolutely stunning seeing all the tulips in bloom!! Not to mention a delish croissant at the café!
Arthur Pearson
Was busy the day we went due to a event going on just need more parking and the street needs to be widen on both sides to allow for people parking and then two cars to drive down at same time
Shelley Dillon
Experienced the tulip festival. Flat and easy access to the tulip area and cafe. Other areas of the garden do have steep paths. Great location in central Auckland.
Binky T
Escape the city buzz in a floral paradise! 🌸 Want to see more of NZ's stunning spots? I've got a whole playlist of walking videos on my channel, BinkyT! 'look before you leap' around NZ. Eden Garden in Epsom is a hidden gem! It's a gorgeous escape with themed gardens, a waterfall, and peaceful spots to relax. It's a proper oasis, bursting with colour and fragrance. There is an entry fee of $12...
When is the best time to visit Eden Garden (Auckland, New Zealand)?
September–October: see 12,000 tulips and join free face-painting at the Tulip Festival. December–February: summer butterfly house opens. Late winter: North American rhododendrons bloom.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult entry (x2) | NZD 24 |
| Children entry (x2) | NZD 0 |
| Café snacks and drinks | NZD 25 |
| Optional Tulip Festival tickets (x2 adults) | NZD 28 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 77 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Eden Garden
Address: 24 Omana Avenue, Epsom, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
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About Eden Garden
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
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