Gisborne, New Zealand Eastwoodhill Arboretum Excursion

Eastwoodhill Arboretum

DETAILS

4
hrs Estimate Duration
Snack

OVERVIEW

Experience an extraordinary collection of Northern Hemisphere trees in a surprising place: over 2,500 miles below the Equator outside Gisborne. Established in 1918 on over 300 acres of fertile North Island ground in the hills of Poverty Bay, Eastwoodhill is New Zealand’s national arboretum – and home to a diverse collection of mature trees that is breathtakingly comprehensive. Hundreds of colorful maples, oaks, ironwoods and poplars as well as fragrant flowering trees – even a towering California redwood – flourish here. On the coach drive to the reserve, a docent from the Friends of the Eastwoodhill will provide background and context on the arboretum – including how modern more-restrictive international agricultural regulations would make it completely impossible to replicate this collection today. Luckily, it’s already here for you to enjoy. And upon arrival, you can choose the manner of enjoying it that suits you best. Options include a 30-minute guided walking tour through the Homestead Garden, a broader-range guided tour in a 4WD vehicle, or the tried-and-true method of setting out on your own two feet with a detailed map and signage to guide you. Either way, you’ll have about two hours here to satisfy your arboreal cravings.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a scenic drive through the Gisborne hills to tour New Zealand’s 100-year-old national arboretum.
• Explore parts of Eastwoodhill’s extraordinary 325-acre collection by one of several methods.
• Follow a guide on a 30-minute narrated walk, take a guided tour by 4WD vehicle, or just go old-school and wander the paths with map in hand
• See specimen maples, oaks, ironwoods and poplars too numerous to count.
• Depending on the season, many trees could be in bloom with delightful scents wafting through the air.

HELPFUL HINTS

• • Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing.
• • Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• • Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as needed.

Need to Know:

Note: While walking is required on this tour, it is primarily at guests’ discretion; a moderate level of fitness is required for those who wish to walk independently. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible chair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have an able-bodied companion to assist them. The 4X4 vehicles cannot accommodate wheelchair guests. Those with other mobility concerns are cautioned to carefully evaluate their personal level of stamina before participating. The 4X4 vehicles are open-air and do not operate in the rain; these are only 4-passenger vehicles and there can be a significant wait-time for one.

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ACTIVITY ATTRIBUTES

Excursion Type:

Scenic & City Tours

Wildlife Tours

Activity Level:

1

Easy
2

Moderate
3

Challenging

Tours with this activity level involve a considerable amount of physical activity such as substantial walking over cobblestone streets, uneven or steep terrain, climbing stairs, or extended periods of standing. Not recommended for guests with physical limitations. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended.

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Shore Excursion Details

Eastwoodhill Arboretum