
Keirunga Gardens
A charming haven with a historic homestead, vibrant gardens, and a beloved miniature railway, perfect for family fun and peaceful strolls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Train rides are operational!

Keirunga Gardens
Best Time
Train rides are operational!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming haven with a historic homestead, vibrant gardens, and a beloved miniature railway, perfect for family fun and peaceful strolls.
"A wonderful place to take a little adventure. Great for little ones."

🚂 Cash for Trains!
Remember to bring cash for the miniature train rides – they're cash-only!
🍂 Autumn Beauty
Visit in autumn for breathtaking golden colors in the gardens.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Miniature Railway Adventure
Keirunga Gardens
Chug through tunnels and over bridges on a charming miniature train ride, perfect for all ages.

Keirunga Homestead Gardens
Keirunga Gardens
Stroll through stunning gardens, especially vibrant in autumn, with a historic arts and crafts homestead.

Family-Friendly Playground
Top of Keirunga Gardens
A great playground awaits at the top of the gardens, offering fun for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Train Rides
Cash for the Miniature Railway
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚂 Cash for Trains!
Remember to bring cash for the miniature train rides – they're cash-only!
🍂 Autumn Beauty
Visit in autumn for breathtaking golden colors in the gardens.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Ideal spot for a family picnic with lovely views and a playground.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walks
Enjoy peaceful walks on various paths through the beautiful gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚂 Cash for Trains!
Remember to bring cash for the miniature train rides – they're cash-only!
🍂 Autumn Beauty
Visit in autumn for breathtaking golden colors in the gardens.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Ideal spot for a family picnic with lovely views and a playground.
🚶♀️ Scenic Walks
Enjoy peaceful walks on various paths through the beautiful gardens.
🎨 Arts & Crafts Hub
The homestead hosts events and art classes; check for community happenings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Keirunga Gardens is widely praised as a wonderful, peaceful place for family outings, offering beautiful walks and the charming miniature railway. Visitors highlight the stunning autumn colors and the family-friendly atmosphere, though some note the train rides are cash-only.
"A wonderful place to take a little adventure. Great for little ones. Nice easy walk around Kerunga. Different paths to take throughout. Kids playground is great at the top. Catch the right day and go for a train ride.
Amazing colours at this time of year"
Sebastiaan Verplanke
"Keirunga gardens is a wonderful place to have a picnic, go for a walk or head out on the trains.awesome place for the whole family to enjoy. Staff at the trains are very friendly and helpful, toilets are available and the trains are CASH only. No eftpos available"
Surreal3sixty
"Beautiful ride on the the train with the kids, autumn leaves dropping giving the landscape a golden glow.
A peaceful walk through the gardens gives me the reminder the we do live in an amazing world."
Andrew Sim
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Keirunga Gardens is located in Havelock North. Driving is the most common way to access it, with parking available on-site. Public transport options might be limited, so check local bus routes if you're not driving.
Yes, there is parking available at Keirunga Gardens, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
Depending on your starting point in Havelock North, a walk might be feasible. The gardens offer pleasant walking paths once you arrive.
While the gardens offer various paths, some may be more challenging for wheelchairs. The main areas and homestead are generally accessible.
Many visitors enjoy a combination of walking the garden paths, visiting the playground, and taking a ride on the miniature railway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Keirunga Gardens itself is generally free, allowing you to explore the grounds and enjoy the scenery.
The miniature train rides are very affordable, typically costing $2 per ride or offering a 12-ride ticket for $15. Remember, this is cash-only!
The popular miniature trains usually operate on the first and third Sunday of each month. It's always best to confirm their schedule before your visit.
Yes, the Keirunga Homestead, built in the early 1900s, is available to book for community events through the Keirunga Gardens Arts and Crafts Society.
Keirunga Gardens occasionally hosts events like art trails and community gatherings. Keep an eye on local listings or their social media for updates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy leisurely walks, explore the beautiful gardens, let kids play at the playground, and take a ride on the miniature railway. The homestead is also a point of interest.
Absolutely! The miniature train ride and the playground make it a fantastic destination for families with children.
The gardens, especially during autumn with their vibrant colors, offer many picturesque spots. The homestead and the railway tracks also make for great photos.
Yes, toilet facilities are available for visitors within the gardens.
While dogs are often allowed in parks, it's best to check local council regulations for Keirunga Gardens regarding pets, especially if they need to be on a leash.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
On days when the miniature trains are running, especially during special events or long weekends, food and drinks may be available for purchase.
Yes, Keirunga Gardens is a wonderful spot for a picnic. There are lovely areas to set up and enjoy your meal amidst nature.
Havelock North has several cafes and dining options. Birdwood Cafe is mentioned as being nearby and worth checking out.
For families, packing a picnic is a great option. Alternatively, explore the cafes in Havelock North for a wider selection of food.
On days with train operations, particularly during special events, you might find food and drinks for sale.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating a golden glow, especially during autumn.
The vibrant autumn foliage, the historic Keirunga Homestead, the charming miniature railway, and the various garden paths are all excellent subjects for photos.
Yes, Keirunga Gardens is a popular spot for photoshoots, including family portraits and even professional dog modeling sessions, thanks to its beautiful scenery.
Generally, personal photography is welcomed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's always wise to check with the park management for any specific guidelines.
Nature photography, landscape shots, family portraits, and capturing the joy of the miniature train rides are all popular themes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the dedicated attractions, the gardens themselves offer gentle walking paths that are easy for little legs to navigate. The overall atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, making it an ideal spot for a fun-filled afternoon outing.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Various garden paths and scenic viewpoints throughout the park offer diverse backdrops for nature and landscape photography. Whether you're capturing family moments, the beauty of the changing seasons, or the nostalgic charm of the train rides, Keirunga Gardens provides a picturesque setting.
Art & Culture Lovers
Beyond the homestead, the natural beauty of the gardens themselves can inspire creativity, making it a pleasant environment for plein air painting or sketching. The gardens offer a peaceful ambiance that complements artistic pursuits.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enchanting Miniature Railway
Remember that this beloved attraction is cash-only, so be sure to have your change ready. The friendly staff operating the trains are often praised for their helpfulness, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. The affordability of the rides, with options for single tickets or multi-ride passes, makes it an accessible activity for families.
Beyond the ride itself, the anticipation and excitement of waiting for the train, and the joy on children's faces as it passes, are part of the overall magical experience. It’s a simple pleasure that creates lasting memories for many visitors.
Exploring the Gardens and Homestead
The historic Keirunga Homestead, constructed in the early 1900s in the arts and crafts style, stands as a focal point within the gardens. This recently refurbished homestead is not just a beautiful structure but also a community hub, available for booking for various events. It adds a layer of historical and architectural interest to the natural beauty of the gardens, and its surroundings are often used for art classes and community gatherings.
For families, the gardens also feature a well-regarded playground located at the top of the park, providing a fun space for children to play. Combined with the option for picnics, Keirunga Gardens truly offers a well-rounded experience for nature lovers, history buffs, and families alike.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit