Keirunga Gardens - Image 1
1 / 3

Keirunga Gardens

4.5
·367 reviews·Havelock North, New Zealand

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 content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

First & Third Sundays

Train rides are operational!

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Keirunga Gardens - Image 1

Keirunga Gardens

Best Time

First & Third Sundays

Train rides are operational!

CrowdMedium

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.

4.5
(367 reviews)

"A wonderful place to take a little adventure. Great for little ones."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚂 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.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Miniature Railway Adventure

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 Homestead Gardens

Keirunga Gardens

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

Family-Friendly Playground

Family-Friendly Playground

Top of Keirunga Gardens

A great playground awaits at the top of the gardens, offering fun for younger visitors.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Timing is Key for Train Rides

The miniature trains at Keirunga Gardens are a major draw, especially for families. They typically run on the first and third Sunday of the month, so plan your visit accordingly. Check their schedule in advance as this can vary.

Cash for the Miniature Railway

A crucial tip from visitors: the miniature trains are cash-only! Make sure to bring enough small bills for rides and any refreshments available. There's no ATM or EFTPOS on-site, so avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
First & Third Sundays
Why
Train rides are operational!
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn Mornings
Why
Golden light & stunning colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Constructed in the early 1900s in the arts and crafts style, the recently refurbished Keirunga Homestead is available to book for a wide range of community events through the Keirunga Gardens Arts and Crafts Society. For Parks Week 2024, on Saturday, March 9 (10am – 2pm), The Flagship Events Company, Orton’s Tailored Events & Cuisine, and Flock Events will be dressing the grand old lady in a wed...
hastings_district_council
9 likes • 890 views

🚂 Cash for Trains!

Remember to bring cash for the miniature train rides – they're cash-only! Reddit

🍂 Autumn Beauty

Visit in autumn for breathtaking golden colors in the gardens. Instagram+1

Grateful to @keirungahavelocknorth for having me teach a plein air painting class in the stunning Keirunga Homestead gardens, blessed with golden light and the beauty of a perfect Autumn day. 🍂✨ What made it truly special? My grandmother was one of Keirunga’s founding members, so being there felt like coming full circle. 🌿🎨 #pleinairpainting #keirunga #artistlife #autumnvibes #heritageandart #keir...
michelejungart
26 likes • 350 views
Last night we had our Christmas Party at Keirunga Gardens 🚂🎄❤️ Thank you all for coming, it was such a fantastic turn out and we hope you all enjoyed it. A special thank you to team at Keirunga Gardens trains for enabling us to host our special Christmas party. We look forward to getting in the festive spirit with many more exciting Christmas experiences to come in the lead up to Christmas Day 🎄 ...
rockmybaby_centrebased
20 likes • 370 views

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Ideal spot for a family picnic with lovely views and a playground. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Enjoy peaceful walks on various paths through the beautiful gardens. Reddit

Keirunga Gardens in Havelock might just be my favourite spot for an autumn shoot 🍂 🍁🌿
amberbarendsen.photography
43 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚂 Cash for Trains!

Remember to bring cash for the miniature train rides – they're cash-only! Reddit

🍂 Autumn Beauty

Visit in autumn for breathtaking golden colors in the gardens. Instagram+1

🧺 Picnic Perfect

Ideal spot for a family picnic with lovely views and a playground. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Scenic Walks

Enjoy peaceful walks on various paths through the beautiful gardens. Reddit

🎨 Arts & Crafts Hub

The homestead hosts events and art classes; check for community happenings. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.5
(367 reviews)

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

Charming miniature train rides
Beautiful autumn colors
Peaceful garden walks

What People Dislike

Train rides are cash-only

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. Reddit

Yes, there is parking available at Keirunga Gardens, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Depending on your starting point in Havelock North, a walk might be feasible. The gardens offer pleasant walking paths once you arrive. Reddit

While the gardens offer various paths, some may be more challenging for wheelchairs. The main areas and homestead are generally accessible. Reddit

Many visitors enjoy a combination of walking the garden paths, visiting the playground, and taking a ride on the miniature railway. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Keirunga Gardens itself is generally free, allowing you to explore the grounds and enjoy the scenery. Reddit

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! Reddit

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. Reddit

Yes, the Keirunga Homestead, built in the early 1900s, is available to book for community events through the Keirunga Gardens Arts and Crafts Society. Instagram

Keirunga Gardens occasionally hosts events like art trails and community gatherings. Keep an eye on local listings or their social media for updates. Instagram

🎫 🏞️ 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. Reddit

Absolutely! The miniature train ride and the playground make it a fantastic destination for families with children. InstagramReddit

The gardens, especially during autumn with their vibrant colors, offer many picturesque spots. The homestead and the railway tracks also make for great photos. Instagram+1

Yes, toilet facilities are available for visitors within the gardens. Reddit

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. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

Yes, Keirunga Gardens is a wonderful spot for a picnic. There are lovely areas to set up and enjoy your meal amidst nature. Reddit

Havelock North has several cafes and dining options. Birdwood Cafe is mentioned as being nearby and worth checking out. Instagram

For families, packing a picnic is a great option. Alternatively, explore the cafes in Havelock North for a wider selection of food. Reddit

On days with train operations, particularly during special events, you might find food and drinks for sale. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating a golden glow, especially during autumn. Instagram+1

The vibrant autumn foliage, the historic Keirunga Homestead, the charming miniature railway, and the various garden paths are all excellent subjects for photos. Instagram+1

Yes, Keirunga Gardens is a popular spot for photoshoots, including family portraits and even professional dog modeling sessions, thanks to its beautiful scenery. Instagram+1

Generally, personal photography is welcomed. For commercial or professional shoots, it's always wise to check with the park management for any specific guidelines. Instagram

Nature photography, landscape shots, family portraits, and capturing the joy of the miniature train rides are all popular themes. InstagramReddit+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Keirunga Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. The star attraction is the miniature railway, which offers exciting rides through tunnels and over bridges. Remember to bring cash as the trains are cash-only! Reddit The playground at the top of the gardens is also a big hit with children, providing ample space for them to run and play. Reddit Packing a picnic is highly recommended, as there are lovely spots to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Photographers will find Keirunga Gardens a delight, especially during autumn when the foliage bursts into spectacular colors. Instagram+1 The historic Keirunga Homestead provides a charming architectural element, while the miniature railway offers unique photographic opportunities with its tracks, tunnels, and bridges. Reddit Look for the golden hour light in the early morning or late afternoon to capture the most magical shots. Instagram+1

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. InstagramReddit+1

Art & Culture Lovers

The Keirunga Homestead is a significant draw for those interested in arts and culture. This arts and crafts style homestead, recently refurbished, is available for community events and often hosts art classes and exhibitions. Instagram+2 Keep an eye on local listings for any Hawke's Bay Art Trail events or other creative happenings that might be taking place at the gardens. Instagram

Beyond the homestead, the natural beauty of the gardens themselves can inspire creativity, making it a pleasant environment for plein air painting or sketching. Instagram The gardens offer a peaceful ambiance that complements artistic pursuits. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Enchanting Miniature Railway

The miniature railway is undoubtedly a star attraction at Keirunga Gardens, bringing smiles to visitors of all ages. These charming trains chug along a dedicated track, winding through the picturesque grounds, complete with tunnels and bridges that add to the adventure. Reddit It's a nostalgic experience that evokes childhood wonder and provides a unique perspective of the gardens. The railway typically operates on the first and third Sunday of each month, making it a special treat for those who time their visit just right. Reddit

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. Reddit The affordability of the rides, with options for single tickets or multi-ride passes, makes it an accessible activity for families. Reddit

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. InstagramReddit

Exploring the Gardens and Homestead

Keirunga Gardens offers a tranquil escape with its beautifully maintained grounds and diverse pathways. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, discovering different nooks and crannies of the park. The gardens are particularly renowned for their stunning autumn colors, transforming the landscape into a vibrant tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, making it a prime spot for photography. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1 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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

You may also like