Do you need inspiration for your backyard? Or simply a beautiful place for a precious breath of air? Kiwis across the ditch will love these four favourite gardens, nestled in Melbourne’s backyard.
CRANBOURNE
The first garden on our tour is Cranbourne. A classic garden representing Australian native landscapes. Wander along Possum Gully wildflower walk. Take in the scent of cinnamon wattle blooms in spring. Always some colour and the walk revives the spirit. Remember to check out the corner where a house exterior has a standard suburban garden without roses. Visitors are encouraged to think about planting natives that do not need a drop of water during the summer droughts. No dogs are allowed as the garden is situated among a native reserve.
DANDENONG WILLIAM RICKETTS GARDEN
The second garden is a step out of the ordinary. Imagine garden sculptural fantasies challenging our idea of an ideal garden. Dandenong William Ricketts Garden is chock full of William Ricketts sculptures. Plenty of selfie opportunities with a strong Aboriginal influence in style and creativity. Plus, check out the gift shop, it is very good with a “made-in-Australia” policy.
KARWARRA NATIVE GARDEN – DANDENONG RANGES
Volunteers provide visitors with an outstanding landscape packed with Australian native plants. Karwarra Native Garden and Nursery is a place where passionate volunteers inspire all of us.
A visit to Karwarra, Dandenong Ranges is compulsory and definitely should be on your must-do list. A native garden where passionate volunteers show us how to manage a garden without a drop of tap water. As the volunteer told me, ‘A rose would not dare to enter, or a camilla, we are tough proud Aussies to the core …’
AUSTRALIAN ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS, MELBOURNE – NATIVE PLANTS
Discover an oasis in the heart of busy Melbourne. On holiday from New Zealand this is a compulsory stop. Soak up a piece of Australia in the city centre. Stroll, surrounded by Victorian river red gums, native daisies, and iconic kangaroo paws gives us plenty of space to connect with nature. A hidden gem in the Royal Botanical Gardens, Melbourne.
TIP
A bit hot and bothered exploring the myriad of Melbourne attractions? Hop on the Garden Explorer people mover with a 30-minute live commentary.