Gardens at Treghan Lodge
The gardens at Treghan Lodge began as a vision – open land with the opportunity to create something special and enduring.
While living in Wellington, Anna Hamilton had already designed and developed several smaller gardens, drawing inspiration from renowned garden designers including Rosemary Verey, Penelope Hobhouse, Vita Sackville-West, John Brooks, David Culp and Beth Chatto.
Today, the nearly two-acre property in Kerikeri combines areas of native bush with established landscaped gardens inspired by the relaxed beauty of the English cottage garden tradition. Over time the gardens have been featured in NZ House & Garden magazine (read article here), a NZ House & Garden Tour, and several Rotary Garden Safaris.
Guests arriving at Treghan Lodge are welcomed through a tree-lined entrance framed by seasonal planting, with the gardens unfolding gradually into a series of distinct spaces – from open lawns and layered borders to quieter, more sheltered areas designed for rest and reflection.
Mature trees provide structure and shade throughout the property, while camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas, maples and flowering perennials bring changing colour and texture across the seasons.
The gardens continue to evolve year by year, offering something different throughout the changing seasons – fresh spring growth, summer abundance, rich autumn tones and the softer atmosphere of winter.
Birdsong, shifting light, flowering borders and peaceful garden views are very much part of the Treghan experience. Whether enjoying a quiet breakfast on the deck, wandering through the gardens in the afternoon, or relaxing with a glass of wine in the evening, the landscape becomes part of the slower rhythm of a stay in the Bay of Islands.
Many guests visiting Treghan Lodge also enjoy exploring the onsite Little Black Gallery, where original artwork, handcrafted jewellery and ceramics reflect the creative spirit of Northland and New Zealand design.
The peaceful garden setting also forms part of Treghan Lodge’s romantic escapes, longer stays and intimate wedding experiences, with each guesthouse enjoying its own private outlook into different areas of the gardens.
Guests are welcome to explore the grounds during their stay or simply enjoy the privacy and outlook from their own self-contained guesthouse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can guests explore the gardens during their stay?
Yes. Guests are welcome to wander through the gardens and enjoy the different areas of the property during their stay, or simply relax and take in the views from their private guesthouse.
How large are the gardens at Treghan Lodge?
The gardens cover almost two acres and combine landscaped cottage-style gardens with areas of native bush, mature trees, open lawns and seasonal planting.
When is the best time of year to visit the gardens?
The gardens change throughout the seasons and offer something different year-round. Spring brings fresh growth and flowering displays, summer is lush and abundant, autumn offers rich colour, and winter has a quieter beauty with structure, texture and birdsong.
Have the gardens been featured in any garden tours or publications?
Yes. The gardens have been featured in NZ House & Garden magazine, included in a NZ House & Garden Tour, and have participated in several Rotary Garden Safaris as well as the Kerikeri House Tour arranged in aid of the Hospice Mid North.
Do I need to be a keen gardener to enjoy staying at Treghan Lodge?
Not at all. While keen gardeners often enjoy exploring the grounds, many guests simply appreciate the peaceful setting, birdlife, privacy and sense of space the gardens provide.
What style of garden is Treghan Lodge?
The gardens are inspired by the English cottage garden tradition, with layered planting, seasonal colour, mature trees and informal garden rooms, complemented by areas of native New Zealand bush.
Can garden groups visit Treghan Lodge?
Yes. Garden groups are welcome by prior arrangement. Please contact us directly to discuss group visits and availability.
Can I visit the Little Black Gallery while exploring the gardens?
Yes. Many guests enjoy combining time in the gardens with a visit to the onsite Little Black Gallery, which showcases original artwork, handcrafted jewellery, ceramics and other works by New Zealand artists and makers.