Otari-Wilton's Bush walkway
Otari Native Botanic Garden and Wilton's Bush Reserve is the only public botanic garden in New Zealand dedicated solely to native plants. It is classified as a Garden of National Significance by the Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture.
This unique plant sanctuary and forest reserve consists of 100 hectares of native forest, and five hectares of plant collections. Some of Wellington's oldest trees are here, including an 800-year old rimu.
A bioblitz in March 2007 counted 1347 different species in the gardens and reserve areas. Scientists and volunteers spent 24 hours recording finds that included a new species of cave weta and an Amanita fungus.
Entry is free.
Otari-Wilton's Bush Centenary
1906 - 2006
In August 2006 the Otari-Wilton's Bush Reserve turned 100 years old. To celebrate the milestone there was a year of activities from August 2006 - August 2007.
Otari 100 - Otari-Wilton's Bush Centenary Celebrations website
Location
Otari-Wilton's Bush is about 5km from the city centre, on Wilton Road between Gloucester and Warwick Streets.
The main public carpark is at the Wilton Road entrance. Parking is also available off Churchill Drive.

Getting There
Take the No 14 Wilton bus from Lambton Quay to Otari-Wilton's Bush.
Hours
The Bush is open daily between sunrise and sunset. The Te Marae o Tane Information Centre is open from 9.00am - 4.00pm daily.
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchair-friendly paths run from the main carpark to the Information Centre, over the Canopy Walkway, and to Cockayne Lookout. A step-free path runs from the Churchill Drive carpark along the Kaiwharawhara streamside to the Troup Picnic Lawn. The Wilton Walkway from the carpark through the Fernery and leading into mature podocarp forest, is also suitable.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome, provided they are on a lead and owners clean up after them. Dogs off a lead are a threat to native wildlife. Owners also need to be aware of the risk of secondary poisoning from possum bait.
Guided Tours
Otari-Wilton's Bush stream
Guided tours are available for groups of all sizes. Experienced guides lead tours that are tailored to each group.
The Otari Wilton’s Bush Trust runs monthly walks for members and visitors. Check the events calendar for upcoming events and details.
Otari-Wilton's Bush - Events Calendar
Protecting the Bush
Keep to the tracks and take your rubbish home. The following activities are prohibited:
- picking, damaging or removing plant material
- camping
- lighting open fires
- cycling and mountain biking
More Information
Related Links
Department Details:
Otari Wilton's Bush (Parks and Gardens)
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