This is a great family destination. Set up in 1976, the extensive, private harbourside gardens showcase an extensive range of native and exotic plant and bird life, including colourful cockatoos and lorikeets, and peacocks that can be fed by hand. There are golf cart garden tours and an art gallery shows the work of local artists.
A terrace café overlooks one of four lily-ponds. Open daily, 10 am to 4.30 pm. Located off State Highway 2, 25km north of Tauranga, and 7km south of Katikati. Walker Road East, Katikati. Operates September – May.
263 Walker Road East, Katikati, (07) 549 0912, www.thebirdgardens.co.nz