Going Green: Neat Places to Grow on You in Auckland

Brought to us by the true and tried, talented team at Babylon Gardens, Babylon Store in St Heliers is a one-stop shop for all things plant - and more. Not just a plant shop, Babylon Store specialises in tailoring plants to your special space - whether it’s your house, workplace or garden. From the planning and styling, to the sourcing, delivering and even installing, they’ve got it covered. If you know what you want (or at least think you do), there is a huge selection of popular and lesser known plants to browse, as well as sculptures and an assortment of pots from their very own pot collection - which features stunning ceramics and exciting numbers from all around the world. 

This bright and funky nook in Mount Eden offers a huge selection of plants, pots and everything in between. However, where I Got Planty really shines is in its incredible customer service, both in store and online. I Got Planty’s website is exceptionally user friendly, and the team behind it are always quick to respond and keen to ensure that all their customers are happy. 

Also excelling in their online operation is the NZ Native Plant Centre, selling exactly what you’d expect: NZ natives. The passion behind this operation is unparalleled, right from protecting and growing native flora, to making it accessible to their customers by providing high quality and affordable prices. All plants are eco-sourced from West Auckland’s Waitakere region and distributed lovingly across the country. So, for your next karaka, kanuka and even manuka, here’s where you should look first.

King’s Plant Barn is an institution, a wonderland for plant enthusiasts. From seeds and seedlings, to plants, pots and everything you need to make ‘em grow (including things you didn’t know you needed), Kings is a plant kingdom you’ll want to get lost in. And the cherry on top is that the staff at King’s are always so friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. There are multiple stores throughout Auckland, so check online which one is closest to you.

The historic Ayrlies Garden spans over four hectares of gently rolling terrain, featuring numerous large lawns, ponds and waterfalls. Use the map provided, or self-navigate around the trails through gardens which boast a kaleidoscope of different colours and smells. A real highlight are the springtime blooms, and of course, the rhododendrons. The garden is linked to the Hauraki Gulf by way of a wetland, spanning about 14 hectares in area and home to a diverse range of native and visiting wildlife. Bird lovers will have a blast spotting their two legged friends wading, dabbling and diving amongst the wetland.

All three green spaces offer leafy retreats from the concrete jungle that is the CBD. Albert Park is the most convenient for central city-dwellers and uni students.  Its sloped edges span the university campus, almost reaching the corporate Shortland Street precinct. By far the most spacious green space, Victoria Park is often home to social sports games, markets and picnic-makers and is easily tied to a walk along the waterfront. For those located up the Ponsonby hill, short and steep Myers Park is a local favourite - expect workers and their furry friends to be dotting the hillside throughout the working week.

Just a hop, skip and a jump from Auckland’s CBD lies Western Springs park, an inner city oasis revolving around a serene lake teeming with carp, eels and a plethora of birds. The best way to explore is to embark on the delightful 1.75km trail encircling the lake, treating yourself to picturesque vistas, perfect picnicking spots and an impressive state-of-the-art playground for the little ones. Don’t miss the Fukoaka Garden, a serene and captivating Japanese garden accessible to the public daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm, free of charge. 

The Dove Myer Robinson Park is also home to Parnell’s Rose Garden, an absolute treat for the eyes (and nose) come summer and autumn months. There are over 5000 rose bushes growing here, as well as Auckland’s oldest manuka and largest pōhutukawa tree. Its hilltop location enables harbour views and scenes spanning down to Judges Bay. Nearby, the spacious Auckland Domain is a popular spot for sunsets, outdoor exercise classes and photography, and also for those wanting to relax after visiting either the War Memorial Museum or the magical Wintergardens.

Coffee lovers and nature enthusiasts in search of a peaceful, caffeinated haven need look no further than the courtyard at Odettes Eatery, located in the central City Works Depot. Teeming with plant life, this urban oasis creates a tranquil environment, perfect for satisfying the desire to be closer to nature. Odettes Eatery is Scandinavian themed, with a beautifully decorated interior and a menu that will no doubt see visitors return. 

A cafe providing the perfect backdrop for relaxation and conversation, the charming Farmhouse is situated in a little white villa overlooking the Clevedon countryside. Nature is all around - from the outdoor seating amongst the garden, the barn, farmyard animals onsite or its lush surroundings, it’s hard not to feel relaxed. Conscious efforts are made to minimise waste and care for the land, bees and environment, and to top it off - the cabinet food and organic Kokako coffee are delicious! Always popular are the frittatas, cakes and salads.

Kind is a cafe blooming with abundant plant life, creating a soothing and refreshing ambiance. It’s not only kind on the eye, but kind on the environment and community too. Kind is a social enterprise serving mostly vegan options, and the menu is plant-based, catering to many different dietary needs and choices. Embracing the concept of ‘bringing the outdoors in’, Kind’s interior has been transformed into an inviting sanctuary adorned with thriving foliage. A signature staple is the Avo Benediction, starring avocado mousse, creamy beetroot feta and spinach on sourdough, poached eggs and hollandaise sauce.