The Nancy Steen Rose Garden lies adjacent to the rose gardens in Dove Myer Robinson Park, Parnell, in central Auckland.
You approach the garden along a path edged with rengarenga lilies, (Arthropodium cirratum) that flower in the same season as the roses. This brings a very New Zealand touch to the garden that is a tribute to Mrs Nancy Steen and holds many of the heritage and species roses she collected over her life.
The garden was the inspiration of the New Zealand Heritage Roses group, who developed the garden with the Auckland City Council. It was opened in November 1984 by Her Excellency Lady Beattie.
The garden is essentially formal in style with a central pathway leading under a rose covered arch into a sheltered, circular seating area. The beds in this area are planted with roses and perennials in soft colours.
The pathway has deep beds to each side, planted with roses, climbers and perennials, and a central bed planted with low, scented plants and roses. Parallel to the main pathway, outer paths provide access to a more borders planted with roses, shrubs and perennials.
Over 200 roses were planted, the heritage and species roses that Mrs Steen grew, some quite unusual. For those interested in old roses, this is a special and unique garden, and a chance to see heritage roses growing and to assess them before buying.
The garden includes many of the favourite shrubs and perennials that grew in Mrs Steen's own garden. The mingling of roses with shrubs, perennials and bulbs creates a relaxed informal style, a 'country garden' feel that many seek to emulate in their own gardens. This garden is a wonderful place to see how to achieve the look.
The garden draws many, many visitors - both for the roses and for the tranquillity and peaceful atmosphere. It is a fitting tribute to the woman who began the revival of heritage roses in New Zealand.
As many of the roses are once blooming, tehg arden is at it's height in early summer. The second season of bloom, hips on the many species and rugosa roses and the many, many perennials make this an interesting garden in all seasons.
To Visit: See Nancy Steen Garden in our Gardens Open Pages
Open- Daily during daylight hours
Tel +64 9-302 1252; Fax +64 9-525 5308
The roses peak display is early summer
R. 'Souvenir de Malmaison'
R. 'Jean Ducher'
R. Buff Beauty
R. Fantin Latour
The information here is believed to be correct but changes do occur. There may be closures and changes to times of opening. Entrance fees may vary without notice. bestgardening.com cannot take any responsibility for any errors, changes or omissions. Visitors travelling a distance to visit a garden are advised to check opening times with the owners before setting out.
