Full of history and timeless charm. Come and take a self-guided tour of this national treasure. Step back in time and discover the memories and stories of our historic homestead and garden estate, the heart of Gordonton’s history.
Also located at the Estate is Woodlands Garden Grove Cafe & Bar. Privately owned and operated, the café looks out onto an old-fashioned cricket oval.
Woodland’s Homestead is a category 1 Historic Place, Heritage New Zealand. Come and see why our gardens are rated as a 5-star Garden of National Significance by the New Zealand Garden Trust. The gardens are home to New Zealand's largest Eucalyptus, the finest Liriodendron in the Waikato, an American Ash and a Juniperus Chinensis.
View our map and calendar below to help guide you through the Estate and find out what happens in the garden when the seasons change.
Estate MapEstate Calendar
Visiting Hours
Gardens: Monday to Sunday - 9am to 3.30pm (donations appreciated)
Homestead: Monday to Sunday - 10am to 3.30pm ($3 entry)
Cafe: Weekdays - 9am to 3.00pm | Weekends - 9am to 4pm
Welcoming Guests Through Our Doors Since 1872
Woodlands Estate was established as a 98,000 acre estate purchased from The Crown by The Piako Swamp Company for 2/6 (25 cents) an acre. The Homestead, restored to its former glory, was initially built as a Manager's residence between 1875 and 1881. It is primarily made of Kauri and still features some original weatherboards and roof iron.
Thank You
Woodlands Estate is looked after by a not-for-profit trust, with the gardens being well-maintained by the Waikato District Council.
The overall historic and aesthetic value of the homestead and gardens has been maintained thanks to generous donations and voluntary time. The Trust extends its gratitude for the generous support of the community over the years.
Estate Calendar
Location: Offices
MARKETS ON WOODLANDS OVAL
Visit us on the 2nd Sunday of each month and wander the many market stalls on the cricket oval in front of the cafe. Check our facebook page for updates and cancellations.
ANTIQUE & COLLECTABLE FAIR
Saturday 20th & Sunday 21st January 2024 in the Wisteria Room, $3 entry. A wonderful collections or antiques and collectables for you to buy.
SUMMER AT THE ESTATE
Enjoy a stroll around the picturesque gardens and relax and enjoy tasty treats at Woodlands Garden Grove Cafe.
IN THE GARDEN
FLOWERING:
Roses, Hydrangea, Neepta (Catnip), Lavender, Liriope (both Purple & White), Epimedium, Clivia, Hosta, Dicentra, Delphinium, Wisteria (front of Homestead), Sambucuas.
IN FRUIT:
Ornamental Pear