Workshops

Inside Eden Garden: Exploring Auckland’s Forest Garden Wonderland

Eden Garden, Epsom

Auckland

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16 Sep 2026, 10:00am–12:00pm

Wednesday, 10:00am to 12:00pm

$55.00 per person

Presenter: Dr Mike Wilcox

Title: Inside Eden Garden: Exploring Auckland’s Forest Garden Wonderland

Abstract: Step inside one of Auckland’s most remarkable urban gardens and discover the extraordinary diversity that has grown from an abandoned scoria and basalt quarry.

Established from 1964 on the eastern slopes of Maungawhau Mt Eden, Eden Garden is now home to an incredible mix of native and exotic plants, from tiny mosses and ferns to towering trees reaching 30 metres high.

Led by botanist Dr Mike Wilcox, this workshop will explore the history, structure and plant life of the Garden as we move through its distinctive areas, including the Quarry Floor Forest, Bromeliad Glade, Waterfall and Pool, Hillary Heights and Quarry Wall Wilderness.

Mike will introduce some of the Garden’s most interesting trees, shrubs, climbers, herbs and ferns, along with seasonal flowering highlights. He’ll also share insights from a recent Auckland Botanical Society project documenting the remarkable range of plants, fungi, lichens and other life found within Eden Garden.

Part history, part botany and part exploration, this is an opportunity to look at Eden Garden through a completely new lens and discover just how much life can exist within one urban garden.

Date:

This workshop will run on Wednesday 16th September from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm and includes entry into Eden Garden to enjoy on the day.

Venue:

We're delighted to be hosting this workshop at Eden Garden, one of Auckland's hidden botanical treasures. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and tranquil spaces, it's the perfect place to enjoy great conversation and new ideas.

About the expert

Dr Mike Wilcox

Dr Mike Wilcox is a botanist and former forest scientist and research director who has worked in New Zealand and internationally as a consultant. In retirement, Mike has remained deeply involved in botanical research and community projects, with a particular interest in Auckland’s urban forest. His work has included botanical studies of Eden Garden, Cornwall Park and Rangitoto Island, as well as research into green infrastructure and Auckland’s seaweeds.

Mike is an active member of the Auckland Botanical Society and has recently been involved in documenting the remarkable diversity of plant life within Eden Garden.