Covering 25 hectares, Wellington Botanic Gardens sits on the side of a hill overlooking the city centre. 

Conveniently, a cable car (or more like a Swiss railway) runs from downtown Wellington right to the top of the gardens so visitors can then walk down at their own pace, enjoying the many winding pathways that weave throughout the extensive collection of plants.

Some of the original Conifers, Oaks and Redwoods planted in 1868 still remain, along with an extensive and protected native forest.

But it is the famous Lady Norwood Rose Gardens with 110 beds and the spectacular seasonal displays that draw most visitors, especially in spring when the rich colours of Rhododendron and 30,000 tulips sway in the breeze.

Another wonderful feature is the very large Begonia House displaying lush tropical and temperate plants including a variety of large blooming tuberous Begonias, Orchids, Hippeastrum, Orchid, Lotus and tropical lilies like the giant Victoria amazonica.

For plant enthusiasts there are succulent and cacti gardens, a huge fern collection, rock garden and Camellia Walk.

These are amongst the oldest gardens in New Zealand and have been well designed and maintained over the years.

There's an information centre so visitors can get the best out of their visit and a the Botanic Garden Cafe serves a good variety of food and drinks.

Altogether it's a must see for visitors to New Zealand's capital and can easily fill a whole day if you choose.