Blooming Fun at the Waiheke Garden Festival!
Get ready for the much-anticipated Jassy Dean Trust Waiheke Garden Festival, which is returning on November 9-10, 2024! This beloved event not only invites you to explore ten stunning gardens but also offers a unique blend of local art, plant sales, market stalls, delicious food, and live music. Therefore, it’s truly the perfect way to embrace the beauty of springtime on Waiheke Island.
Supporting a Worthy Cause
Since its inception in 2001, the festival has served as a beacon of hope. Specifically, it supports children and families on Waiheke Island who face health challenges. Every dollar raised directly benefits the Jassy Dean Trust, a charity that has been committed to this vital work for over 30 years. As festival organiser Jo Ewer puts it,
“This year’s festival promises to ‘wow’ visitors with a mix of new gardens and beloved classics on display.”
From the enchanting Sacred Blessings Sanctuary to delightful potager gardens, there’s truly inspiration for everyone!
Pre-Festival Event: Insights from the Chelsea Flower Show
To kick off your festival experience, join us for a special pre-festival event. Local landscape designer Lyndell Shannon will share insights from the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show. Therefore, you won’t want to miss her talk at Placemakers Garden Centre on Saturday, November 9, at 8:30 AM. This event presents a fantastic opportunity to gather creative ideas for your own garden.
Explore the Gardens
Visitors can explore the gardens via car, the Fullers 360 bus tour, or eco-friendly e-bikes, with special discounted ticket packages available. For those navigating tricky access areas, free shuttle buses will ensure you don’t miss a thing.
Celebrate Nature, Art, and Community
The festival is, without a doubt, a true celebration of nature, art, and community. It showcases fantastic local talent, which is essential to the festival’s spirit. Enjoy the rhythms of jazz/soul duo Alex Ludbrook and Peter Reilly. In addition, you can dance with the Sirens or unwind to the melodies of pianist accordionist Pauline Stewart—all for a worthy cause.
New Art Stop at Studio 309
This year, we are excited to introduce a new feature: the ‘art stop’ at Studio 309. Here, you’ll find stunning sculptures, paintings, and ceramics. Artist Belinda Fabris, along with others, will generously donate a portion of their sales to the Trust. Additionally, selected gardens will feature works by Waiheke’s finest artists, including Tom Wilson’s botanical paintings and Zoe Leeb du Toit’s vibrant creations. Thus, there’s art to appreciate around every corner!
Don’t Miss Ngaio’s Plant Sale!
Furthermore, don’t forget the legendary Ngaio’s Plant Sale! For over 20 years, Ngaio Lewis has been growing and selling plants from her Onetangi home. Importantly, all proceeds support the Jassy Dean Trust. You can also savor delicious snacks, coffee, and scones available at various locations. Plus, enjoy a dedicated lunch spot featuring live music and a licensed bar.
Ticket Information
As Greg Dean, Founder of the Jassy Dean Trust, states,
“This festival is our biggest fundraiser, and it just keeps getting better. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who makes it happen—our sponsors, especially Fullers 360 and eRide Waiheke, local businesses, and the over 100 volunteers ensuring everything runs smoothly!”
Purchase your tickets online at fullers.co.nz or in person at Fullers 360 Matiatia or Paper Plus Oneroa. Experience the magic of the Waiheke Garden Festival and support a great cause!
