Admire and Be Inspired by the Gardening and Artistic Talent of the Bay of Plenty
Celebrate the beauty and diversity of our region’s gardens and the creativity of our talented artists. From 14th to 17th November 2024, explore the wonderful Bay of Plenty as we open the gates to over 70 beautiful gardens and showcase more than 80 magnificent artists. Discover artworks displayed in gardens and galleries around Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty, blending horticultural brilliance with artistic creativity.
At our festival hub, “Bloom in the Bay,” you will also experience our new Wellness Zone, exhibitors, live music, tattoo studio, speakers, workshops, delicious food and beverages, and the stunning Festival Gallery.
The Garden and Art Trail
Gardening is undeniably an art form. Each garden represents a unique canvas, shaped by inspiration and passion, resulting in an enchanting sensory experience. The Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival celebrates this union of nature and creativity through our impressive Garden and Art Trail.
We are incredibly grateful to our participating gardeners for graciously inviting you into their private sanctuaries to witness their creativity. These gardens are the heart of our festival, and without their contributions, this event would not be possible.
We’re also proud to partner with Bayleys Real Estate and Palmers Garden Centre Bethlehem, who bring you this remarkable trail. When exploring the trail, be sure to visit our friends at Palmers Bethlehem!
What Will You See?
The Garden and Art Trail stretches from Omokoroa to Pongakawa, with all gardens open to explore over the four festival days. You’ll find everything from small urban gardens to sprawling country estates – a delightful mix of new additions and returning favourites.
Adding to the allure of the festival are the art stops scattered along the trail. In some cases, you can even witness artists at work in their own studios. The harmonious pairing of artists and gardens is what makes this trail truly special. Local and national artists will showcase a wide array of artwork in various mediums, enhancing the garden experience with their creative flair.
Ticket Passes
The Garden and Art Trail is accessible to festival pass holders. Choose between two ticket options: a one-day pass that grants you access to all gardens for one day of your choice, or a multi-day festival pass that allows for a more leisurely exploration of the gardens across all four days. Whichever option you choose, access to Bloom in the Bay, our festival hub, is included with your pass.
Bloom in the Bay
Our festival hub, Bloom in the Bay, is a vibrant gathering place where you can immerse yourself in a dynamic mix of exhibits, workshops, live performances, and more. It’s a space where gardening meets art, and visitors can indulge in a rich array of experiences. The Festival Gallery will showcase an exciting mix of local, national, and international artists, with artwork ranging from sculptures and jewelry to ceramics and paintings. Expect a myriad of inspirational content, as the 2024 artists showcase their talents in a diverse array of mediums.