The Ashburton Domain is an oasis in the city covering a space of 37 hectares that can easily be reached by foot from the city centre.

Many visitors will simply stroll around the landscaped gardens, trees and pristine lawns while others are there to make use of the land that has been reserved for sporting use.

Families can take advantage of the playground, paddling pool and flying fox to keep the children amused.

The gardens are renowned for their diverse selection of shrubs including rhododendrons, roses, lilacs, roses, magnolias, maples and conifers. It's no surprise that many wedding photos are taken here. The best time to visit the gardens is during the spring and summer months when the full range of colours are on display. 

Over the years, since the gardens were first created in 1883, a number of community service groups and organisations have contributed to its development.