Last updated July 2026
The Parnell Rose Gardens, formally known as Dove-Myer Robinson Park, is a free public garden in the inner suburb of Parnell featuring around 5000 roses across themed spaces. Entry is open at all hours with no charge. The gardens peak from November through March when the roses bloom, though the park remains pleasant year-round. Key features include the White Garden, the Nancy Steen Heritage Rose Collection, and formal beds around the central lawn. Its location near Auckland Domain makes it an easy addition to a visit there.
Practical Information
| Location | 85–87 Gladstone Road, Parnell, Auckland |
| Entry | Free, open 24 hours |
| Best season | November through March (roses in full bloom) |
| Facilities | Seating, paths, picnic tables, drinking fountains, barbecues; accessible toilets nearby |
| Parking | On-street parking on Gladstone Road and surrounding streets; limited car park in the park |
| Public transport | Bus routes serve Parnell; check AT Journey Planner |
About the Parnell Rose Gardens
The park occupies land purchased by Auckland ratepayers in 1914–1915 and developed as public parkland. It was renamed Dove-Myer Robinson Park in 1981 after the long-serving mayor who supported urban green spaces. Rose plantings have been a feature since at least the mid-twentieth century, expanding into one of Auckland’s notable public rose collections.
Auckland Council maintains the gardens in association with the New Zealand Rose Society. The collection includes modern hybrids and heritage varieties, with signage identifying many plants. The site is recognised for its scale and quality of formal garden design.
The gardens sit at the northern edge of Parnell, one of Auckland’s characterful inner suburbs with heritage villas, cafés, restaurants and shops along Parnell Road. A short walk uphill leads to Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park, allowing easy combined visits.
The Gardens and Collections
The White Garden is planted exclusively with white-flowering roses in a formal layout. It serves as a popular photography spot and occasional outdoor wedding venue.
The Nancy Steen Garden displays heritage roses, older varieties often with stronger fragrance and more complex forms than modern hybrid teas. It was opened in 1984 as a joint project honouring rosarian and artist Nancy Steen.
Formal beds surrounding the central lawn feature a broad mix of rose varieties arranged by colour and type. In peak bloom the display is dense, colourful and fragrant, best appreciated with a slow walk through the paths.
Visiting Parnell and Nearby Attractions
Parnell offers pleasant walking with its village atmosphere and heritage buildings. From the rose gardens, paths lead toward Judges Bay and the Parnell Baths for further exploration. The combination of gardens, suburb and Domain provides a relaxed half-day outing within easy reach of central Auckland.
What Visitors Often Say
The White Garden is beautiful and the heritage rose section stands out for its fragrance and variety. Weekday mornings are quieter. Free entry makes it an easy choice for a relaxed visit.
The gardens are stunning in November and December with incredible scent. Many combine a visit with Parnell village and Auckland Domain for a perfect half-day outing.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Dove-Myer Robinson Park: official park page with facilities, access and map.
Auckland NZ – Parnell Rose Garden: visitor information and location details.
New Zealand Rose Society – Dove-Myer Garden, Parnell: details on the rose collection and heritage significance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is entry to the Parnell Rose Gardens free?
Yes, entry is free at all hours with no tickets, bookings or fees required.
When is the best time to visit the Parnell Rose Gardens?
November through March offers peak rose bloom and fragrance, with December and January typically the busiest weeks. The gardens remain open year-round but are quieter outside the main flowering season.
Where is the Parnell Rose Garden?
At 85–87 Gladstone Road, Parnell. On-street parking is available nearby and buses serve the suburb; check the AT Journey Planner for routes.
What is the White Garden?
The White Garden is a formal section planted only with white-flowering roses. It has a structured appearance and is popular for photography and weddings.
What is the Nancy Steen Garden?
The Nancy Steen Garden holds a collection of heritage rose varieties, older types often prized for stronger scent and varied flower forms. It opened in 1984.
Are the gardens accessible?
Most paths are accessible, though some areas have steps or uneven surfaces. Accessible toilets are available in the park.
Can I combine a visit with Auckland Domain?
Yes, the Domain is a short uphill walk from the rose gardens, making a combined visit straightforward.
Is there a festival at the gardens?
The annual Parnell Festival of Roses celebrates the gardens in full bloom with a free community event, usually held in November.
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