Discover Franklin’s Most Beautiful Private Gardens
Step behind the gates and explore some of Franklin’s most inspiring private country gardens, lovingly opened to the public for one special weekend in support of Franklin Hospice.
The Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble is a much-loved bi-annual fundraising event that brings together garden lovers, local businesses, volunteers and the wider community for a weekend filled with inspiration, creativity and connection.
From elegant formal landscapes and colourful cottage gardens to peaceful woodland retreats and productive lifestyle properties, every garden tells a unique story.
Most importantly, every ticket helps Franklin Hospice continue providing compassionate care and support to people living with life-limiting illness across the Franklin region.
NEXT RAMBLE
2026 Garden Ramble
Dates: TBC
Time: 10am – 4pm daily
Location: Various private gardens throughout the Franklin region
What To Expect
Visitors can enjoy:
- Exclusive access to stunning private gardens
- Garden inspiration and landscaping ideas
- Local artisan stalls and garden market
- Homemade food, coffee and refreshments
- Plant sales and garden products
- Scenic country drives through Franklin
- Raffles, giveaways and community atmosphere
Whether you're a passionate gardener, photography lover, plant collector or simply looking for a relaxing weekend outing, the Garden Ramble offers something for everyone.
Why The Garden Ramble Matters
Franklin Hospice provides specialist palliative care and support services free of charge to people and families throughout the Franklin district.
Only around half of hospice funding comes from government support. Events like the Garden Ramble help bridge the gap, ensuring local families continue receiving compassionate care when they need it most.
By attending the Garden Ramble, you are directly supporting:
- Specialist hospice care
- Family and whānau support
- Community nursing services
- Bereavement support
- Patient wellbeing programmes
- Future hospice development projects
A Weekend Designed To Inspire
Every Garden Ramble features a carefully curated selection of gardens across the Franklin region — each chosen for its personality, creativity and inspiration.
Previous rambles have included:
- Contemporary architectural landscapes
- Romantic cottage gardens
- Native and sustainable planting
- Formal hedging and topiary
- Productive kitchen gardens
- Woodland walks and ponds
- Large lifestyle property gardens
- Sculpture and garden art displays
No two gardens are ever the same.
Garden Market & Refreshments
The Garden Ramble Market is a destination in itself, featuring:
- Handmade goods
- Plants and garden accessories
- Artisan products
- Food vendors
- Tea rooms and cafés
- Hospice raffles and merchandise
Perfect for a mid-ramble break or early Christmas shopping.
Become A Sponsor
The Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble would not be possible without the incredible support of local businesses, sponsors, volunteers and garden owners.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses wanting to support Franklin Hospice while connecting with a passionate and engaged local audience.
Volunteer with us
Garden Hosts
Welcome visitors and assist at garden entrances.
Parking Support
Help safely direct traffic and parking at venues.
Market Helpers
Support stalls, raffles and refreshment areas.
Event Support
Assist with setup, signage and general event help.
Garden Ramble FAQs
Here are a few helpful things to know before heading out for the Franklin Hospice Garden Ramble.
Yes. Your ticket or wristband gives you access to the participating gardens during the event weekend.
Yes. You can plan your own route and visit the gardens in whichever order suits you best.
The gardens are generally open from 10am to 4pm on both event days.
No animals are permitted in the gardens, except registered service animals.
Most private gardens are not fully wheelchair friendly. Some may have uneven ground, steps, slopes, gravel or grassed areas.
Please wear flat, comfortable shoes suitable for walking through gardens and across uneven ground.
Yes. The event usually includes a market area with food, refreshments, garden items and local stallholders.
Yes. Please bring cash, as not all stallholders or locations may have EFTPOS available.
No. Taking cuttings, seeds or plant material from any garden is strictly prohibited.
Funds raised support Franklin Hospice, helping provide free care and support for people with life-limiting illness and their families across the Franklin region.