Giraffe the Gardener
Enjoy the latest book by Kimberly the creator of our Tumbleweed tees. This is a fun interactive, informative book for children of all ages. You can purchase your copy at the Ruru Kiosk.
A Garden of Significance
We are excited to announce we have a 4 STAR rating with the NZ Gardens Trust and are listed as a Garden of significance.
Translation - New Exhibition
This new unique exhibition will be located in the Rock Garden. The works are by various arts and are inspired by Asian themes.
Silver Clay Jewelry
The art of working with Metal clay with Marcia Colquhoun - who is a versatile artist specializing in jewelry making with metal clays. This process is old and was established in Japan in 1990.
Iconic Waikato Destination changes hands
The Sculpture Park at Waitakaruru Arboretum moves on to its next stage. The charitable trust that manages the park has appointed a Park Manager to replace former owners, John and Dorothy Wakeling. This is part of the transition of the park which is now owned by a Foundation set up to ensure long-term stewardship of the park.
Antoinette Van der Weerden takes the reins at the park. Her background is in landscape architecture with considerable experience in horticulture. Her appointment will further enhance the park’s legacy of promoting environmental care and inspiring creativity in the arts.
Art in the making.. our Roosting Ruru Cafe gets a makeover
Our Roosting Ruru Cafe is getting a “makeover” with artist gemma reid creating a mural portraying some of the beautiful birdlife that abounds in the park.
As you visit the park you will see the mural unfold over the coming months…
Meet the “swimmingly” ladies
Meet the ladies and gentlemen who makeup the “Swimmingly” exhibition created by Rebecca Rose.
Thes 14 limited edition pieces are made from greywakie and all have a personality. Who do they remind you of?
From Wasteland to Wonderland
The Sculpture park is a story of renewal - a model of land rehabilitation showing that even the most damaged landscapes can be restored to life and purpose.
Trip Advisor Top 10
We are delighted to announce we are in the top 10% in the world for the People’s Choice award with Tripadvisor.
Our Art-in-Nature experience provides enjoyment for all ages - thank you for our supportive visitors.
Twilight Wine n Cheese is Back!
The Twilight Wine n Cheese events are back so don’t miss your chance. Relax and enjoy some great refreshments with a glorious view from the artist shelter. Then, go for a walk around the park before coming back for a spot of dessert or a hot chocolate.
School Holiday Entertainment
School holiday fun for the family at the Sculpture park this October.
Outdoor fun, workshops and Duck Island Ice-cream, all part of the Art-in-Nature experience.
The Ruru Retreat - book your “summer” break
Are you looking for a breakaway from the frantic pace of life?
The Ruru Retreat located at the Waitakaruru Arboretum and Sculpture Park provides the perfect space to relax and enjoy nature at its best. This one bedroom house is available for two night stays all year round.
Little Taonga Jewellery
Little Taonga is a company creating treasures representing Aotearoa - from our birdlife to iconic symbols of kiwi life.
Supporting New Zealand made a range of these unique jewelry pieces can be found at the Ruru Nest Kiosk.
Vote RURU for Bird of the Year
Show you love of our beautiful Ruru and place your vote for the Bird of the Year. A bird of the bush and the night it is also an important species in Maori mythology.
The Ruru is at home at the Waitakaruru Arboretum so SAVE the date and remember to vote on the 15th September
Holding Space With Shaah - Somatic Pathways to Wholeness
Are you looking for some alternative forms of healing on the journey to wellness?
Shaah offers a variety of different treatments to help you on your journey.
The Forgotten Forest exhibition
We have an exciting new exhibition of works by Destine and Nathan Hull has arrived at the Sculpture park and will be available to view until 27th October. This is an opportunity to see of both artists…. find out more about Nathan and Destine
Fun facts about the Tui Bird
Tui are one of New Zealand’s most recognizable birds.
They are fun and loud and very territorial and will defend their turf aggressively, chasing away other birds to make sure their food source is safe.
You will see Tui as well as 30 other types of bird when you visit the Sculpture Park.
Out of the Woods Honey
We are excited to be supporting a local honey supplier at the Ruru Nest Kiosk. So, if you love honey come and see what this small business is doing.
When Art has a Message..
This work by Bernie Harfleet is an example of how “art” can deliver a strong message
The story of this piece is about family violence in New Zealand and work done by Women’s Refuge.
Have you visited our Ruru Nest Shop?
If you are looking for unique, New Zealand made and local gifts then come and visit the Ruru Nest Gift Shop.
From wooden to ceramic to story books we have all your gift needs covered.