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Waiuku’s annual Flora Fest begins today, November 14, and is a celebration of all things botanical.
Member of the organising committee, Di Roden, said this year’s speakers are Lynda Hallinan, Jacqui Knight, and Jack Hobbs.
“Our excellent speakers will have something to delight everyone with an interest in gardens, flowers and all things botanical,” she said.
Lynda Hallinan starts the talks at 10.30am on Friday, speaking about her gardening delights and disasters on her Foggydale Farm in the Hunua Ranges.
“There isn’t a single thing I don’t like about gardening, aside from wretched hay fever,” Hallinan said.
The second guest talk features Jacqui Knight at 12pm on the world of butterflies and moths. She brings decades of expertise and passion for this engaging talk, sharing insights into the life cycles, habitats, and conservation efforts surrounding these delicate creatures.
“Whether you’re a nature lover, gardener, or simply curious, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn from one of the country’s foremost advocates for butterfly conservation,” Roden said.
Finally, join Jack Hobbs at 1.30pm for an inspiring session on how to create gardens that are both stunning and sustainable. With nearly 50 years of hands-on experience and a legacy of innovation at the Auckland Botanic Gardens, Hobbs will share 12 practical insights to help grow beautiful and sustainable gardens.
Flora Fest runs alongside the Franklin Rose Society’s annual show.
The event draws entries from across the Franklin district and is open to anyone, not just members. There are various categories available and not just limited to roses. Flowers, foliage, or even a basket of veggies are welcome too.
There will be a range of boutique market stalls selling plants, flowers, garden art, candles, toys, homeware, gifts, and consumables. The popular bring and buy table is back, and Pukekohe Travel will be at the event promoting their garden tours, which are hosted by Jack Hobbs. There will also be a range of themed activities to keep the kids entertained.
There is a koha entry to the rose show, floral exhibits and market stalls, while a $10 cover charge allows you to listen to any or all three of the guest speakers, and the workshops are $45 each.
All profits from the event will be donated to the Waiuku Family Support Network.
- Flora Fest and Rose Show runs from 10am to 4pm, Friday, November 14 and Saturday, November 15 at St Andrews Centre, 85 Queen Street, Waiuku.
