The Magnificent Magnolia Gardens Opens Again

There is something truly magical about winter giving way to spring, especially on the western outskirts of Whangārei, nestled in the beautiful grounds of Magnolia Gardens at Proctor Road.

Over the last decade, owners Catherine and Dave Davies-Colley have generously opened their breathtaking sanctuary to the public as a fundraiser for I Have a Dream. Aside from a brief hiatus during the pandemic, this annual event has blossomed into a beloved local staple and one of our longest-running fundraising events.

Each year, visitors flock to the property to witness the hundreds of unique specimens lovingly curated and bred right here in Northland. For Catherine, bringing this event to life is a labour of love that requires months of meticulous planning, a creative process she genuinely thrives on.

“I like that it’s an intellectual challenge for me, and sharing it with others brings me so much joy,” Catherine says.

For the Davies-Colleys, it is not just sharing the garden that makes this event so special; it is the purpose behind it.

“Our relationship with I Have a Dream and supporting young people to gain life skills is really important to us,” Catherine says.

If you have visited in the past, or if this is your very first time, this year brings an exciting fresh format. The spectacular gardens will be open daily from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, running from Saturday, 8 August until Sunday, 16 August.

Event Details:

• Location: 37 Proctor Road, Poroti, Maungatapere, Whangārei
• Open: 10am – 3pm daily from Saturday 8 August until Sunday 16 August
• Entry Fee: $10 per adult (eftpos available; kids free)
• Raffle prizes include a stunning Honey Tulip Magnolia tree worth $89 donated by Mitre 10 Whangārei, a selection of Solomons Gold chocolate and MCOFFEE packs and plants kindly donated from the Davies-Colley’s.
• Tea and coffee available to purchase.

Whether you’re a dedicated gardening enthusiast, a flower lover, or simply looking for a peaceful outing with family and friends, it is the perfect backdrop for a relaxing walk and some unforgettable photos.

If weather permits, a group of Tikipunga High School Dreamers will be onsite hosting each weekend. These youth will be actively assisting with gate sales, welcoming guests, and managing hosting duties. This hands-on involvement offers these incredible rangatahi invaluable, real-world customer service experience in a safe and supportive environment.

Funds raised from the gate entry will directly support life-changing opportunities for all of our Dreamers, including an upcoming South Island expedition for Tikipunga High School Dreamers.

This December, a select group of senior students will challenge themselves on the infamous Otago Rail Trail, enduring a three-day, 150-kilometre cycle designed to test resilience and foster teamwork, thanks to support from Luxury Trail Company. Afterward, the students will travel to Dunedin to stay in student accommodation and explore the historic University of Otago campus to catch an inspiring, firsthand glimpse of future academic and career pathways.

By visiting, you are helping all Dreamers confidently take their next big steps toward the future. Attendees can also learn more about the I Have a Dream Pathways Programme. Run in partnership with Tikipunga High School, the initiative supports and guides students for up to three years post school so that they can connect to their passions, build independence and life experience, and find their dream future pathway. Dreamers in the Pathways Programme are supported by a community based mentor who can help be a supportive role model in their life, connecting with both the young person and their whānau.

Across the time Cath and David’s garden is open for the Magnolia Gardens fundraiser, visitors are warmly invited to wander at their own pace through the towering magnolias and curated spring blooms, beautifully selected by Catherine to make the landscape truly sing.