Ora Garden Facts
Ora is Maori for wellbeing, hence the traditional Maori greeting 'kia ora', literally meaning 'be well'.
The Ora Garden is the result of the combined creative energy of six talented New Zealanders: Kim Jarrett, Lyonel Grant, Trish Waugh, Brian Massey, Doug Waugh and Tina Hart.
After the Ora garden won a gold medal at the 'plant Olympics' (London's Chelsea Flower Show in 2004), its original design elements including the artwork, silica terraces and paving were returned to New Zealand. This stunning central North Island themed garden was purchased by the local community and the Taupo District Council. The garden was installed in late 2006 at the museum by the original design team and officially opened in March 2007.
In 2008, the New Zealand Garden Trust selected Ora as one of its prestigious Gardens of National Significance. At just under 120 square metres, it is one of the smallest gardens in this category. It was chosen for its strong design elements encapsulating spiritual qualities, a brilliant planting scheme illustrating the natural layering of native plants, plus its very special history at the Chelsea show (gold medal winner).
