The Looking Glass Garden is a magical garden wonderland where fairy tales and nursery rhymes come to life. Nestled in the Papamoa Hills overlooking Te Puke, the open-to-the-public 8 hectare (20 acres) garden was developed over 33 years by former owners Gael & Cedric Blaymires. Here you will find characters and settings from popular children’s books and nursery rhymes such as Alice in Wonderland, The Three Little Pigs, Goldilocks and The Three Bears, Humpty Dumpty and much more.
There is so much to explore in this garden with sculptures, artworks, miniature houses of nursery rhyme characters, secret hiding places as well as flowers and birdlife. The Stairway to Heaven has 196 steps but the view from the top is spectacular.
Some of the sculptures and miniature buildings are starting to look a bit tired but it is still a fun excursion for the family. Take a picnic to have along the way, the kids will love discovering what fairy tale character is hiding around the corner. A great day out for the whole family.
Note: Take food and drinks as there are no shops onsite. There are lots of steep sections so avoid bringing the stroller. Go on a sunny day to enjoy the view from the top of the hill. Entry fee is by way of an honesty box so correct change is a must. Take the route via Te Puke Highway as the other route via Welcome Bay is windy, narrow and on gravel road!