The Waterlily Gardens

24/05/2026

Did you know we have two onsite cottages you can come and stay in for a cosy winter getaway?
Our Lotus Cottage (sleeps 2) and Lilypad Cottage (sleeps 4) are private, fully self-contained, and have wood burners to keep you nice and toasty through the cooler months.
One of the best parts about staying in the off-season is getting to experience The Waterlily Gardens when it’s quiet, peaceful and the gardens all to yourself.
Whether you’re after a romantic weekend away, a catch-up with friends, or just an excuse to slow down for a couple of days, the cottages are such a special little escape.
Both cottages are available on Airbnb this winter.

19/05/2026

We are looking for our next super star chef!

The Waterlily Gardens is one of Waikato’s most unique venues, hosting beautiful weddings and special events throughout the season. We are looking for a talented and reliable Chef, who will fit in with our fun, hardworking team culture to join our team for the upcoming wedding season (September-May).
This is a casual position, generally working two days per event week — a prep day and an event day.

If you love hospitality, weddings, and creating memorable food experiences, we’d love to hear from you, for more information and to apply for the position, please contact Tracey or Cath at [email protected].

10/05/2026

Happy Mother’s Day to all the amazing mums and mother figures we celebrated with today at our Mother’s Day High Tea at The Waterlily Gardens. Thank you so much to everyone who joined us for such a beautiful day. A big thank you to my own mum, who truly is the best mum ever! I’m so lucky to do this alongside you.
Huge thanks as well to The Photobooth Lady for being here all day capturing gorgeous snaps and special memories for everyone.
We loved celebrating with you all!

29/04/2026

And just like that, the 2025/2026 wedding season is done. Unforgettable and pure magic. Our couples, our vendor partners and our staff, cheers to you 🥂

18/04/2026

Only 3 weeks to go until Mother's Day and we’re so excited to be partnering with Anmea, The Photobooth Lady at this year’s Mother’s Day High Tea at The Waterlily Gardens.
She’ll be here on the day, and you'll be able to snap some gorgeous photos of you and the fab ladies in your life!
Tables are filling up quick so make sure to book and don't miss out!

Treat mum this Mothers Day with High Tea at The Waterlily Gardens

06/04/2026

Since opening to the public in 1954, The Waterlily Gardens has been part of so many special memories. It’s rich history is something we are incredibly proud of, and we love hearing stories and seeing photos from years gone by.
This lovely photo was shared by one of our awesome vendor partners, Siobahn from , of her grandparents, Paeroa locals, Tom and Barbara Carden, visiting the gardens in 2019 when the café was still open. How the patio has changed! We’re happy to say the palm they generously gifted behind them is still standing proudly in our main lawn garden today.
Do you have memories or photos from your time at The Waterlily Gardens? We’d love to see them.

25/03/2026

Join us this Mother’s Day for high tea at the gardens.
Enjoy a delicious high tea, wander the grounds, and spend quality time celebrating the special women in your life.

Whether you’re treating Mum, bringing Nan, or gathering your girls for a catch-up, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down and enjoy the day together in a truly special setting.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the gardens.

30/01/2026

We’ve booked the queens.
We’ve planned the feast.
We’ve polished the heels.

All that’s missing… is YOU. 👀✨

This Waitangi Weekend, join Kita Mean, Rita Menu, Tess Tickle & Miss Geena for a night of drag, dinner, and downright fabulous chaos.
Grab your tickets, bring your friends, and let’s make this night legendary.
https://www.waterlily.co.nz/event-details/the-waterlily-gardens-present-queens-of-drag

26/01/2026

Still deciding what to do this Waitangi Weekend?
Weve got you covered! A three-course feast, sky-high heels, outrageous comedy, and Kita Mean (yes, that Kita Mean) lighting up the stage.
If your long weekend plans don’t include drag queens and dinner… are you even doing it right?
Limited tickets — check out our website to get yours!

23/01/2026

A wild few days, to say the least! Our thoughts are with everyone affected by the extreme weather, and we hope you’re all safe and starting to come out the other side. We count ourselves incredibly lucky that our impact was limited to very high-water levels and very soggy lawns. Please stay safe out there!
With the lawns drying out and roads now open, we are ready and so excited to celebrate Christina and Jeremiah as they tie the knot tomorrow!