Bason Botanic Gardens is a public botanic garden at 552 Rapanui Rd in Castlecliff, Whanganui. It has a 4.7 rating from 628 Google reviews. Its website says it covers 25 hectares of landscaped countryside, is recognised by the NZ Gardens Trust as a Garden of Significance, and holds one of New Zealand's most extensive public orchid collections, with unique conservatory architecture. It was gifted to the council by Stanley and Blanche Bason in 1966 and is supported by a trust and volunteers. Reviewers mention built-in barbecues, shelters, lawns, a frisbee golf course, a conservatory and an easy picnic stop.
A botanical garden is a good place to learn about plants as well as enjoy them, so look for labels and collection areas, and ask volunteers what is in flower. Spring and summer bring the most blooms, but good gardens offer something in every season. Wear walking shoes, bring water and a hat, and leave time for a picnic. Weekdays are quieter, and weekends are better for family outings.
For gardens, orchids and a picnic near Whanganui, Bason Botanic Gardens is a well-loved day out.