About - Arboretum

The Percy Thomson Arboretum adjoins Windsor Park on the banks of the Patea River and forms part of the Carrington walkway.  It was created with assistance from a bequest by Percy Thomson, a former mayor of Stratford, who had specifically requested that an arboretum be developed.

The arboretum contains specimen plants native to New Zealand, in particular the Taranaki region, and includes some specimens which have descended from the former Gondwana continent. Details of all plants may be found on the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network website. 

Developed in 2001 the arboretum covers less than half an hectare, is on level ground and has a looped pathway.  There is a pleasant seating area good for resting, picnicking or just enjoying the atmosphere.

Current projects for the arboretum include establishing a “Friends of the Arboretum” and trialling a labelling system for the plants using QR codes that link back to the New Zealand Plant Conservation Network.

Percy Thomson Trustees are always interested in receiving feedback about how best to utilise this space, so if you have ideas and/or would like to explore becoming a “Friend” please use our contact page.  We look forward to hearing from you.