30 Jun 2013

Botanic garden turns 150

7:35 am on 30 June 2013

New Zealand's oldest botanic garden is celebrating its 150th anniversary.

The Dunedin Botanic Garden is holding a year of events to mark its establishment in 1863, and has been refurbishing its entrance gates.

Curator Alan Matchett says the 150th anniversary is a chance to reflect on how it has grown into an internationally significant public garden.

Mr Matchett says the garden is renowned for its rhododendron and geographical plant collections, and has developed its own special structure.

He says the garden is planning many new developments, including a new glasshouse and nursery, and improved visitor facilities.

A ceremony led by the city's mayor to celebrate the anniversary was being held from 11am on Sunday.