Cornwall Park is committed to environmental stewardship and the preservation of our vast green spaces. That's why we are chuffed to announce the New Zealand Gardens Trust has formally endorsed Cornwall Park as a 5-star Garden of National Significance. This accreditation, which spans from January 2026 through to January 2029, serves as a validation of the park’s standards in horticultural design, maintenance, and community impact.

This achievement is a direct reflection of the exceptional skill, long-term vision, and technical expertise of Jo Alder and her dedicated nursery team. Furthermore, it stands as a testament to the collective commitment of the entire Cornwall Park crew, whose daily efforts ensure the park remains an urban sanctuary in the heart of Auckland city.

Key Highlights from the Endorsement

This award recognises the significant work conducted behind the scenes and our unwavering commitment to the park's unique heritage. In their assessment, the Gardens Trust specifically highlighted several core pillars of our operations:

• Enduring Integrity: Upholding the original foresight and ambition of the classic 'landscape park' design that defines our identity.
• Prioritising People: Improving the visitor experience by progressively closing roads and making the park safer and more accessible for all members of the community.
• Arboricultural Excellence: Nurturing our outstanding collection of mature trees through a thoughtful, long-term planting strategy and expert care.
• Leading Sustainability: Implementing innovative, organic methods – such as ‘chop-and-drop’ weed management – to foster soil health and ecological resilience.
• Heritage Preservation: The meticulous conservation of original architectural features, including our iconic stone walls, grand stairways, and distinctive serpentine edging

As lead assessor Paul Roper-Gee noted: “You see the skill, experience, and commitment that set them apart, and it’s a privilege to spend time with the people who make that happen.”
A heartfelt thank you goes out to every member of the Cornwall Park crew who contributes to this much-loved green space. Your mahi ensures this Auckland treasure remains an exemplary blend of cultural and botanical heritage for generations to come.