Since its inception in 1981, West Lynn Garden - Te Mara Kahuku, a volunteer-run Society, has grown to become a much-loved icon of West Auckland. It is a tranquil retreat, an education centre, wedding venue and memorial to loved ones that has increased in beauty over the years. In recent years it has become more widely known, not only for its beautiful gardens but also for its Monarch Butterfly breeding programme. School Groups are regular and important visitors to West Lynn Garden. Over 2,500 came through the garden last year to learn about the Monarch Butterfly Lifecycle, the collection of Native Trees and to take this hands-on experience back to the classroom projects. West Lynn Garden - Te Mara Kahuku is guardian of a collection of 50 Heritage Listed trees, both native and imported. Among them are Rewarewa, Golden Totara, NZ and Australian Kauri, Kahikatea, Tanekaha and Kawaka. A number of these trees are also on the Endangered List so it is a rare opportunity for our city-dwelling children to see them. Throughout the year The Garden and its new Function Centre witnesses numerous family and community events. These Gardens are a special place, only made possible by the 5,000+ hours donated each year by its teams of volunteers. In addition to welcoming the public 365 days a year, special Festival days are also held throughout the year (Children’s day, Mother’s Day, Spring Carnival, Christmas Carols etc)