Grow Your Health Challenge during May
Visit the Christchurch Botanic Gardens | Te Māra Huaota o Waipapa throughout May 2026 where you can complete a simple wellbeing activity - with chances to win along the way. Discover how time in nature supports connection, movement and mindfulness.
Each daily visit qualifies for an entry to the competition, so the more you visit, the more chances to win! It’s that simple.
You could also attend a Botanic Garden Week event - from Monday 18th to Sunday 24th May 2026.
Be sure to share and tag a photo #WhereYourHealthGrows #BGW2026 #your local garden.
Find out more about the Grow Your Health Challenge, including how to register.
The Wellbeing Prescriptions
These prescriptions are designed to inspire wellbeing activities in botanic gardens and are not medical advice.
- The 20 Minute Reset: Walk for 20 minutes in the garden. No phones. No rush.
- The Mindful Moment: Pause for 5 mins. Note 5 things you see, 4 you hear and 3 you can feel.
- Move Your Way: Choose a movement. Walk/jog around the garden, stretch, try yoga.
- Connect and Belong: Bring someone with you or start a conversation in the garden.
- The Colour Hunt: Choose one colour. Walk slowly through the garden noticing every version of that colour you can find.
- Volunteer Connect: Talk to a volunteer about the benefits of being a garden volunteer.
Botanic gardens are uniquely placed to support health and wellbeing because they provide accessible spaces that promote physical activity, restore mental health, foster social connection, and strengthen our bond with nature – all of which are proven to increase overall wellbeing.