Bloomin' Heck! The Roses are Here!

Wellington Botanic Garden's Rose Festival blooms into life this Friday (25 November). Botanic Garden Manager, David Sole, says visitors to the garden will be bowled over by the displays.

"The roses are looking really good this summer. The very first roses on the bush are always vivid and very large" says David.

"See hundreds of roses, enter the Rose Show, vote for your favourite rose, talk to the experts or just enjoy the rosy atmosphere. There's lots to do at this year's festival."

David says, for the first time anyone can enter the festival's rose show competition.

"There are five categories open to the public, including a children's 'Rosy Posy' category," he says.

"The winner of each category will receive a rose of their choice from Tasman Bay Roses."

The Botanic Garden is also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Lady Norwood Begonia House.

There will be an unveiling of the new air plant structure 'Live on Air' followed by guest speaker, renowned plastic surgeon, Professor Swee Tan.

People are also invited to vote for their favourite rose in the Lady Norwood Garden and go into the draw to win a rose plant and a $20 Picnic Cafe voucher.

Anyone named 'Rose' will be pleased to know they can get a free coffee from Picnic Cafe throughout the festival.

Also included in the festival are guided walks and the chance to speak with the curator of the Lady Norwood Rose Garden.

Come along and revel in the roses from Friday 25 to Sunday 27 November.