A whole bunch of talented local gardeners and artists are in full preparation mode for the upcoming Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival.

The people opening their gardens and studios to the public during the November 19 to 22 event include many newcomers to the festival’s garden and art trail.

Festival director Marc Anderson said the 2026 festival, sponsored by Bayleys, would feature a “pleasing mix” of previous favourites and newcomers.

Some gardeners have featured in previous years, but have since moved house and have new plots to proudly showcase.

Festival newcomer Jenny Tollemache has a cottage-styled garden in Gate Pā that festival organisers described as bursting with floral beauty, meandering brick paths, clipped hedging and her own wee art studio.

Bay of Plenty Garden and Art Festival director Marc Anderson with festival newcomer Jenny Tollemache in her garden.

Those venturing up into the Whakamārama hills can visit Hans and Lynne Meys’ 9ha property, named Waione. There, sheep graze, a spring-fed stream complete with a small waterfall flows, trees tower and plenty of other plants thrive.

Meanwhile, Pāpāmoa is home to artistic recycler and forager Wendy Tustin.

Her work will be on display in her subtropical garden. Wendy finds inspiration in items such as large plant leaves, flax, flowers, various-sized bottles and op-shop finds like earrings and silk scarves that end up embellishing her creations.

Also new to the festival is artist Wendy Tustin.

Eighty-five garden and art stops will be on this year’s trail, and there will be an opportunity to meet more than 100 artists who will display their work throughout Western Bay of Plenty gardens, studios and galleries.

The trails are sponsored by Palmers Bethlehem in partnership with Metlifecare Greenwood Park.

Tickets to the biennial festival are available at Palmers Bethlehem, Decor Gardenworld, isite Tauranga, Pacifica Garden Centre, Te Puke Florist, the Arts Junction Katikati and online at eventfinda.co.nz.