Matakana’s Cherry Blossoms A Blooming Spectacle

Cherry blossom aficionados no doubt already have Matakana Village on their lists for spring blossom splendour viewing but for those not in the know, we’re letting the secret out of the bag.

The flowering cherry trees (prunus awanui), planted in 2006 by Matakana Village founders Richard and Christine Didsbury, are now an annual attraction in addition to the popular weekly Matakana Village Farmers’ Market on Saturdays.

“Over the past few years, we’ve seen an increasing number of visitors drawn to Matakana Village in spring to enjoy the cherry blossoms. It’s a special and magical time of year that herald’s optimism and regrowth as well as being a beautiful backdrop for capturing special moments and sharing the magic,” says Richard Didsbury.

The maturity of the trees has now put Matakana Village firmly on the spring floral map as one of the best places to see and enjoy the fleeting cherry blossom season in Aotearoa.

Cherry blossoms typically begin to bloom in New Zealand in early September, though many flower from mid-late September to early October. The duration of their season can vary depending on location and weather conditions.

Last year the blossoms in Matakana unfurled in early October 2024. Peak bloom typically lasts one to two weeks depending on the weather with cold spells extending the blooming period and warm spells or heavy rain shortening it.

This means Matakana Village retailers and locals will be keeping a careful watch on the buds of their blossom trees. When pink all over in colour, the trees are generally 10 – 14 days from peak bloom. When petals begin to show themselves it’s only a four to five day wait for the floral spectacular!

Didsbury recommends that enthusiasts keep an eye on the Matakana Village Instagram (@matakanavillage) for blossom updates.

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