Totara Waters Subtropical Garden, almost one hectare in extent, is nestled on the shores of the upper Waitemata Harbour where it displays many rare and collectable plants sourced from around the North Island. Development of the garden on an almost bare site began in 1999 when truck loads of lichen covered rocks and boulders were brought in from a local quarry. The large sub-tropical plant collection differs widely with specimens from many different genre - large bromeliad collection, cycads, Beaucanea, Yuccas, Aloe, Agave, Strelitzia and scores of palms. These are arranged in island beds and on sweeping lawns in a style evoking the tropics. There is also a large collection of bonsai, some grown from seed sown 40 years ago. Ornamentation is a feature at Totara Waters - old chimney pots gathered from around New Zealand (and some from the United Kingdom) and large crucibles as well, all collected over time. An unusual sight greets visitors at the bottom of the garden where the rusting hulk of HMNZS Hawera has been abandoned since the early 1950s.  Plants for sale monday to saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Specialist bromeliad growers.  Tariff:  Morning/Afternoon Teas by arrangement. Entry for overseas groups $10 pp with guided tour. Accommodation:  1 bedroom fully  self contained  flat (separate from house).   See website for details www.totarawaters.co.nz  (link www.totarawaters.co.nz/accommodation.htm)