About Us
History
Fernglen, named after the family home in England, was purchased by the Fisher family in July 1888. The property consisted of a mix of native bush and scrubland. Part of the scrubland was cleared for market gardening and grazing, and the native bush area was interplanted with pÅhutukawa, rimu and kahikatea in the early 1920s.
Fernglen has been used for education and research since the 1920s by such people as T.F. Cheeseman of the Auckland Museum, Professor Lancaster of the Auckland University, H.B. Dobbie, Frank Fisher and his son William and by Muriel Fisher. More about the history of Fernglen
Education Centre
Fernglen has been visited by many people from horticultural groups, Unitec students and schoolchildren. It became clear early on that Fernglen required a building that could cater for schoolchildren and visitors. It was Fernglen's good fortune that Peter Thomas, Birkenhead Rotary Club, took a keen interest in the gardens and it was through his recommendation the education centre was built thanks to the fund-raising effort of the Birkenhead Rotary Club and supported by the former North Shore City Council, ASB, Utility Corporation and other well-wishers the project came together. Thanks to Birkenhead Rotary Club, Fernglen has a well-equipped education facility which was completed in 1997.
Friends of Fernglen
As Fernglen grows, it needs continued support from interested members of the community. One way to show your support is by joining the mailing list and receive newsletters every quarter and/or donate to the gardens. Fernglen is reliant on the community to assist with monthly working bees and financial support to assist in maintaining and growing its rare plant collection.