Roses & Romance: back in bloom after 28 years

Event: Roses & Romance: National Rose Show
Duration: 16-17 November 2024
Hosts: Franklin Rose Society

Spring is in season, and the roses were on display for enthusiasts and horticulturists from all corners of the country. The New Zealand Rose Society romanced the public with their best selection of roses when the National Rose Show made its return to Pukekohe for the first time in almost three decades.

The event was a ‘celebration for the beauty and diversity of roses.’

For one weekend only, Pukekohe was host to a show selection of roses, which offered unique floral displays and decorative themed arrangements. Some roses were available for purchase, alongside niche stalls, food trucks, and like-minded people. The setting provided opportunities to learn from rose enthusiasts, who were happy to share their knowledge and experience.

Hosted by Franklin Rose Society the ‘Roses & Romance’ show was an event which showcased exhibitors most prized blooms of the year and brought the community together. Supported by local sponsors, the event offered something for all ages.

Exhibitors from around the country showcased their beautiful blooms to compete for National Awards. Competition roses ranged in shape, colour, variety and size, including specialised categories and themed displays.

President of the Franklin Rose Society, and show convener, Adrian Bullen said exhibitors from all over the country follow the national show and compete for champion awards. “From Kaitaia to Bluff” but this was the first time the national show had come to Pukekohe in 28 years.

“This year we’ve got a rejuvenating and enthusiastic committee.”

Bullen said nominees are put forward each year throughout the different rose societies, to host the National Rose Show. “For a long time, Franklin hasn’t put their hand up. The last show in Pukekohe was 1996.” He said hosting the show this year gives the society an opportunity to bring in more interest.

“Part of what the show’s about is bringing in people who are enthusiastic about roses through the door,” he said it’s about making connections in the community, asking questions and talking to people involved behind the scenes.

Bullen said there are 22 district rose societies throughout New Zealand and most of them host their own rose shows, but the national show brings a cocktail of elite and novice exhibitors.

“We’re starting to get a mix of younger members come through,” he said for a long-time the society has had interest from the senior community but is now experiencing a bit of a refresh with a different generation of new members joining. “With that comes the energy to bring these shows to the public.”

“Our long-time members come with years of experience to share, for younger members coming through, they can carry that knowledge on.”

The two-day exhibition was an event which captured the symbolic love and passion of the rose.

“The national show brings in the best of experienced exhibitors and the younger enthusiastic ones, who come to try their hand and compete at a national level.” Said Bullen

Each year the National Rose Show is ‘the marquee event’ in the rose calendar for members of the New Zealand Rose Society, it’s 22 affiliated Districts, and for the public.

Next year’s annual event is set to be held in the Waikato, at the Hamilton gardens.