The CSSNZ is dedicated to the Growing of Cactus & Succulents in New Zealand

Extensive branch network across NZ

We hold an annual Conference & AGM each year, plus shows and displays locally for the general public

The CSSNZ prints a quarterly journal, and operates a seedbank with early release and cheaper prices for members.

Welcome to the Hawkes Bay Branch of the CSSNZ Inc.

Meetings are held on the Second Tuesday of the month (except January), 7.30 pm
Taradale Senior Citizens Rooms, off Symonds Lane, Taradale

The meeting consists of a talk or discussion by a speaker/s, an interest table (Edna Taylor Cup at the end of the year for most points), raffle/s and sales table. There is also competition for succulents and cacti (see below). Supper is provided.

Plant Competition Each Month - this year any plant may be entered in the two categories which is voted by popular vote. The two categories are - Cacti open and 10cm, and Succulent open and 10cm.

Local members collections are open for visiting by prior arrangement.

The annual subscription is the same as the national CSSNZ subscription, there being no extra branch fee.

History of the branch

The inaugural meeting of the Hastings Branch of the Cactus and Succulent Society of New Zealand was held on the 9th May 1964 with 15 members gathered. Lilian McIntosh was elected as President and the Branch was formed.

In the same year, Viv Launder-Millin was made Patron. Some may not know that he was also elected the first President of the NZ Cactus and Succulent Society on the 18th February 1948. He was later to become a Life member of the Branch, as was Edna Taylor. Anyone who visited Viv at his home on the Napier hill would come away with cuttings and spare plants from his glasshouses or outdoor plantings.

In 1972 the branch had a change of name to Hawke's Bay Branch of the CSSNZ. The branch has also hosted four AGMs and Conferences in 1987, 1993, 1999 and 2009.

Meetings and upcoming events

The monthly competition, plant of your choice (cactus and succulent - open class and 10cm), is attracting a very nice selection of plants each month.

Afternoon meetings will be June 12th, July 10th and August 14th after which we will resume night meetings. The soup and bun night will be at the May meeting 2011.

The December Newsletter in PDF format.