Fodor's Expert Review Government Gardens

Rotorua Garden

Heading south from Lake Rotorua takes you to the Government Gardens, which occupy a small peninsula. The Māori call this area Whangapiro (fang-ah-pee-ro, "evil-smelling place"), an appropriate name for these gardens, where sulfur pits bubble and fume behind manicured rose beds and bowling lawns. The high point is the extraordinary neo-Tudor Bath House. Built as a spa at the turn of the 20th century, it is now the Rotorua Museum but currently closed to the public for seismic strengthening (reopening at the earliest in 2025). However, free daily garden tours are still offered at 11, 1, and 2 weekdays, 11 and 2 weekends.

Garden

Quick Facts

Oruawhata Dr.
Rotorua, Bay of Plenty  3010, New Zealand

64-07-350–1814

www.rotoruamuseum.co.nz

Sight Details:
Rate Includes: Gardens free

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