Government Gardens, A blend of thermal wonders and cultural elegance

Queens Drive, Government Gardens, Rotorua

The green lawn is in front of me

4.3

Introduction

The Government Gardens, located by the lake in the center of Rotorua, were originally named Paepaekumana and hold historical significance for the local Maori people. In the late 19th century, this 50-acre land was gifted by the Maori to the government with the hope of benefiting people worldwide. The geothermal area of the park has several therapeutic hot pools and, after refurbishment, the park became a traditional garden with botanical landscapes, while still retaining some large plants and historic buildings. In 1908, the New Zealand government built a large boutique bathhouse in the Government Gardens, designed in the Elizabethan Tudor style, now known as the Rotorua Museum. Additionally, the Blue Baths, established in the early 1930s, offers not only therapeutic services but also serves as a social venue where men and women can bathe together, making it one of the earliest co-ed bathhouses in the world. Today, the Polynesian Spa in the Government Gardens is also a popular attraction. The whole park area offers visitors a convenient location for leisurely activities, enjoying beautiful gardens, exploring historic architecture, and relaxing in the hot springs.