Government Gardens — Attraction in North Island

The gardens are beautiful and well-maintained, and it makes for a nice, easy walk, with no hills or stairs. Some big open areas without shade, though, so make sure you bring your hat and slather on that sunscreen if it is a sunny day like the day I went.

The geothermal areas were a bit of a low point. Experience such wonders as water with some smoke floating above it, or muddy water that has fewer bubbles than a bottle of cola. Still, it's worth what you pay, which is zero—so you can't really complain, eh? There are lots of cool sculptures to look at along the walk as well.

The museum is STILL undergoing renovations. Like, do they just have one guy working on it or what? Haha. It is a shame, as it is a bit of an eyesore all covered up like that.

Anyway, it's a nice place for a picnic and not...

Not much to do here except walk around for a little while. Museum is closed and the Blue Baths pools are closed. Both buildings have large metal chain fences surrounding them. Did some research.. museum is closed as it the building is not up to earthquake safety standards. Not sure why the baths closed. The gardens are very well kept with beautiful flowers and there is a koi pond I stopped to look at with lots of fish!

There were quite a few bowling greens which was interesting to see but not may people playing. There are also a coupe of gazebos - great for photograph.

There were several thermal spots which smell strongly of sulfur and a couple of ponds that are entirely grey.

Additional notes.. public restrooms...

I first visited several years ago in 2011. It was just as I remembered, so pretty and a photographer's dream. Lush greenery beautiful flora. Disappointing to see the Museum closed and surrounded with fencing. It has been deemed vulnerable should there be any earthquake activity. A local told us it had been closed for a year and a half. Luckily it can be strengthened although nothing appears to be happening with it at present. The museum is a wonderful building. Find the money if you can it's a wonderful asset. I hope on our next visit from the UK, to see the museum reopened and earning it's keep as part of this lovely...