Victorian Flower Garden

This area of smooth green lawns and colourful flower beds was the first part of Hamilton Gardens to be developed.

Gardenesque gardens are intentionally artificial and contrived. The planting was organised to show the plants to their best effect rather than to recreate naturally occurring vegetation patterns.

Specimen trees stand alone in the middle of lawns and colourful annuals are planted en masse in geometrical patterns. This style of garden is generally intended to display the skill of the gardener.

A major influence was the invention of the domestic lawnmower in the late 19th century which encouraged a Victorian fashion for well-tended lawns among.

LITTLE BULL

Unveiled in 1968, 'Little Bull' was the first addition to Hamilton City Council's public art collection. The bronze sculpture was sponsored by Hamilton Jaycees as a centennial gift to the city, supported by the Queen Elizabeth Arts Council, and the residents of Hamilton.

It's a familiar sight now, but Molly Macalister's stylistic artwork initially caused an outrage. It was considered unappealing and too modern, with some people calling for it to be removed. 

GLASSHOUSES

Hamilton City Council closed the glasshouses located next to Cobham Drive on 14 December 2020.

Built in the 1960s when energy efficiency was not a consideration, the gas-heated buildings were well past their 'best before' date. They have been closed to the public as a cost-saving measure and because they are no longer fit for purpose.

Hamilton Gardens is working on reducing its carbon footprint and modern glasshouses are far more cost effective and efficient. A new Pasifika Garden is under construction which will be enclosed by a tall glasshouse and, where possible, plants from the old glasshouses will be rehomed within the Gardens. They have also been offered to botanic gardens and nurseries around New Zealand.