A comprehensive 10-year plan for Hamilton Gardens looks set to build on the popularity of the attraction.
The plan sets new goals and directions for the next decade based on ideas generated by a working group made up of councillors, advisers and council staff, and public submissions.
It will see an increase in the number of public activities and events that complement the gardens environment; the remaining 12 planned conceptual gardens will be completed; interpretative of the gardens using a variety of methods including signs and mobile technology; a large destination playground and other child-friendly aspects will be incorporated.
Improving the gardens' connection with the Waikato River is also addressed; an improved jetty is planned in a more accessible location, river walks will be developed and a longer term project is to build a pedestrian bridge across the river to reserve land below the Glenview Club.
Additional toilets will be installed and school education resources will be developed. Entry to the gardens will remain free.
Part of the plan is to improve the economic spin-off the gardens generate for the city. That's already worth millions of dollars each year and by further developing the gardens it is hoped tourists will spend longer at the gardens and, in turn, stay longer in the city and spend more.
Councillor Angela O'Leary said the facility was a credit to the vision of Hamilton Gardens director, Peter Sergel. On a recent working group tour at the gardens, members heard how far back Mr Sergel's vision to open the gardens up to the river spans.
The draft plan was approved last week for public consultation by the council's strategy and policy committee. It is expected that submissions will open tomorrow and hearings will be held in February.