Rotorua's iconic Government Gardens will soon be home to a new sculpture and leisure trail.
Plans are also under way to redevelop a popular old attraction, Sulphur Lake, at the southern end of Government Gardens, which was created around 1908 as one of a number of artificial lakelets providing a tranquil setting and healing waters for patients of the nearby Sanatorium and Bath House.
Rotorua District Council community arts officer Marc Spijkerbosch said that at one point the lakelet was completely devoid of vegetation and became known as "The Casting Pool" - a place to practise the art of fly-fishing.
However, in recent years the lake and surrounding area had become neglected with overgrown pathways and litter, he said. "The establishment of a sculpture and leisure trail in Government Gardens will have enormous benefits for the area, and for locals and tourists alike.
"I'm very excited about this project. The lake is a true gem. It's in the perfect location, has tremendous potential and not many locals know about it."