Grove one of our best kept secrets

STUNNING VIEWS: Centennial Park's spectacular maple grove is bursting with colour this spring. PHOTO/SUPPLIED 181013MG1

The maple grove at Centennial Park (formerly known as the Tree Trust) is bursting into colourful bloom and the Rotorua District Council is encouraging locals to get outside and enjoy the "treasure trove of goodies" at this spectacular community facility.

The council began work on the maple grove in 2009 and it has now reached the stage where it is providing a spectacular array of seasonal colour and beauty.

The area selected for development was the old gully running from the main access on Mokoia Dr, through the park, down to the back of the Commercial Travellers Club on Moncur Dr.

Council parks and recreation manager Garry Page said while the gully was covered in noxious weeds with gorse growing several metres high, Centennial Park was an ideal site for establishing the maple grove.

"Maples do particularly well in Rotorua as we have acid soils, not too much wind compared to other cities, and we can also have heavy frosts.

"These factors favour the establishment of maples, and our goal is to eventually have the greatest range of Japanese maples within the country.

"Other complementary trees, shrubs and ground cover which suit the same soil and environmental conditions have also been planted.

"The grove at present is absolutely stunning. Maples are bursting into life, azaleas, rhododendrons and other exquisite shrubs are beginning to flower. It's truly a treasure-trove of goodies."

Mr Page said all plants had labels for identification and he encouraged locals to take their friends, family and visitors for a stroll through the garden on their next visit to Centennial Park.

"It is certainly one of Rotorua's best kept secrets, but word is getting out and it's becoming a much admired, must-see attraction for visitors and locals alike and adding to our reputation for some of the country's best gardens and floral displays," Mr Page said.