Last updated June 2026
War Memorial Park is a heritage lakefront park on the edge of Lake Rotorua in central Rotorua, located on Lakefront Drive adjacent to the city centre. The park was developed as Rotorua’s Second World War memorial and opened on Anzac Day 1958 after community fundraising and lakefront reclamation. It remains the city’s principal war memorial site. Following the Rotorua lakefront redevelopment project, the park and surrounding area feature improved landscaping, a playground, and better connections to the city cycleway network. Entry is free.
Practical Information
| Location | Lakefront Drive, central Rotorua — on the edge of Lake Rotorua adjacent to the main visitor area |
| Entry | Free; open daily |
| Facilities | Picnic areas, BBQ facilities, playground, drinking water, toilets |
| Nearby | Government Gardens, Polynesian Spa, Rotorua lakefront walkway |
The War Memorial
Rotorua’s citizens began fundraising in 1951 to create a memorial park beside Lake Rotorua in honour of those who served in the Second World War. Contracts for the reclamation of the lakefront and construction of the memorial gates were let in 1955, and on Anzac Day 1958 the park was officially opened and the gates dedicated. The memorial gates bear four granite tablets listing the names, ranks, and serial numbers of 93 men from the Rotorua area who were killed on active service.
An olive tree gifted by the people of Crete to New Zealand veterans of the Battle of Crete was planted in the park in October 1972. In April 1993, additional plaques were added to commemorate service in the Malayan Emergency and the Korean and Vietnam Wars, acknowledging the broader range of conflicts in which Rotorua people served.
The Lakefront Redevelopment
The Rotorua lakefront, including the area around War Memorial Park, underwent a major redevelopment project valued at $40 million. Works introduced improved landscaping, a children’s playground, reconfigured carparking, and new connections to the city cycleway network. The project has made the lakefront more accessible to pedestrians and cyclists while enhancing the amenity of the park setting.
What Visitors Often Say
War Memorial Park offers a peaceful spot on the Rotorua lakefront with moving memorial gates and good facilities for picnics overlooking the lake. It serves as a convenient starting point for the lakefront walkway.
Visitors appreciate the updated playground and landscaping from the recent redevelopment, noting the park feels welcoming for families and provides easy access to nearby attractions.
Where to Learn More
NZ History — Rotorua Citizens War Memorial: Detailed history of the memorial, fundraising, dedication, and roll of honour.
Rotorua NZ — War Memorial Park: Current visitor information and facilities at the park.
Rotorua Lakes Council — Lake Rotorua reserves: Official details on the lakefront reserve including War Memorial Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is War Memorial Park in Rotorua?
On Lakefront Drive in central Rotorua, directly on the edge of Lake Rotorua. It is adjacent to Government Gardens and the main lakefront visitor area and is walkable from the city centre.
Is War Memorial Park free to visit?
Yes, the park is free to enter and open daily. All facilities including BBQs, picnic areas, and playground are free to use.
Who is commemorated at War Memorial Park?
The memorial gates honour 93 men from the Rotorua area killed on active service in the Second World War. Additional plaques commemorate service in the Malayan Emergency and the Korean and Vietnam Wars.
What is the olive tree in the park?
An olive tree gifted by the people of Crete to New Zealand veterans of the Battle of Crete, planted in October 1972 in recognition of the connection between Rotorua servicemen and the Cretan people during the war.
What are the facilities at War Memorial Park?
Picnic areas, BBQ facilities, a children’s playground, drinking water, and toilets. The park is part of the broader Rotorua lakefront redevelopment which added improved landscaping and cycleway connections.
When was the lakefront redevelopment completed?
The $40 million project progressed through 2021 with key elements such as the playground and boardwalk opened during that year.
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