Last updated July 2026
Tihiotonga Centennial Park is a 20-hectare rural reserve on the slopes of Tihiotonga along Mokoia Drive in Rotorua. Formerly known as the Rotorua Tree Trust, the park was established to allow people to dedicate memorial trees in remembrance of loved ones or to mark special occasions. The result is a lightly managed, sheep-grazed landscape that has matured into an informal arboretum of meaningful plantings across rolling hills and steep gullies. Key seasonal attractions include a Maple Grove that turns gold and red in autumn and cherry trees that produce pink blossom in spring, along with a Peace Memorial. Entry is free and the park remains open daily.
Practical Information
| Location | Mokoia Drive, Tihiotonga, Rotorua |
| Managed by | Rotorua Lakes Council |
| Area | 20 hectares of rolling land with steep gullies |
| Entry | Free; open daily |
| Dogs | Allowed on lead only due to stock grazing |
| Best seasons | Spring for cherry blossoms; autumn for Maple Grove colours |
| Facilities | Toilets, picnic tables, BBQ areas |
About Tihiotonga Centennial Park
Tihiotonga Centennial Park occupies a rural setting on the southern slopes above Rotorua city. The reserve was created specifically for memorial tree plantings, resulting in a collection of individually dedicated trees rather than a formal garden layout. Sheep continue to graze the land as part of its ongoing management, giving the park a pastoral character with open grassy areas between the plantings.
The Maple Grove draws visitors each autumn when the trees display vibrant gold and red foliage. In spring the cherry trees produce a lighter display of pink blossom. A Peace Memorial provides a focal point for reflection within the broader landscape of memorial trees.
The park is maintained as a rural reserve rather than an intensively manicured garden. Vehicle access gates operate on seasonal hours, and the site offers basic facilities including toilets, picnic tables and BBQ areas.
Walking at Tihiotonga Centennial Park
Scenic walking trails wind through the rolling hills and deep gullies of the reserve. The paths provide access to the Maple Grove, cherry plantings and other memorial areas while offering views across the pastoral landscape. Walks are informal and suited to a relaxed pace, with the sheep-grazed setting adding to the rural atmosphere. The trails are particularly popular during the spring blossom and autumn colour seasons when the foliage lines the routes.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the park as a peaceful hidden spot with beautiful seasonal colour changes in the Maple Grove and cherry trees. Many appreciate the quiet rural feel, the presence of grazing sheep and the opportunity for relaxed walks away from busier tourist sites.
Reviewers note the park is dog-friendly on leads and offers simple facilities like toilets and picnic areas. Several mention returning specifically for the autumn foliage or spring blossoms and enjoying the contemplative memorial tree setting.
Where to Learn More
Rotorua Lakes Council – Centennial Park: official page with access details, facilities and rules.
Rotorua NZ – Centennial Park: visitor information and seasonal highlights.
Rotorua Lakes Council – Park Reserves: overview of all Rotorua parks and reserves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tihiotonga Centennial Park?
On Mokoia Drive in the Tihiotonga area on the southern slopes above Rotorua city.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring for cherry blossom displays and autumn for the Maple Grove colours. The park is open year-round.
Is the park free?
Yes, Tihiotonga Centennial Park is a free public reserve open daily.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but dogs must remain on a lead at all times because sheep graze the reserve.
Are there walking tracks?
Yes, informal walking trails wind through the hills and gullies, passing memorial plantings and seasonal foliage areas.
What facilities are available?
Toilets, picnic tables and BBQ areas are provided on site.
Is vehicle access restricted?
The main gates operate on seasonal opening hours; check the council website for current times.
What is the Peace Memorial?
A memorial installation within the park that serves as a point of reflection among the memorial trees.
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