Tihiotonga Centennial Park is a 20-hectare rural reserve on the slopes of Tihiotonga on Mokoia Drive, Rotorua. The park was developed as a place for people to dedicate memorial trees for family members or local dignitaries — each tree a living tribute to a person or occasion. The result is an unusual and contemplative park: lightly managed, sheep-grazed, and gradually maturing into an arboretum of memorial plantings. Key features include a Maple Grove that colours dramatically in autumn, cherry trees that bloom pink in spring, and a Peace Memorial. Entry is free. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead due to livestock.
Practical Information
| Location | Mokoia Drive, Tihiotonga, Rotorua |
| Managed by | Rotorua Lakes Council (formerly Rotorua Tree Trust) |
| Area | 20 hectares of rolling land with steep gullies |
| Entry | Free; open daily |
| Dogs | Allowed on lead only — sheep graze the reserve |
| Best seasons | Spring (cherry blossoms); autumn (Maple Grove colours) |
| Tree adoptions | Closed — all available trees have been adopted |
The Memorial Trees
The concept behind Tihiotonga Centennial Park — formerly managed as the Rotorua Tree Trust — was to provide land where people could dedicate trees in remembrance of loved ones or to mark significant occasions. The park has now been fully adopted: all available tree spots have been allocated. The result is a growing collection of individually meaningful trees across 20 hectares of sloping ground. The park is managed as a rural reserve rather than a formal public garden — sheep graze between the trees, the ground is not under intensive maintenance, and the character is closer to a pastoral landscape than a manicured park.
The Maple Grove is one of the most visited parts of the reserve, particularly in autumn when the maples turn gold and red. In spring, cherry trees produce a display of light pink blossom. Both seasons draw visitors specifically for the colour. A Peace Memorial provides a focal point within the park.
“Tihiotonga Centennial Park is a hidden gem in Rotorua — the cherry blossoms in spring are stunning, and the Maple Grove in autumn is beautiful. Very peaceful, very different from the geothermal tourist spots.” — visitor account
Where to Learn More
Rotorua Lakes Council — Centennial Park — official reserve information.
Rotorua NZ — Centennial Park — visitor guide with facilities and what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Tihiotonga Centennial Park?
On Mokoia Drive in the Tihiotonga area of Rotorua, on the slopes above the city.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring (September–October) for the cherry blossoms; autumn (April–May) for the Maple Grove colours. The park is worth visiting in both seasons specifically for the flowering trees.
Is the park free?
Yes — Tihiotonga Centennial Park is a free public reserve, open daily.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, but dogs must be on a lead at all times. Sheep graze the reserve and must not be disturbed.
Can I adopt a tree at the park?
No — all available trees have now been adopted and the adoption programme is permanently closed. The trees already planted continue to mature.
What is the Peace Memorial?
A memorial installation within the park grounds, providing a point of reflection within the broader landscape of memorial trees.
Tihiotonga Centennial Park is one of Rotorua’s quieter reserves. See the Rotorua parks and reserves guide for other outdoor options around the district.
