From Napier CBD travel north along Marine Parade which becomes Breakwater Rd) until you reach an intersection with Coote Rd - and you've arrived!

The gardens were developed in 1974 to commemorate the centenary of the establishment of Napier, but they were once a quarry manned by prison labour.

Water is a significant landscaping feature. From the lower pool, water is pumped to the main pool and then to the top of the cliff where it cascades in down the 40-metre rock face.

Spray from the waterfall has encouraged the growth of plants on the limestone cliff face. At night, when lit with green illumination, the scene is one of almost primeval beauty.

Top tip

Opposite the gardens on a hillside across Coote Road, the historic former prison has been preserved and now has a new life as a tourist site and backpackers accommodation. A cost-effective and historic place to stay when in Napier.