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The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Wellington Provincial District]
Private Gardens
Private Gardens.
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View In Karori Pleasure Gardens.
McNab's Gardens have been an institution for a quarter-of-a-century, and an exceedingly popular place of public resort. They were laid out originally for a gentleman's country seat, and neither trouble nor expense was spared in the endeavour to make them the moat complete in the neighbourhood. They are situate at the Lower Hutt, about a mile from the railway station, on the road to Lowry Bay and Wainui-o-mata. The train farea are two shillings first class, and sixteenpence second elasa; but on occasions of Sunday school and other largepicnics, considerable reductions are made. At the gardens all conveniences are provided for cricket, tennis, rounders, bowling, and other games, while monkeys, squirrels, birds, etc., afford endless amusement for children of all ages. Quite recently most extensive alterations have been made to the house, to cope with the growing demand for permanent and temporary quarters in these beautiful gardens. As will be seen in the accompanying illustration, a number of nikau palms and other native trees have been preserved to increase-the variety, and thus add attractiveness to the acclimatised and cultivated charms of the pKce. McNab's Gardens are well sheltered, and there are several hot-houses for flowers and fruits which do not grow to perfection in the open air.
The Karori Pleasure grounds are the property of Mr. W. H. Young, and here, too, is accommodation for both visitors and permanent boarders. The gardens have a beauty all their own, and have been wonderfully improved and popularised during the last three or four years. They are within easy walking distance of the City, though delicate ladies and gentlemen who are not fond of climbing hills should patronise the coach, at a cost of ninepence each way. The road is picturesque, and attains a considerable altitude. Mr. Young's gardens occupy a delightful nook some five hundred yards from the road, though of course driving parties may take their vehicles all the way. The grounds are fairly extensive, and include a really charming variety. There are tennis and other lawns, goldfish ponds, and a pretty little lake provided with a boat. There is abundant shade, and many other attractions are provided. The flowers and shrubs at the Karori Pleasure Grounds are very beautiful, and as at McNab's, all kinds of refreshments may be had.
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Cambridge Terrace.
Mr. Higgenbotham's Kilbirnie Tea Gardens overlook Evans Bay, and though much newer than the others mentioned, a very enjoyable holiday may be spent there. Almost every weeksees some improvement, and the convenience of tram communication is much appreciated. The distance from the New-town terminus is about four hundred yards.
The Roseneath Gardens in Oriental Bay are the property of Mr. Wilkinson. Admission is free, and fruit and flowers are obtainable at moderate rates. Mr. Wilkinson's grapes and hot-house roses find much favour.