Discover the new Camellia Loop Walk at Victoria Esplanade
Published on 23 August 2024
Say goodbye to the old, worn-out pathway around Victoria Esplanade’s Rose Garden – it’s been given a fresh new look! The recently revamped Camellia Loop Walk is now wider, dryer, smoother, and fully accessible for everyone.
This enhancement was part of the Victoria Esplanade Masterplan upgrades, inspired by the Manawatū branch of the New Zealand Camellia Society's advocacy and a focus on improving accessibility. The result? A beautiful pathway that’s ready for everyone to enjoy.
Kathy Dever-Tod, Manager of Parks and Reserves, says she’s proud to see it all come to life.
“It’s wonderful to know that people of all abilities can now enjoy this beautiful space and the incredible camellias it showcases. The new concrete pathway is perfect for a leisurely stroll, with enough room for two to walk side by side—ideal for holding hands and soaking in the vibrant camellias. Because who doesn't love a romantic walk among the flowers?”
Replacing the old narrow, unsealed path that often flooded in winter, the Camellia Loop Walk now offers a pleasant and reliable route. The camellia collection, boasting over 1,100 specimens from more than 300 named cultivars, is among the best in the country. New information boards and signposts have also been installed, allowing visitors to appreciate and identify individual camellia specimens.
The complementary blooming seasons of the roses, magnolias, and camellias ensure a stunning display of flowers all year-round. The new pathway is already attracting more visitors, including attendees of the upcoming National Camellia Show and Convention, which will be held in Palmerston North this week.
The show will take place at The Distinction Hotel and Conference Centre, 175 Cuba Street, and will be open to the public from 12pm to 4.30pm on Saturday, 24 August. Entry is by donation.
So, why not head down to Victoria Esplanade and enjoy a peaceful walk on the newly improved Camellia Loop Walk? It’s the perfect spot to unwind, connect, and enjoy the beauty of nature.