Thurston Gardens
Central
Thurston Gardens, located in central Suva, Fiji, are the country's premier botanical gardens, originally established as the Suva Botanical Gardens. Named after Sir John Bates Thurston, the fifth Governor of Fiji, the gardens sit on a historically significant site where the original town of Suva was destroyed in 1843. The gardens were developed following recommendations by John Horne, a botanist from Mauritius, in the late 19th century. They feature notable plantings such as avenues of 101 Royal Palms and 39 tree ferns, alongside tropical palms, gingers, and water lilies. The gardens also contain historical structures like the Clock Tower and bandstand, built in memory of Suva's first mayor. The Fiji Museum, housed within a building on the garden grounds since 1955, maintains the gardens today. Despite some wear, Thurston Gardens remains a cherished green space for locals and visitors alike, offering a glimpse into Fiji's botanical heritage and colonial past.
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Tip: Visit Thurston Gardens during daylight hours for the best experience, as the gardens are open to the public and safely enjoyed during the day. Consider combining your visit with the Fiji Museum located within the gardens. While entry to the gardens is generally free, check for any special events or guided tours that may enhance your visit. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and more comfortable conditions for walking.
Interesting facts
- •Thurston Gardens are built on the site of the original Suva town destroyed in 1843 during one of Fiji's bloodiest conflicts.
- •The gardens feature an avenue of 101 Royal Palms and 39 tree ferns planted in 1913.
- •The Clock Tower and bandstand were constructed in 1918 in memory of Suva's first mayor.
- •The Fiji Museum, located within the gardens, was built in 1955 and manages the gardens today.
History
Thurston Gardens are situated on the site of the original Suva town, which was destroyed in 1843 during a violent conflict.
In 1879, Sir John Thurston invited botanist John Horne to advise on establishing a botanical garden.
The gardens were initially named Suva Botanical Gardens but were renamed Thurston Gardens in 1976 to honor Sir John Thurston.
Significant developments include the planting of Royal Palms and tree ferns in 1913 and the construction of the Clock Tower and bandstand in 1918 to commemorate Suva's first mayor.
The Fiji Museum was established within the garden grounds in 1955 and currently oversees maintenance of the gardens.
Place Guide
Royal Palm Avenue1913
A grand avenue planted with 101 Royal Palms, creating a majestic and iconic feature of the gardens, established in 1913.
Tree Fern Avenue1913
An avenue lined with 39 tree ferns, planted in 1913, adding to the gardens' tropical ambiance and botanical diversity.
Clock Tower and Bandstand1918
Constructed in 1918 to honor Suva's first mayor, these structures serve as historical landmarks within the gardens and venues for public events.
Fiji Museum Building1955
The building housing the Fiji Museum was constructed in 1955 within the garden grounds and is responsible for maintaining the gardens today.
Contact
Phone: 331 5944
