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Sunken Gardens

Formed in the 1960s, the Sunken Garden has been described as the Parade's 'hidden treasure' because, as it sits below the street level and offers a sense of serenity and separation from its urban surrounds.

In April 1967 a start was made on excavating the 30,000 cubic yard hole for the Sunken Gardens. Many interesting finds were made in the excavated earthquake rubble with reminders of long gone cafes, hotels and manufacturers, along with various objects and fittings.

The Gardens were opened in 1969 by Sir Lew Harris, who gave a generous donation in the form of the floating 'bio-morphic sculpture' in the pool.

You can find the Sunken Garden on Marine Parade, just along from the i-SITE information centre. There is no sign, but you can't miss it, situated between the road and the beach.