Hamilton Lake Exhibition

Over the decades the natural lake and its grounds have seen many changes. 

The Maaori name Rotoroa means ‘long lake’ and it was once surrounded by lush trees and native plants. After 1864, military settlers in Kirikiriroa/Hamilton started to clear the trees so the area could be used for recreation.  With the western side of the lake in swamp and the native fauna gone, it became muddy, bleak and not very inviting. In 1886 the lake and western surrounds came under the control of the Hamilton Domain Board and trees were planted, and paths made. By the 1890s people enjoyed swimming and picnicking at the lake and brass bands played concerts there.

In the 1950s there was a proposal to turn the swamp around the lake into a rubbish fill, but the residents objected and formed a ‘Lake Society’. Despite a continuing battle to keep the water free of aquatic weeds, many improvements were made by Hamilton City Council over the next few decades. Restrooms, playgrounds, and wooden walkways were made and in 2004 a walkway, allowing people to walk right around the lake was opened.

Head on up to Level 3 of Central Library to learn more about our lake!

Lake Rotora in the 1800s. HCL_02002, Hamilton City Libraries

An aerial view of the lake. Waikato Hospital is at the centre. 1976. HCL_14019, Hamilton City Libraries

A yacht with the water reservoir behind the woodland walk. c. 1940s. HCL_08944, Hamilton City Libraries

Lake house in 1883. HCL_02874, Hamilton City Libraries

 

A view across the lake from the domain. On the left is a boating jetty, Rotoroa Drive is in the foreground. Mount Pirongia is just visible in the background. c. 1939. HCL_03849, Hamilton City Libraries

Lakeside Drive with daffodils in full bloom c.1940. HCL_03863, Hamilton City Libraries

Frank T. Innes speaking at the opening of Innes Common, 1960. HCL_08252, Hamilton City Libraries

Yachting on Lake Rotoroa, 1963. HCL_04493, Hamilton City Libraries

Tree Planting at Hamilton Lake. 1888. HCL_00486, Hamilton City Libraries

Children play on the see-saws at the playground, 1959. HCL_04505, Hamilton City Libraries

Two children play in the concrete igloo, 1959. HCL_04509, Hamilton City Libraries

The popular water slide at the Lake. c.1970. HCL_M00726.33, Hamilton City Libraries

In 1955 a large slide was placed near the entrance to the Lake Domain at Ruakiwi Road. It was removed in 2002 due to wear and tear. c. 1960. HCL_04702, Hamilton City Libraries