In 1890, the Palmerston North Reserves Act resulted in 39 acres along the bank of the Manawatu River set aside for the development of a park. The first development occurred in 1897 when a metal path was formed at the Fitzherbert Ave end. The whole area was named the “Victoria Esplanade” to celebrate Queen Victoria’s 60th jubilee. Shown here are some of the lovely intersecting paths and the manicured lawns.