History of tulips
The tulip was originally a wild flower growing in Central Asia. It was first cultivated by the Turks as early as 1000AD.
The Turkish word for tulip is lale. It is believed that the botanical name tulipa is derived from the Turkish word for turban. Although it is not known if this is reference to the flower's shape or because Turks often wore the flower tucked into their turban.
Tulips were introduced to Western Europe and the Netherlands in the late 16th century. Today tulips are largely associated with Holland. Tulip festivals are well known in Holland and Holland is often called the 'flower shop of the world'.
Settlers introduced flowers to New Zealand and tulips were being advertised for sale as early as 1850. The Christchurch Horticultural Society highlighted tulips at a flower show in 1883.
 |
| Wellington Independent. 5 June 1850. Source: Papers Past. |
Tulips in Rotorua
When Governor-General, Sir Cyril Newall and Lady Newall visited Rotorua in October 1941 Lady Newell was presented a bouquet of tulips by the Mayoress.
Rotorua has always had great displays of tulips blooming around the inner city, Government Gardens, and Kuirau Park.
 |
| Tulips in Kuirau Park. Source: Rotorua Photo News, Oct 24, 1970. |
 |
| Government Gardens opening day of croquet season. Source: Rotorua Photo News, Dec 14 1963 |
Rotorua hosted a Tulip Festival in 2014. The event was hosted annually for another 3 years. The festival saw over 100,000 tulips planted throughout the city and series of public events held.
Below are a selection of photos from the Rotorua Tulip Festival. To see more visit the library to see our September 2020 display.
 |
| Photo: Alison Leigh |
 |
| Photo: Rachael Reid |
 |
| Photo: Rachael Reid |
 |
| Photo: Rachael Reid |
 |
| Photo: Alison Leigh |
This blog was written by Graeme. With thanks to the Rotorua Library Heritage Collections and Archives. Also thank you to Abigail Hartevelt, Alison Leigh, Dave Moulden, Kowhai Epapara, Kathy Nicholls, Rachael Reid (thecuriouskiwi.co.nz), and Trish Brown.
