Established in 1864, these 5.4-hectare gardens are a pleasant collection of fountains, sculptures, greenhouses, a playground, a zoo and some fabulous aviaries. Along with exotic trees, plants and shrubs, and some 160 species of birds which are in residence here - including non-native sulphur-crested cockatoos, which are attractive but damage the local vegetation.  The zoo is surprisingly comprehensive and is also one of the world’s leading centres for the captive breeding of endangered species.

The gardens are divided by Albany Rd, with the plants and aviaries in the area to the east close to Garden Rd, and most of the animals are to the west. The animal displays are mostly primates. The tropical green houses are divided into five sections: bromeliads and orchids, ferns, climbers, carnivorous plants and scented plants.