Two free scooters – which will help less-mobile visitors explore the garden’s 18 plant collections – were unveiled by Wollongong City Council on Wednesday, ahead of the Easter break.

Wollongong lord mayor Gordon Bradbery gave the mode of transport the tick of approval after taking one of the scooters for a spin.

“The spin was enjoyable,” Cr Bradbery said. 

“It’s a great way to see the garden … you just sit there and enjoy.”

The scooters, which form part of the council’s Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2016-2020, have been funded by the Friends of the Botanic Garden.

“We want to make the gardens more accessible, especially for those with mobility impediments,” Cr Bradbery said. 

“So, the idea of the scooters is a great one.”

More than half a million people visit the garden annually, with council working to provide greater access to every part of the garden.

Acting curator James Beattie said a new entry was planned for the Robsons Road side of the Keiraville site, with new pathways also in the pipeline.

The scooters complement an existing electronic buggy, which is used for 45-minute guided tours between 10am and noon every Wednesday. 

To hire a scooter, call the the garden’s administration centre on 4227 7667.

The Wollongong Botanic Gardens is closed on Good Friday, but open from 7am to 5pm every other day of the Easter long weekend.