Fiji's historical Thurston Gardens will go through restoration work to bring it back to what it once was, a place where family and friends can go to relax, have a picnic and enjoy the evergreen atmosphere.

Suva City Lord Mayor Ratu Peni Volavola said work on the Gardens is in progress as the Prime Minister's office has given the much needed financial assistance for the upgrade.

Volavola said $50,000 has been provided by the PM's office to address drainage problems, the provision of good fencing and the carrying out of other cleaning work.

Opened in 1913 and once known as the Botanical Gardens, the Thurston Gardens will once again be a tourist attraction with a pleasant environment.