Alive with geothermal activity, the Kuirau Park is the most unique public park you are likely to see. As the only geothermal public park in New Zealand, a day spent here is guaranteed to be like no other. Adorned with hot springs, mud craters and beautiful gardens, this is a great place to leave your troubles behind and unwind. Not forgetting, head down to the park on a Saturday morning where a weekly flea market is held. Home to lots of local foods, jewellery, clothing and fresh produce, be sure to head down for an fulfilling day.

Perhaps the biggest draw of the park are the thermal foot baths, perfect for a foot soak that can challenge any man-made spa. According to local folklore, the area started to bubble with geothermal activity because of a woman named Kuiarau. She was bathing in the waters when a dragon, or taniwha, captured her. This made the gods angry, who in turn made the lake boil to destroy the beast, and in honour of the woman, the park got its name. Be awe-struck by the wonders of nature at the Kuirau Park.