Rotorua Kuirau Park – A Natural Hot Spring Oasis in the City

📍Location/Transportation: Located on the edge of Rotorua city center, it’s about a 5-minute walk from the town center. The park entrance is at the intersection of Pukuatua and Ranolf Streets. Free admission and free parking make it very convenient. 📝Personal Experience (around 250 words): Kuirau Park is a rare "geothermal park turned urban green space." Upon entering, I was immediately captivated by the steam rising from the ground and the bubbling mud pools. The park features numerous bubbling mud pools, steam vents, and geothermal lakes of varying colors, making it feel like stepping into a miniature volcanic landscape. The highlight is the wooden walkway across Kuirau Lake. Looking down, you see the misty lake water, with vibrant colors created by the surrounding plants and algae, giving it an ethereal, dreamlike quality. What impressed me most was the free hot foot bath located next to the children’s playground. You can take off your shoes and soak your feet, feeling the geothermal warmth seep into your body. In that moment, the heat slowly spread from my ankles upward, bringing an unparalleled sense of relaxation. If you visit on weekends, you might catch the farmers' market, where the aroma of fresh produce and snacks contrasts intriguingly with the steamy environment. I particularly enjoy visiting in the late afternoon when the interplay of sunset light and steam creates a soft, mysterious ambiance. Kuirau Park combines geothermal wonders with a comfortable public space, allowing you to experience New Zealand’s unique geothermal charm without spending a dime.