New Zealand - Waiwera, Auckland - View of Waiwera, Auckland, taken looking towards Mahurangi Island, possibly in the 1880s. The Hot Springs Hotel is visible in the foreground - 1880s/19th Century - Photographer, possibly F W Williams - Collection of Hawke's Bay Museums Trust, Ruawharo T??-??-rangi, 332 Waiwera - Waiwera is a small town in the north of the Auckland Region in New Zealand. The name is of Maori origin and means "Hot Water" (Wai = Water and Wera = Hot).[1] Its main claim to fame are the hot water springs which were well known in pre-European times and reputedly visited by Maori from as far away as Thames. The first European settler to promote the springs was Robert Graham who established a health resort in 1848. During the late 19th century there was a regular steam ferry service from Auckland. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waiwera) Waiwera Hot Pools - Waiwera Hot Pools (now branded as Waiwera Infinity Thermal Spa Resort) is a large thermal spa situated in Waiwera, just north of Auckland, New Zealand. The park is New Zealand's largest water park. The complex claims 350,000 visitors per year and consists of 26 pools plus various slides. - The presence of hot springs bubbling up through the sands of Waiwera Beach was known to Maori in pre-European times, and the name Waiwera means 'hot water'. Commercialisation commenced in 1875 when Scottish-born entrepreneur Robert Graham built bathing facilities at the beach and a hotel nearby. - Water activities includes: hydroslides such as Speed slide, Twister and Kids Chute; Lazy River; Movie pool showing 3 movies a day; Aquacise fitness classes and Swimming school. - Due to wear and deterioration of the welds in the stainless steel tube and in interest of public safety, the famous Blackhole slide has been closed until further notice. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waiwera_Hot_Pools) Image source: Collection of Hawke's Bay Museums Trust, Ruawharo T??-??-rangi, 332 https://collection.mtghawkesbay.com/objects/78169 #waiwera