Kawakawa Town

　　   Kawakawa is a small town located in the Northland Region, known as the "train station town" because the Bay of Islands Railway passes through here. The town is famous for its public toilets, which have attracted countless visitors. It’s the first time one hears of a town gaining fame for its toilets — this particular public toilet is a masterpiece by Austrian artist and architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

　　   Friedensreich Hundertwasser lived in the Bay of Islands from 1975 to 2000. At that time, the most pressing issue in the town was the state of its toilets. As Kawakawa lies along New Zealand State Highway 1, many tourists heading to the Bay of Islands passed through the town, leading to overcrowded and unappealing facilities. The toilet designed by Hundertwasser was built in 1997. Its exterior resembles a temple, featuring many brightly colored tiles, linear columns adorned with creative patterns, windows made from bottles, and a rooftop covered with plants, reflecting an environmentally friendly design philosophy.

　　   So far, not many people come here just to use the toilet — only about 20% of visitors do. Most come in long queues just to see the toilet, and they visit both the men's and women's restrooms. It’s expected to boost the town’s economy.

　　   Kawakawa Must-visit reason: The most unique town famous for its toilets Continent: Oceania Country/Region: New Zealand Province/State: Northland Region