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In New Plymouth, on the North Island of New Zealand, there's one pride and joy of the city that you won't want to miss. Pukekura Park could be the most tranquil and idyllic plot of land in the entire city, and is one of the premier botanical gardens you should explore when you take a medical job in New Zealand.
About 128 acres (52 hectares) make up this protected region, which features bush walks, gardens, lakes and even a tea house. Perhaps the most famous site on this garden estate is the Brooklands Zoo and Bowl of Brooklands, an outdoor venue with a large grass amphitheater surrounding the soundstage. You never know when you stop in if you're going to catch a spectacular concert performance or even a light show—from December to February, the park hosts the annual Festival of Lights, when Pukekura transforms into a luminous and glowing wonderland.
Whether you catch something big happening at the park or spend the day crossing over its Japanese-style bridges and resting under shady trees, you're bound to have an unforgettable experience in this peaceful hideaway in Aotearoa.