I have a confession….. I have a thing for public toilets!

This all started a number of years ago when I worked for the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment on the Tourism Infrastructure Fund managing investments in public toilets all over New Zealand.

Public loos are way more important than most people realise – they’re basically the quiet, unsexy infrastructure that makes a place function (especially for tourism and the outdoors). The most beautiful parts of New Zealand generally have such a tiny rate paying community that Councils cannot afford to investment in anything other than basics – hence why this fund was set up to support costs to enable tourist infrastructure (although I am not sure it is still in existence).

We are honestly spoiled in New Zealand. From trailheads to beach car parks to city running routes and remote backcountry long-drops – we are definitely well looked after.

It is only when you go for a run on your holiday and discover the nearest toilets are nearly 8km away do you then fully appreciate how important abundant facilities are!

The flushing toilet on Wither Hills, Blenheim is one of my favourites. Whats’s yours?!

Thank you New Zealand!