This enchanting park is named after the chief surveyor for the province of Otago, John Turnbull Thomson, born 1821 in Glorum, Northumberland, England. Immigrating to New Zealand in 1857, John Turnbull Thomson was employed by Captain William Cargill, the Superintendent of Otago province, to explore and survey the province. The interior of Otago was largely unknown at the time, and Thomson is credited for the opening up of inland Otago and the Maniototo for settlement.

The planting and design of this park represents the rugged tussock country Thomson would have been exposed to during his surveying work throughout the Maniototo. The mounds depict the surrounding mountain ranges with a statue of Thomson and his equipment at its centre.

From the park, do take the opportunity to view some of the delightful Art Deco styled buildings around the township.