Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

Well known as New Zealand ’s most colourful and diverse geothermal area and thousands of years in the making, this stunning volcanic area is nestled within a natural bush setting walks through which take between 30 and 75 minutes. With safety in mind, well identified tracks have been established to blend in with the environment and maximise the viewing of natural features. The range of unique geothermal activity is extensive and includes huge volcanic craters formed by the ground collapsing over the last 700 years, steaming ground, sinter terrace formations, coloured hot and cold water springs of which the Champagne Pool and Devil’s Bath have to be seen to be believed. Throughout the reserve there are a number of lookout points which provide an elevated perspective of the environment. Easily understood information about volcanic activity, fauna and flora within the reserve compliments the comprehensive coloured guide map which is provided to each visitor. A short drive from the Visitor Centre is the Lady Knox Geyser the eruption of which is introduced by an informed guide daily at 10.15am . A little further on is what has simply become known as the “Mud Pool” where there is always activity associated with bubbling mud. The Visitor Centre has recently been completely upgraded and incorporates a well stocked souvenir area catering for all ages while the Geyser Café provides an excellent range of food and beverage. The associated Sky Deck provides a covered area of additional café seating with a view into the steaming activity of the main park and the Wai-O-Tapu stream. Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland offers the visitor a truly memorable experience