10 Things to Do in Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Rotorua New Zealand
Located in the heart of the North Island of New Zealand, Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a geothermal wonderland of bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and rainbow-colored terraces. The area is home to some of the most unique and beautiful thermal attractions in the world, making it a must-see destination for any traveler. Here are 10 of the best things to do in Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, Rotorua New Zealand.
1. Explore the Lady Knox Geyser
One of the most popular attractions in Wai-O-Tapu is the Lady Knox Geyser. This geyser erupts every day at 10:15am, shooting a stream of hot water up to 20 meters into the air. Watching the geyser erupt is an incredible experience and a must-do activity for any visitor to the area.
2. Take a Dip in the Hot Springs
Wai-O-Tapu is home to several hot springs, which are perfect for soaking in and enjoying the natural warmth of the thermal waters. The hot springs are also great for swimming and relaxing after a long day of exploring the area.
3. Visit the Champagne Pool
The Champagne Pool is one of the most popular attractions in Wai-O-Tapu. This hot spring is filled with a shimmering blue-green water that is heated to a toasty 37 degrees Celsius. Visitors can take a dip in the pool or just admire the stunning colors and bubbling hot springs.
4. Hike the Wai-O-Tapu Tracks
Wai-O-Tapu is home to several hiking trails that offer stunning views of the area’s thermal attractions. One of the most popular trails is the Wai-O-Tapu Track, which takes visitors through the thermal valley and past several of the area’s most famous attractions.
5. Take a Tour of the Mud Pools
Wai-O-Tapu is home to several mud pools, which are perfect for exploring and learning about the area’s geothermal features. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mud pools to learn about their formation and the science behind them.
6. Visit the Artist’s Palette
The Artist’s Palette is one of the most unique attractions in Wai-O-Tapu. This colorful terrace is made up of dozens of different colored minerals and is an incredible sight to behold. Visitors can take a tour of the terrace to learn about the formation and history of the area.
7. Explore the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Valley
The Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Valley is home to some of the most incredible geothermal features in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour of the valley to explore the area’s bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and rainbow-colored terraces.
8. Visit the Wai-O-Tapu Museum
The Wai-O-Tapu Museum is a great place to learn about the area’s history and geothermal features. The museum houses a variety of exhibits and displays that provide visitors with an in-depth look at the area’s natural history.
9. Take a Trip on the Wai-O-Tapu River
The Wai-O-Tapu River is a great way to explore the area’s thermal attractions from a different perspective. Visitors can take a boat tour of the river and admire the area’s bubbling mud pools, steaming hot springs, and colorful terraces.
10. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Rotorua is home to some of the best food in New Zealand. Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, such as Hangi, a traditional Maori dish cooked in an underground oven, or the famous Maori bread, which is made from ground corn and cooked in a hot spring.