20 Best Hot Springs in Rotorua You Must Dip In!

Rotorua Hot Springs

Rotorua includes Kerosene Creek, Wairua Stream, Wai-o-Tapu, Kuirau Park, Waterfall Spout Bath Wai-o-Tapu, Polynesian Spa, Hell's Gate, Manupirua Hot Springs, Maungataniwha Hot Springs and many more.

A visit to the best hot springs in Rotorua introduces you to the world of ethereal beauty. The North Island areas of New Zealand are abundant in geothermal wonders with bubbling mud pools, enormous geysers and volcanic landscapes that are easily accessible to the visitors and free of cost. From relaxing in a hot water pool to participating in exhilarating outdoor activities there are abundant options to keep yourself engaged throughout your New Zealand tour.

The natural hot springs in Rotorua promise you a relaxing dip and cure ailments such as arthritis, muscle fatigue, skin problems and help relieve stress. If you are a nature lover and looking for a respite visit the Wairua Stream where you can go for a friendly hike along a forest trail. For a lavish geothermal spa experience the Waikite Valley Thermal Pools is highly recommended. If you are on an all-friends’ trip to Rotorua the Awakeri Hot Springs must be on your bucket list for a truly rustic experience.

Here is the list of best hot springs in Rotorua:

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Kerosene Creek

Kerosene Creek lists first among that of the best hot springs in Rotorua where you can immerse in the exotic flora of Whakarewarewa and take a thermal dip in the refreshing waters of the pool. For those who want to take a free bath in a natural hot spring, this is a must visit destination.

Located by the side of a local road which is just 35 minutes’ drive south of Rotorua, a small, gravelly pathway leads to the creek. The idyllic setting of the pool makes it an ideal spot for photography.

Location: Old Waiotapu Road, Waiotapu 3073, New Zealand

Wairua Stream

The crystal-clear water of Wairua stream is worth taking a boat ride in. The unique feature of this natural hot spring in Rotorua is its temperature which lies just above your body temperature. If you want to experience hiking, take a walk along the 15 Km long arboreal bank of Lake Tarawera which leads to the stream and the Hot Water Beach.

Riding a boat in the lake can be a great way to relax and appreciate the beauty of the woodlands all around. Since the trail is unmarked it is recommended you take a map or activate the GPS to get detailed direction.

Location: Whakarewarewa, Rotorua 3073, New Zealand

Best Time: The best time to visit is in September through November when it is spring and the climate is pleasant and sunny.

Wai-o-Tapu

It is one of the best geothermal attractions in New Zealand where you can get to see unique volcanic traits from all sides of the landscape. It is designated as one among the 20 surreal places of the world for its kaleidoscopic natural setting. Some of the major attractions in this place include Champagne Pool, Steaming Ground, huge volcanic craters, bubbling mud, and expansive vistas.

Location: 201 Waiotapu Loop Road Rd 3, Rotorua 3073 New Zealand

Kuirau Park

Located in the northern end of Rotura is the public park which offers stunning natural hot springs of Rotorua of hissing and steaming geothermal activity. In the earlier times, the lake inside the park was cooler and was named Taokahu.

Legends have that a beautiful woman named Kuirau was bathing in the lake waters when she was dragged by a taniwha (mythical demigod) to his lair under the lake. The incident invited the wrath of the gods and as a result they made the lake waters boil so the demigod would be destroyed forever. From that time onward eruptions occur from time to time making the lake water bubble.

Location: 1371, Pukuatua St, Ranolf Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Best Time: During spring between the months of September and November

Waterfall Spout Bath Wai-o-Tapu

Image Credit : nzhotpools.co.nz/hot-pools

If you want to enjoy a truly rustic experience in your Rotorua trip, head straight to the Waterfall Spout Bath Wai-o-Tapu. This lesser traded attraction amidst stunning bushlands is one of the best hot springs in Rotorua. The stream with knee deep water flows into a cool river which is accessed by tourists on foot to get a scenic view of this beautiful natural phenomenon.

The remote location of the waterfall with its incredible water force is the most spectacular aspect of this natural hot spring in Rotorua.

Location: 201 Waiotapu Loop Road, Rotorua 3073, New Zealand

Best Time: October- April

Waikite Valley Thermal Pools

Nestled in a picturesque valley the Waikite Valley Thermal Pools is one of the best hot springs of Rotorua and a luxurious spa retreat to the visitors. It houses the Te Manaroa Spring which is the largest single source of pure geothermal water in New Zealand. Soak your soul in the relaxing waters of the main pool or indulge in a luxurious private spa in one of the garden pools.

You can take a short walk along a friendly trail to the gorgeous bubbling Te Manaroa spring and unravel the unique topography of this place. The hot pools are open round the year offering you a tranquil hideout to unwind your cares.

Location: 648, Waikite Valley Road, Waikite Valley 3077, New Zealand

Lake Rotowhero

Located in the thermal region of the North Island Lake Rotowhero is famous for its highly eutrophic marine ecology. Gushing steam rises from one of the best hot springs of Rotorua amidst exotic forestland of New Zealand. Swimming in the waters of Lake Rotowhero is not advisable as the pH of the water is quite acidic to harm your skin.

The flora and fauna of the lake being restricted to only a few species show little variation vis-à-vis seasonal changes than other lakes.

Polynesian Spa

The Polynesian Spa fairly boasts of being one of the iconic best hot springs in Rotorua which offers you access to both acidic and alkaline mineral springs for an amazing geothermal wedding experience. The spa retreat is located on the tranquil shores of Lake Rotorua with exotic landscape views.

The hot mineral waters of Polynesian Spa arise from two natural hot springs in Rotorua and supply water to 28 hot water pools. The mildly acidic water of Priest Spring relieves muscle fatigue, aches and pains while the alkaline waters of Rachel Spring will make your skin glow. You will be offered a complete package of healing therapies including messages, facials and body wraps in the spa.

Location: 10000 Hinemoa Street, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Best Time: Morning is the best time to take a spa as you can take long walks on the beach.

Te Rata Bay

Located at the heart of the Rotorua district this place holds something special for the tourists. Steam rising from the edge of the lake into which hot stream water trickles perpetually is really a marvellous sight to behold. The sand on the surface of the Hot Water Beach is heated up by the waters of spring.

This natural hot spring in Rotorua offers you a relaxing session and lets you appreciate a geothermal spectacle in a stunning natural backdrop.

Location: Bay of Plenty 3073, New Zealand

Hell's Gate

Experience the power to heal and rejuvenate your mind and body in app in a unique geothermal experience in hills get mud spa. The mineral water of this natural hot spring in Rotorua has been used by the M?ori community for 800 years. In one hours' guided or self- guided thermal walk you will come across the world-famous sulphur spas, mud baths and cool plunge pools that have been used by the M?oris for centuries.

The soothing climate and picture postcard landscape of the place call for enjoying an unforgettable geothermal experience of your life.

Location: 351 State Highway, 30 Tikitere Rotorua New Zealand

Manupirua Hot Springs

Take a speedboat ride towards this rejuvenating hot spring and discover a calm as well as scenic abode of nature. Soak in the hot pools and enjoy the scenery around you as you visit this all natural location. Isolated away from the city, this hot spring remains less crowded, thus can work as a perfect location for finding solace and scenic beauty.

Among all sevel hot springs of Lake Rotorua, this one remains the cleanest, thus becoming the perfect place to plan a visit.

Blue Baths

The art deco featuring Blue Bath can fairly lay a claim of being one of the most iconic heritage buildings and a plush venue for special events in the city. It holds a history of introducing unisex public bathing for the first time in its inhouse hot pool way back in 1931. Most of the heritage quarters of the building are restored during its refurbishment such as the museum gallery, the Foyer, Tea Room and the Lido Lounge which was once an adult pool.

The main attraction of Blue Bath are the hot soak pools where visitors can enjoy relaxing baths and destress themselves.

Location: Queens Drive, Government Gardens, Rotorua 3201, New Zealand

Waitangi Soda Springs

These geothermal springs are located amidst pristine natural setting near the lakes Rotoehu, Rotoiti and Rotoma in the Bay of Plenty. Historically, these natural hot springs of Rotorua have played an integral part in the lives of the local tribes.

They served as an imperative source of tribal economy, wananga (educational forums), therapeutic use, food and manufacturing of weaving material. The hot waters of Waitangi Soda Springs contain different minerals that give you a relaxing bathing experience and heal ailments like arthritis and muscle joint pain.

Location: 59 Manawahe Road, Lake Rotoma, Rotorua 3074, New Zealand

Maungataniwha Hot Springs

Hidden amidst the outgrowths of Te Urewera National Park is one of the best hot springs of Rotorua. Be prepared for a bewildering experience which starts with hiking through a sloppy pathway through the Wairoa Stream. You can enjoy camping in the site which is allotted beside the pool. There are two pools for public use that are filled with hot water sourced from the adjacent hot spring.

You can indulge in a relaxing dip in this natural hot spring in Rotorua under the stars and enjoy the friendly company of some glow worms and possums in the neighbouring undergrowth.

Location: Makahu Road Kaweka Forest Park, Puketitiri New Zealand

Best Time: August-October and February-April

Rotoma Holiday Park

Located halfway between Rotorua and Whakatane on State Highway 30 is a blissful hideout to while away or enjoy an outdoor picnic in tranquil natural surroundings. The park is nestled in pristine woodlands dotted with crystal lakes alluring tourists for an intimate hideout in a comfortable cabin or in a camp under the canvas.

Just a minutes’ walk from Rotoma Holiday Park is Waitangi Soda Springs-one of the best hot springs in Rotorua and an ideal spot for unwinding your stress.

Location: 8 Manawahe Road, Lake, Rotorua 3074, New Zealand

Rachel Spring Whangapipiro

This natural hot spring in Rotorua of alkaline water was originally known as Whangapipiro or Whangapapiro by the local Arawa tribes. Later it was renamed as Rachel Spring or Rachel’s Pool or Rachel’s Bath. As you get closer to the pool the strong smell of sulphur arousing from the spring waters will clear out your sinuses from the fumes.

There is a surfeit of spa options from soaking in the bush lined hot spring to pampering yourself in a relaxing spa inside the well-appointed complex.

Location: Queens Drive Government Gardens, Rotorua 3010, New Zealand

Lady Knox Geyser

It is the largest mud pool in New Zealand which was developed by the erosion of a large mud volcano in the 1920s. The most striking characteristic which sets this geyser apart from others is its eruption every morning after being induced with a soap. An amphitheatre is set up near the geyser to let the audience witness this spectacular phenomenon.

On a good day the eruption may last longer than an hour and shoot up to even 20 metres.

Location: 201 Waiotapu Loop Road, Rotorua 3073 New Zealand

Te Puia

If there is a true geothermal wonderland in New Zealand it is nowhere else than in Te Puia. With traditional Maori carvers and weavers, bubbling mud pools, best hot springs in Rotorua and pulsating wildlife it is an iconic travel destination for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers.

At the Kiwi Conversation Centre, you can participate in a personal interactive session with live kiwis. On a day trip you can visit the Pohutu Geyser and relax at the Pataka Kai restaurant which overlooks the geothermal moonscape of the region.

Location: Hemo Road, Rotorua Central, New Zealand.

Best Time to visit: mid-October to mid-March and mid-April to mid-September

Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Get to explore the world's youngest geothermal valley and immerse in a plethora of activities in Waimangu Volcanic Valley. The place abounds with stunning landscapes, enormous geysers, exotic biota and awesome volcanic craters that lure tourists across the globe to make a visit.

You can indulge in nature walking along the forest trails or relaxing on a cruise in Lake Rotomahana.

Location: 587 Waimangu Road, Rotorua 3043

Best Time: Winter months (June-August) is the best time to visit.

Awakeri Hot Springs

Let yourself indulge in a secluded holiday in the midst of sprawling forestland, verdant hills, crystal lakes and free flowing rivers at the Awakeri Hot Springs. The property offers you an array of activities and relaxing options that include fishing, private hot spa, hiking, hot showers, games, BBQ and Awakeri Rails which is an exclusive attraction in the package.

If you are a naturalist, take a walk round the White Pine Bush and get to know something about the aboriginals of New Zealand and the history of the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Location: 1363, State Highway 30, Awakeri 3192, New Zealand

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Rotorua Top Attractions

Places To Visit In Rotorua

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Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Home to several geothermal activities, the Wai-O-Tapu is amongst the most peculiar places to visit in Rotorua. Its Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily at 10.15 am with water rushing up to 20 meters high in the air and creates an amazing spectacle.The area is packed with over 20 different volcanic activities like bubbling mud pools, fluorescent green water pools (Devil Baths), bright yellow or orange steaming terraces (Champagne Pool), etc. Each landscape amazes the visitors with a surreal appeal and a sight to behold.Location: 201 Waiotapu Loop Road, Rotorua 3073, New ZealandTimings: Winter: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm Summer: 8:30 am - 6:00 pm Entry Fees:Adult: $32.50Child: $11.00

Wai O Tapu Thermal Wonderland

Te Puia

Another one of the extremely popular Rotorua places to visit, the Te Puia offers a complete package of thrills, entertainment, and food. It houses the famous Pohutu Geyser, the largest geyser in the Southern Hemisphere that gushes water up to 30 meters high in the air lasting for several days to months.Along with geysers, the place also boasts of bubbling mud pools, Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, Kiwi birds, and Pātaka Kai restaurant.Location: Hemo Road, Tihiotonga, Rotorua 3040, New ZealandTimings: Day Pass: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm (Wednesday to Sunday)Geyser By Night: 9:00 pm (Wednesday to Sunday)Entry Fees:Day PassAdult: $39.00Child: $20.00Geyser By NightAdult: $50.00Child: $25.00

Places To Visit In Rotorua