Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Area

The Wai-O-Tapu thermal area is part of a Scenic Reserve administered by the Department of Conservation and has the largest area of surface thermal activity of any hydrothermal system in the Taupo Volcanic Zone. This area is covered with collapsed craters, cold and boiling pools of mud, water and steaming fumaroles. The public area is only part of it and is located on the edge of the largest volcanic caldera within the active Taupo Volcanic Zone. Wai-O-Tapu is considered to be New Zealands most colorful and diverse geothermal sightseeing attraction. You are introduced to a uniquely different natural landscape, one of the most extensive geothermal systems in New Zealand. Clearly defined walking paths provide the visitor with the opportunity to enjoy the diversity of this area through a series of different walks taking from 30 to 75 minutes.

This spring is the largest in the district, being 65 meters in diamerter adn 62 meters deep. Its surface temperature is 165 degrees fahrenheit. The pool was formed 700 years ago by a hydrothermal eruption. Minerals contained in the water are gold, silver, mercury, sulphur, arsenic, thallium, antimony and are presently depositing in the surrounding sinter ledge.

The boardwalk sits on the very edge of the firmer ground associated with the terraces. It rests on specially treated timber and is secured by stainless steel pins.

The color is the result of excess water from the Champagne Pool mixing with sulphur and ferrous salts.

These are up to 20 meters deep and contain hot water springs. Most have extensive sulphur deposits formed by escaping vapours meeting with our atmosphere.

Native Bush Walk among a stand of giant Kanuka

Wai-O-Tapu Geyser - Alum Cliffs

Lake Ngakoro at trails end

Overflowing water from the Champagne Pool with minerals exposed as different colors.

A series of mud pools whose water levels fluctuate with the amount of rainfall. The color is due to small amounts of graphite and crude oil brought to the surface by the water forcing its way up.

The Champagne Pool from a distance

Wai-O-Tapu is south of Rotorua