Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
Rotorua
At a glance
Discover one of New Zealand’s most colourful geothermal attractions at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, located around 30km south of Rotorua on the route between Rotorua and Taupō.
Thousands of years in the making, Wai-O-Tapu is a spectacular showcase of Rotorua’s unique geothermal landscape. Explore the park at your own pace and experience steaming ground, volcanic craters, bubbling mud, colourful mineral pools and striking geothermal formations unlike anywhere else.
A highlight is the world-famous Champagne Pool, known for its vivid orange edge and constantly steaming surface. Throughout the geothermal park, naturally occurring minerals create an incredible range of colours, making Wai-O-Tapu one of the most distinctive natural attractions in the Rotorua region.
Visitors can also experience the Lady Knox Geyser, presented daily at 10.15am, where the geyser can reach heights of 10-20 metres.
Located within New Zealand’s Taupō Volcanic Zone, Wai-O-Tapu is an easy day-trip attraction from both Rotorua and Taupō and a must-see for visitors wanting to experience New Zealand’s geothermal landscape.
The Wai-O-Tapu Visitor Centre includes a café, gift shop, toilets, parking and indoor and outdoor seating, making it easy to relax before or after exploring the geothermal park.