22 Things To Do In New Zealand – No. 20 “Wai-O-Tapu”

Roughly translated from Maori, Wai 0 Tapu means the “sacred, or protected, waters”. Located just 20 minutes south of Rotorua, one of New Zealand’s most famed tourist cities, this magnificent geothermal park is an absolute must see. Walking tracks ranging from 30 to over 75 minutes provide a wonderful scenic experience that will stay in your memory for a lifetime.

If you are someone who is excited by the sight of spurting boiling hot water, head to see Lady Knox, a geyser of both scientific and historical interest. This geyser provides a spectacle, bursting hot water from its white, conical mound of silica at precisely 10:15am daily.

The spectacular Champagne Pool is a magnificent example of the vibrant colours caused by mineral and silicate interference. CO₂ rises from the deep spring, while heavy metal sulphides form a brilliant orange ring from precipitation at the edges. The pool spills over a beautiful waterfall and trickles over the surface of Primrose Terrace towards Bridal Veil Falls.