When we went to Rotorua, New Zealand, we were able to finish our itinerary fast to the point that we had so much additional time to visit other tourist spot in the area. Rotorua is known for its geothermal activities, mud pools and spa, natural spring and other water activities. We were so tempted to do the Polynesian Spa for some therapeutic thermal bath but it was expensive so we just visited Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland is a thermal park that features different geothermal elements coming from several volcanic activities from thousands years ago. Wai-O-Tapu has one of the most colorful, unique, and extensive geothermal formations versus other thermal parks that's why we chose this over the others.
The entrance to the park costs NZD 32.5 per adult (this is 2017 price) and it includes access to the Thermal Park and Lady Knox Geyser show which is a spring that "erupts" like a volcano with steam. The Geyser erupts everyday around 10:15 to 10:30 am and the eruption can reach up to 20m in height for about an hour long. Unfortunately, we were not able to see this show because we went to the park late afternoon already.
It rained that day so my photos does not do justice when you see the geothermal spots in person. The rain made everything look dirty and muddy. Too bad. I personally did not enjoy going around the park.
This is the famous Champagne Pool and the only decent photo I got because the weather was not cooperating at that time. Its name came from the abundance of carbon dioxide which is the content of a champagne. CAUTION! This Champagne Pool is very very hot! It can reach up to 260C and can cook you alive! It was actually very hard to capture this photo up close too because of the steam and pungent smell from sulphur.
The entire park for me is not recommended for young children and babies. If you're traveling with them and plan to go here, leave the little ones because although the park is well maintained, has signs and precautions all over the place, they might run into the thermal formations or touch and taste the acidic pools. They may also inhale the pungent smell of sulfur which may not be advisable for young ones. You may check out the health and safety guidelines of the park here.
Personally, I wouldn't recommend Wai-O-Tapu as part of the must visit places in Rotorua just because it's not my interest. But, to be fair, I do know that this place is really unique because you don't see this everyday (or at least in other countries) and this is one of NZ's treasures. If you have spare time and would rather relax AND still "experience" the natural springs and muds of Rotorua then I suggest you try the Polynesian Spa instead. Research first as there are numerous SPA packages and bring your swimsuit with you in case you want to dip in the natural spring.
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