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If your perfect day involves splashing around in warm, comforting mineral waters, a trip to the Otumuheke Stream of Spa Thermal Park, New Zealand, is in order. This spot has everything you need for a good time: historical significance, lush landscapes, and waters with varying temperatures to suit your needs. Oh, and it’s all free.

Mineral Hot Springs

Aerial view of people soaking in the natural springs of Otumuheke Stream in New Zealand
Overlooking Otumuheke Stream at Spa Thermal Park, Taupo, NZ. Photo by: Taituarā — Local Government Professionals Aotearoa

The Otumuheke Stream is a gorgeous, piping-hot stream that gently flows into the Waikato River, known as New Zealand’s longest river. The closest you get to the meeting spot of the stream and the river, the cooler the waters will be. Plan your bathing spot accordingly.

When visiting Otumuheke Stream, you have several soaking spots to sit back and relax. Many people prefer sitting underneath the cascading waterfalls, feeling the waters gently massaging their backs and necks. Others will love the all-natural rock pools surrounded by deep green landscapes and breathtaking sights of the Waikato River.

Regardless of where you plan to indulge in the hot spring stream, you can rest assured of a refreshing, relaxing, and once-in-a-lifetime experience – and it’s entirely free.

The Otumuheke Stream has long been a historical bathing spot of the Māori. The local iwi (Māori tribes) recently partnered with the Taupō District Council to redevelop the area. Now, it has everything you need to enjoy your stay, including changing rooms, toilets, lounging areas, and informational storyboards. There is also a convenient coffee kiosk.

Getting There

The Otumuheke Stream may be in the middle of nature, but it’s not too complicated to find. In all, it’s about 25 minutes out from the Taupō town center.

Here’s how to find it:

  • Pass the Taupo Bungy and Cliffhanger
  • Turn left at County Avenue
  • Enter Spa Thermal Park
  • Continue until you reach the car park
  • Follow the river until reaching a bridge
  • The Otumuheke Stream is beneath and around the bridge

Details

Address: County Avenue, Spa Thermal Park, Taupō Town, New Zealand

Phone: +64 7 376 0027

Season: Year-round

Website: lovetaupo.com/en/scenic-attractions/spa-thermal-park