Orakei Korako. North Island New Zealand. - Hot Springs on Waymarking.com

Known as the Hidden Valley, the geothermal area of Orakei Korako is possibly the best thermal area left in New Zealand and one of the finest in the world.

Situated 25 minutes north of Taupo, visitors cross the Waikato River by a boat ride and then wander along paths through a valley of unbelievable colour, of silica terraces and bubbling hot springs, gushing geysers, and an extremely rare geothermal cave preserved by its isolation from the outside world. At present, there are up to 23 active natural geysers that play freely throughout the area.

There is a vast number of boiling hot springs to view as well as mud pools and extensive bush walks through areas of native flora and fauna. Hot Water algae can be found growing in temperatures of 60°C. Possibly the highlight for most on the walk is the thermal Ruatapu Cave (sacred hole) extending some 120 feet down to a hot pool at the bottom named Waiwhakaata, which means "pool of mirrors". This cave is one of only two geothermal caves known to exist in the world.

NOTE:To the south, high atop a cliff above Lake Ohakuri, are three further geysers, Kurapai, Ellan Vannin and Benedix Washer Geysers, in an area not accessible to the public because it is too dangerous. Temperatures of 100 degrees Celsius have been recorded here just 100 to 150 mm below the ground.

The Orakei Korako hot springs are all natural, hot undeveloped and dangerous areas, there is no bathing possible anywhere. Viewing is accessed from defined paths, lookout platforms and boardwalks.

There is an admission price to visit the natural thermal area:
Adults: $36.00
Children (16 & under): $15.00
Families (2 adults & 2 or more children 16 & under): $92.00
Under 6's are free
Price includes ferry trip to and from the attraction, entrance to valley and cave. The ferry runs on demand from 8.00am with last trips to the valley at 4.00pm (Non Daylight saving) 4.30pm (daylight saving). Bookings are not required.

Parking at Tourist Office and Cafe: S 38° 28.430 E 176° 08.585

Temperature (F): 140 degree Fahrenheit Temperature (C): 60 degree Celsius Type: Primitive Cost?: Use Fee Open to the Public?: yes Clothing Optional?: no Other Amenities: This is a natural thermal area of hot springs, geysers and mud pools, with hot acidic water, there is NO bathing possible in these hot springs. Shop and cafe at entrance. Canoe hire.

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Recent Visits/Logs:

Date Logged Log User Rating   01/04/2018 bucketeer visited it 01/04/2018 bucketeer visited it 11/16/2010 Punga and Paua visited it

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