New Zealand Escapes: Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland

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For our last day during our trip to Rotorua, we decided to see Wai-o-Tapu whimsically named the Waiotapu Thermal Wonderland, a stunning geothermal area.

Our first stop was the Lady Knox Geyser. This artificial catalyzed geyser explodes every day at 10:15 A.M. It erupts at the same time every day because the eruption isn't a natural phenomenon but is initiated with at least a handful of washing powder.

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There are 3 walks (35 mins, 45mins and 75mins) you can take depending on the time you have to see the different pools. Naturally, we went for the longest one.

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The mud pools are listed on Wai-O-Tapu's website, but you can see them free of charge. Look for the Mud Pool signs off Waiotapu Loop Road and take a short drive to the car park and viewing area. The mud is active here, so it's worth the detour.

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Have you been to Wai O'Tapu? How was your visit? Let me know.