Step into a world of relaxation

Choose to bathe in our main pool complex, with 6 bathing options, or book a private pool experience.

Pure geothermal water flows continuously through the pools, from the source at Te Manaroa Spring.

Our pools are emptied and cleaned every evening.

We are open 7 days a week from 10:30am - 8pm. Our first pool begins to drain at 7:15pm

Private Geothermal Hot Pools

Indulge yourself with a secluded soak, exactly as you want it, in our private hot pools. 

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Private Pools
Public Geothermal Hot Pools

Immerse yourself in pure geothermal hot pools and spectacular natural surroundings.

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Hot Pools
The journey of our water

Our water is sourced from Te Manaroa Spring, the largest single source of boiling water in New Zealand. We divert some of the boiling water from the spring, and run it through a cooling system. Then it flows continuously down the cascades into the pools. 

We do not treat or filter the water, so it's full of minerals as nature intended. We don't recycle water back into the pools. It continues its journey out through the valley, and back into the stream. 

Our eco-trail walk takes you to Te Manaroa Spring, where you can explore the journey of our water. 

Explore the Eco Trail
Keeping you safe

We care about your enjoyment and safety while you enjoy this special place and ask that you help us look after yourselves, and each other and respect the environment when you visit.

The geothermal spring water used in the pools contains naturally occurring organisms. Given the nature of this water, we recommend that you keep your head above water when swimming.

Soaking Guidelines

Plan your visit

We’re off the beaten track. When you get here you’ll see why it’s worth the short drive.

Opening Hours

We are open daily from 10.30am to 8pm. Last entry is at 7pm as we start to drain pools at 7.15pm.

Location

Waikite Valley Hot Pools
648 Waikite Valley Road, Waikite Valley 3077

GPS co-ordinates:
Latitude -38.327164, Longitude 176.302929

Drive Time

Waikite Valley Hot Pools are just a 30-minute drive from Rotorua and 45 minutes from Taupo.

From Rotorua, travel south towards Taupo on SH5 (the same route as Te Pā Tū, Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland). Turn right onto Waikite Valley Road (opposite the Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland turn-off) and follow the Waikite signs for 6km.

Perfect thermal pools off the beaten track.

Wanna soak in a real NZ thermal pool and not pay a fortune?

We found Waikite thermal pools by accident and, though there are adequate public pools, opted for a private pool.

Perfect for an escape and a relax without overinflated Rotorua prices, Waikite had lovely, friendly staff and, though off the beaten track, was well worth it.

Rob S May 2023

Worth the drive from Rotorua

Such a great place to visit, well worth the 30min drive from Rotorua.

A range of pools to soak in and a large enough area for the kids to splash about without bothering those in the hottest pools. Had food there too, Nachos were spot on and the hot chip were good.

Will be getting an annual ticket so we can come back every month.

Les Jul 2023

Relaxing couple of hours.

We had a great time relaxing in the beautiful surroundings, soaking up the natural waters of splendid temperatures of 36°...Wonderful!

The young staff were so very helpful and pleasant.

Pauline O Sep 2023

A relaxing day

Wonderful relaxing quiet day. With 6 pools to choose from which were surrounded by beautiful plants it was a lovely day. The food was good and plenty of cool water to drink to keep hydrated.

Sandra W Nov 2023

A favorite!

About 28 km from Rotorua, mostly up a paved rural road off the highway from Rotorua to Taupo. A series of pools, getting warmer as you proceed uphill towards the source of the hot spring. The water has to be cooled because it comes out of the ground at 99C. The pools are nicely built and the views are great. After you've soaked, walk the eco trail and read the informative panels along the path.

Gang Warily Jan 2024
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