Hot pools and geothermal

New Zealand sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, so steaming ground, geysers and natural hot pools are part of the landscape, especially across the central North Island.

Where to go

• Rotorua Geysers, mud pools and spa pools.
• Wai-O-Tapu Colourful pools and the Lady Knox Geyser.
• Taupō Free natural hot streams and family pools.
• Hanmer Springs A big alpine spa in Canterbury.
• Hot Water Beach Dig your own pool in the sand at low tide in the Coromandel.

Good to know

Stay on marked tracks in geothermal areas: crusts can be thin and water is boiling. In natural hot pools, keep your head above water.