Otumuheke Stream (Spa Park Hot Pools) — Attraction in North Island

Best visit during off peak times early in the morning or late evening when tourist numbers are lower. 10 min gentle sloping walk from the carpark. Unsuitable for people who have limited mobility. This is an actual pure natural hot spring into the river so DO NOT SUBMERGE your ears or heads underwater because of dangerous meningitis risk! Even though there are signs everywhere people are very unaware of the risk. I saw both children & adults swimming underwater. Lots of sharp submerged rocks close to the waterfalls and water visibility limited when crowded. Strong currents out into the river. No lifeguards. Still a great destination to visit and...

How could I give a beautiful natural phenomenon such as this one anything but 5 stars?! There is lovely pebbly-sand underfoot that feels amazing (so would not recommend shoes) and stunning views and it was free! Now if this is your first time at a natural thermal spring, don't expect a hot tub. In order to really note how warm the water is, I recommend to start out in the river next to the stream where the water is almost glacially cold. Then, slowly work your way up. Here you can climb up the falls (easily) all the way to the bridge and notice how the water gets warmer the closer you get to the...

It's a lovely setting on the edge of the mighty Waikato river and you are able to sit in hot pools and look out over the river. Toilets and a changing room available too. Coffee available in the summer hols.... I'm adding to my original review. Due to 3 new Geothermal power stations in Taupo it has changed the hot stream temp to Luke warm, so it's not a hot soak as you may have expected now.. Sorry to all you visitors for that. But SPA park has the best disc golf course in NZ. Give it a go it's real fun for everyone, little kids to old fullas &...