Putaruru Blue Spring — Attraction in North Island

Blue Spring in Putaruru is a stunning natural attraction known for its incredibly clear, blue water. The spring is part of the Te Waihou Walkway, which offers a scenic and peaceful walk along the river. Here are some highlights:

Breathtaking Scenery: The crystal-clear water of Blue Spring is mesmerizing. You can see every detail of the underwater plants and rocks, making it a photographer's paradise. Well-Maintained Pathways: The walkways are well-kept, with ample parking and bathroom facilities available along the route. Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors often mention the tranquility of the area. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy nature. Accessibility: The walk to the spring is relatively easy, making it suitable for families and people of all ages.

Activities to Enjoy:

Walking and Hiking: The Te Waihou Walkway is a beautiful trail that takes you along the Waihou River to the Blue Spring. It's an easy walk suitable for all ages and fitness levels, with options for shorter or longer walks. Photography: The crystal-clear blue water and lush surroundings make for stunning photographs. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of the spring and the surrounding nature. Picnicking: There are several spots along the walkway where you can sit and enjoy a picnic. It's a great way to relax and take in the serene environment. Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including birds and fish. The clear water makes it easy to spot trout swimming in the river. Educational Opportunities: Learn about the natural filtration process that makes the water so clear and the importance of preserving such pristine environments. Relaxation: Simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. The tranquility of the area makes it a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature.

Overall, Blue Spring is highly recommended for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of...

Our favourite walks tend to be along winding streams and rivers. The Blue Springs trail does that, and much more! The Waihou River is spectacular — brilliant green hills, wonderfully canopied woodland, and of course the river's spectacular blue and aqua colours near the rapids and spring.

We parked at the trail’s north west car park off Whites Road (2B) and walked to the southeast end, then back again. The southeast end of the trail is at Leslie Road, where parking is roadside (no car park that I noticed). Leslie Road parking is closest to the Blue Spring and rapids.

The Blue Spring trail is well-maintained and mostly flat with some steps but only some occasional roots and rocks along the trail. Some rain a couple of days earlier but I don’t recall the path being noticeably sloppy.

Walking time varies, of course. We took more than 90 minutes walking from Whites Road to the Blue Spring, but that included stopping often for photos. The walk back was about 70 minutes (including time for a brief snack).

The trail has four public toilets — one at White’s road car park, one near the Blue Spring (5 minutes from Leslie Road car park at the south end of the trail, and two much more rustic toilets spaced in between.

Overall, an excellent way to spend part of the day. Only wish would be a few more picnic tables spaced along the trail.

Note: we did this walk in...

Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway) – A Hidden Gem in New Zealand’s Heartland

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

The Blue Spring at Te Waihou Walkway is nothing short of breathtaking. Nestled near Putāruru in the Waikato region, this place is a stunning showcase of natural beauty and pristine New Zealand water. The clarity and vibrant turquoise-blue color of the spring are unlike anything I’ve ever seen—it’s no wonder this spring supplies around 60% of New Zealand’s bottled water.

The walkway itself is a peaceful 4.7 km trail (one way) that winds through lush farmland, native bush, and alongside the Waihou River. It’s well maintained, and there are plenty of spots to stop, take photos, or just enjoy the tranquility. The full walk takes about 1.5 to 2 hours one way, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery.

There’s a shorter route to the Blue Spring from the Leslie Road car park if you’re short on time or prefer a lighter walk. Swimming is no longer allowed to help preserve the purity of the spring, but the beauty alone is more than enough reason to visit.

Tips: • Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring water. • Best visited early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. • Respect the environment—it’s a taonga (treasure) to many.

Overall, the Blue Spring is a must-see for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone looking for a peaceful escape...