Blending the splendours of the geothermal landscape and the unique experience that a traditional Maori village has to offer, Whakarewarewa can satisfy every sense of you while taking in breathtaking views of the region. The Whakarewarewa Thermal Valley is made up of 65 geyser vents and 500 hot springs that are among the sprawling uniquely vivid sinter terraces and pools. Separated by three kilometres from Rotorua, the Whakarewarewa is a highly popular tourism destination.

Pohutu Geyser

Whakarewarewa is the home to the largest geyser in New Zealand; the mighty Pohutu Geyser becomes active, erupts up to 15 times a day, and spews hot water about 30 metres (100 feet) upwards. The word ‘Pohutu’ means “explosion” or “big splash”. Each geyser in the Whakarewarewa has a name of its own.
This splendid exhibition of nature’s power came under threat as its geothermal resource was tapped into for commercial and domestic heating purposes. But as the influx of local and international tourists to the place increased year after year, the local government decided to close these drains in the late 1980’s; and due to continuous conservation efforts, the geysers had been restored of their marvellous past.

Te Puia

Dubbed as the Living Thermal Village, the Whakarewarewa is the site to the Maori people who are the original inhabitants for more than 700 years. Today, it also houses the New Zealand Maori Arts and Crafts Institute, opened in 1963, to conserve the outstanding attainments of Māori, and promote all aspects of its culture. At the core of the Whakarewarewa is the Pa, a Maori hamlet where you may be one with the whares (traditional carved houses) and watch in awe how the everyday lifestyle of indigenous peoples of New Zealand unfolds. Take a peep into how the Maori of this region lived in complete harmony with the geothermal environment abounding with natural resources.

The Whakarewarewa Experience

Have a gala time with the timeless Maori custom cultural performances blending mellifluous voices, piquant movement and respect of the land and their forebears. True to its cultural and spiritual roots, the Whakarewarewa experience is something not to be missed. If your are done treating your senses to the delights of Whakarewarewa’s sights and sounds, then why not expose your taste buds to the jouissance of the palate and aromas that their cuisine masterfully proposes? Just close your eyes and soak in the old traditional Hangi meal prepared in a pit of hot stones and multiple layers of earth and flax and corn on the cob cooked fresh in the steaming hot water springs? Nothing can come closer to an original Maori experience!