Last updated July 2026
Wairakei Terraces and Thermal Health Spa offers adult-only geothermal bathing and a self-guided terrace walk on Wairākei Drive, roughly 5 kilometres north of Taupō town centre. The facility draws mineral-rich water from the Wairākei geothermal field to fill four outdoor pools and create cascading silica terraces. Visitors enjoy the silky feel of the water in a tranquil bush setting, while the terrace walk highlights geothermal features and connections to Ngāti Tūwharetoa. A separate cultural and geological experience is available through the walkway.
Practical Information
| Address | 671 Wairākei Drive, Taupō |
| Hours | Fri–Wed: 8am–9pm · Thu: 8am–7pm (closed Christmas Day) |
| Pool entry | Adults (14+) $27 |
| Age restriction | Pools for ages 14 and over only |
| Pools | Four pools with varying temperatures |
| Terrace walk | Adult $15 · Child (5–12) $7.50 |
About Wairakei Terraces
The site sits within the Wairākei geothermal valley and uses naturally heated, silica-rich water sourced from the adjacent geothermal power development. Four adults-only pools provide a range of temperatures for soaking, with the water known for its smooth, mineral-rich texture that leaves skin feeling nourished.
Landscaped gardens and native bush surround the pools, creating a peaceful atmosphere enhanced by birdsong and views of steam and flowing water. The facility emphasises wellness through geothermal bathing, massage treatments, and a calm environment suited to longer visits.
The self-guided terrace walk follows Te Kiri o Hinekai stream past a man-made geyser, blue pools, and cascading silica terraces. Intricate carvings along the path connect visitors to te ao Māori and local iwi Ngāti Tūwharetoa.
History and Cultural Significance
Natural thermal springs at Wairakei have been used by Māori for bathing, healing, and wellness for hundreds of years. Specific geothermal sites were traditionally valued for their location in beautiful landscapes and their therapeutic properties.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, international visitors travelled to Wairakei to “take the waters,” seeking relief from skin ailments and other conditions. The current terraces are man-made and echo the famous Pink and White Terraces of Rotomahana that were destroyed in the 1886 Tarawera eruption.
Today the site continues this tradition of healing under the guardianship of owners connected to Ngāti Tūwharetoa, incorporating cultural values of kaitiakitanga and manaakitanga alongside modern wellness offerings.
The Pools
Four pools of varying temperatures allow visitors to move between warmer and cooler options. The water contains dissolved silica and minerals including sodium, potassium, magnesium, and others that contribute to its silky texture and reputed skin and muscle benefits.
Proof of age may be requested for anyone appearing under 14. The adult-only policy maintains a tranquil setting focused on relaxation.
The Terrace Walk
The self-guided walkway showcases geothermal activity including a geyser fed by superheated fluids from over 1.5 km underground. Silica-enriched water flows over the terraces, gradually building the formations.
Carvings and interpretive elements highlight the geological and cultural story of the area. Tickets for the walk are sold separately from pool entry.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the pools as deeply relaxing with silky water that leaves skin feeling soft. Many appreciate the peaceful bush setting and the range of temperatures available for soaking.
Reviewers note the terrace walk offers interesting geothermal features and cultural carvings in a compact, scenic loop. The overall experience is praised for its calm atmosphere and connection to the natural landscape.
Where to Learn More
Wairakei Terraces Official Website: Current pricing, hours, online bookings and detailed pool and walk information.
100% Pure New Zealand – Wairākei Terraces: Overview of the site’s cultural and wellness context from Tourism New Zealand.
Our Story | Wairakei Terraces: Details on the long history of healing waters and Māori connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does pool entry cost?
Adults (14 and over) pay $27. Terrace walk tickets are sold separately at $15 for adults and $7.50 for children aged 5–12.
Can children use the pools?
No. The pools are restricted to ages 14 and over. The terrace walk is open to children with adult supervision.
How many pools are there and what temperatures?
There are four pools with varying temperatures to suit different preferences.
Is the terrace walk guided?
The terrace walk is self-guided with carvings and geothermal features along the path.
Do I need to book in advance?
Walk-ins are welcome, but booking ahead is recommended during peak periods.
What is the connection to Māori culture?
The site has a long history of use by Māori for healing and is operated with connections to Ngāti Tūwharetoa, incorporating cultural elements in the terrace walk.
How does it differ from Craters of the Moon?
Craters of the Moon is a walking reserve showcasing active geothermal features with no bathing. Wairakei Terraces provides thermal pools for soaking plus the terrace experience.
Is the water from the power station?
The pools use separated geothermal water from the Wairākei field that would otherwise be a byproduct of power generation.
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