Located 27 km towards the south of Rotorua on SH5, Waiotapu is a wonderland of stunning geothermal activity. Wai-O-Tapu means “Sacred Water” that perfectly depicts its meaning. It covers an area of 18 square kilometers reserved by the department of conservation and occupies the site of the largest mud volcano in New Zealand. The visitor centre at the place offers the gateway to New Zealand’s most colorful natural volcanic environment. Visitors can walk nearby and admire the unique features of the geothermal area, including the world famous champagne pool, steaming ground, and huge volcanic craters. Other attractions include spectacular views over erupting mud pools as well as the Lady Know Geyser. The Champagne Pool is a prominent geothermal feature caused by mineral and silicate interference, which forms orange subaqueous deposits.
The colorful deposits are in sharp contrast to grey –white silica sinter surrounding Champagne Pool, making the steaming waters of Waiotapu a must visit spot. The Lady Knox Geyser inspires visitors with its boiling hot water. It bursts from its white, conical mound of silica roughly at 10:15am daily and it offers a magnificent view. Visitors can choose among these entire walks, which take between 30 and 75 minutes.