Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa
Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa
Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa
4.5
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 8:30 PM
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- Tigerram224 contributionsRelaxed Thermal Spa, pay your entry fee and then go enjoy the different pools for as long as you like. There are four different temperature pools. Hottest is 41/42C (located at the most top part of the area) and feels like being in a sauna. Next to this is the coolest pool at 33C, feels cooler after moving from the hottest, and as such is considered a plunge pool. The other two pools are connected, yet keep slightly different temperatures, one at 38C and the other at 36C. The temp differences may seem small but they do feel quite different when in the pools. There is ample room for quite a lot of people, though it was relatively quiet when we visited so was extra relaxing. You feel very relaxed after enjoying the pools for a couple of hours. The minerals should also prove good for the body. $27 entry, $5 for a towel (plus $5 deposit), same for a locker, double this price for a robe. You can bring your own items (and water) to avoid these costs.Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 20, 2024
- DarciWenatchee, Washington82 contributionsA magical place of soothing warm waters and geothermal activities. The spa is very clean and well maintained. There are 4 pools of varying temps from hot to warm and a warm waterfall you can sit under. There is water filling station, cold shower and plenty of hooks and benches to store your things. The locker rooms are spacious and clean with nice showers. We soaked for a few hours then got dressed and explored the walking tour on the perimeter to see the geyser and geothermal activities, there is even a museum to the Māuri people explaining there history with the spa. A great way to spend the afternoon!Visited February 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten March 12, 2025
- nowekowWellington, New Zealand48 contributionsIf you are in Taupo you can Not go past this place Truly a natural wonderland $27 well spent or you can go on grab one and save $10 Unfortunately adults only bring your bathing suits and enjoy a hot soak in natures finest thermal springsVisited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 21, 2024
- JD_Who6614Sioux Falls, South Dakota286 contributionsGreat value for only $27.00! Loved the 4 large pools with slightly differing temperatures. Thermal heat comes from the waterfalls so move away from those for cooler water. The middle pool is the best option. No time limit as well. Water is available for purchase for $3.00 on site, but you can also refill your water bottle for free. Look for a faucet about halfway down the pathway. Excellent staff!👍Visited February 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten February 2, 2025
- Suzanna EDania Beach, Florida625 contributionsThis place was absolutely magical! I did the full self guided tour around the property and was amazed with everything I saw. There’s a huge geyser behind the thermal pools feeding into them. I soaked in all of their pools for a couple of hours. So relaxing and great for your body and soul. I highly recommend these thermal pools when you are in Lake Taupo. You won’t regret it!Visited September 2024Traveled soloWritten October 13, 2024
- hogan123Wellington, New Zealand9 contributionsLoved the pools but the changing facilities are pretty rank. Dirty floors, skirting boards, ceilings full of cobwebs. Obvious that maintenance is scarce also. Sad that these issues let the business down.Visited January 2025Traveled as a coupleWritten January 4, 2025
- Rachael CThames, New Zealand5 contributionsA relaxing way to spend a couple of hours, but be warned...on a wet Saturday afternoon this place gets crowded! Fortunately we were leaving around 3pm when the hoards were arriving. Seriously, there was a queue to get into the women's changing room as we left 😁Visited August 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten August 18, 2024
- Sheryl BAuckland Central, New Zealand12 contributionsJust blissful..... So quiet & peaceful... Highly recommended. We went on a cloudy day on the morning &. It was perfect. Don't get your hair wet though! It REALLY sucked ALL the moisture from my hair to the point it went crunchy!Visited October 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten October 25, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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Deanosaur89
Edmonton, Canada9,400 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
We enjoyed the thermal spa and spent about an hour and a half here going through the different pools. The one at the top is the hottest and has signage to show that it might go above 40 C and to be careful but the rest is all very pleasant. We went during the winter and spent the most time in the pool with the large waterfall.
We were surprised to find out how pricey it was but most springs in the area you can bathe in appear to be privately owned so I guess we shouldn't have been too surprised. The springs are $27 NZD and the walkway is $15 NZD. We were keen to do both but they do not offer a combo so we declined to spend more as the sun was setting.
The hot pools charge additional fees for the lockers, towels and swimwear. They allowed us to share a locker but we found many guests just carried their items to the springs area without issue. There are hooks and benches that are relatively dry to hang bags and towels. Bringing your own swimwear and towels would be recommended and you could leave your valuables in your vehicle without issue too.
We would recommend wearing sandals or flip flops as the mats in the hot pools area were not comfortable to walk on. They are open into the evening and we felt this was a nice spot to watch the sun go down as the many free parks and attractions around us were closing their gates. They recommend that you do not shower for 4 to 8 hours after to feel the effects of the water and we followed that recommendation and felt our skin was smoother.
We were surprised to find out how pricey it was but most springs in the area you can bathe in appear to be privately owned so I guess we shouldn't have been too surprised. The springs are $27 NZD and the walkway is $15 NZD. We were keen to do both but they do not offer a combo so we declined to spend more as the sun was setting.
The hot pools charge additional fees for the lockers, towels and swimwear. They allowed us to share a locker but we found many guests just carried their items to the springs area without issue. There are hooks and benches that are relatively dry to hang bags and towels. Bringing your own swimwear and towels would be recommended and you could leave your valuables in your vehicle without issue too.
We would recommend wearing sandals or flip flops as the mats in the hot pools area were not comfortable to walk on. They are open into the evening and we felt this was a nice spot to watch the sun go down as the many free parks and attractions around us were closing their gates. They recommend that you do not shower for 4 to 8 hours after to feel the effects of the water and we followed that recommendation and felt our skin was smoother.
Written July 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Meandwotsername
Taupo, New Zealand40 contributions
Jan 2024 • Couples
When we arrived, we were not warned about how hot the pools were, so paid and went in. The main pool, which is normally about 38C, had the waterfall off and the water temperature was way above that and simply too hot to get in. Even under the bridge where the water is normally 36C, was uncomfortably too hot. There were a couple of people in there but they were sat around the edges and out of the water. The top pool that was 40C was bearable but the only comfortable pool was the cool 34C next to it. When we asked, the uninterested girl taking the temperatures why this has happened for the second time in a month, she said she couldn’t explain why!
Frankly, it could have been dangerous for anyone with health issues and a waste of money.
This should not happen!
Frankly, it could have been dangerous for anyone with health issues and a waste of money.
This should not happen!
Written January 19, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mike_Skidmore
Northampton, UK206 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
Having only a short drive to Taupo yesterday, we decided on some chill time & selected these hot pools over the De Brett’s option, principally on the adults only basis.
Received a warm reception from the staff, directing us around the facility. I’d seen on one review a complaint about the distance to walk from the changing rooms to the pools & the reference to a rough surface. There is a short walk & the mats are the typical pool like mats required for safety in wet situations. We didn’t think that walk was a problem at all.
You can hire everything you need here, including swimwear should you need it. The changing rooms have hooks for clothes & there are a number of open shelters around the pools where you can place towels of valuables to keep an eye on should you not wish to rent a locker. Most of ours were secure on the car but we were able to keep track of the limited items that we’d taken to the pools.
As the adverts advise, there are 4 pools at different temperatures so it’s easy to find one that suits you. It’s a beautiful location surrounded by greenery & a delightful place to spend a couple of hours.
Whilst it wasn’t a particularly sunny day yesterday, we noticed afterwards that we’d both caught the sun well on those parts above the water line - no a criticism of the location but something to be aware of, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
One constructive suggestion that we made as we left was that is would have been helpful to have the spinning machines in the changing rooms to “dry” the swimwear. Apparently this point has been made a number of times & the staff member we spoke to was hopeful that they would be included in a forthcoming refit due on the next couple of months.
Received a warm reception from the staff, directing us around the facility. I’d seen on one review a complaint about the distance to walk from the changing rooms to the pools & the reference to a rough surface. There is a short walk & the mats are the typical pool like mats required for safety in wet situations. We didn’t think that walk was a problem at all.
You can hire everything you need here, including swimwear should you need it. The changing rooms have hooks for clothes & there are a number of open shelters around the pools where you can place towels of valuables to keep an eye on should you not wish to rent a locker. Most of ours were secure on the car but we were able to keep track of the limited items that we’d taken to the pools.
As the adverts advise, there are 4 pools at different temperatures so it’s easy to find one that suits you. It’s a beautiful location surrounded by greenery & a delightful place to spend a couple of hours.
Whilst it wasn’t a particularly sunny day yesterday, we noticed afterwards that we’d both caught the sun well on those parts above the water line - no a criticism of the location but something to be aware of, particularly for those with sensitive skin.
One constructive suggestion that we made as we left was that is would have been helpful to have the spinning machines in the changing rooms to “dry” the swimwear. Apparently this point has been made a number of times & the staff member we spoke to was hopeful that they would be included in a forthcoming refit due on the next couple of months.
Written October 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
137ruthb
37 contributions
Jan 2021 • Friends
Highly recommended - lovely surroundings where you can relax in warm or hot water depending on your preference
I wouldn't recommend for younger children as the emphasis is on peaceful relaxation.
Grab One has a good deal on where you can get a $15 adult entry - absolute bargain! There are spa treatments available on site too.
Gorgeous surroundings and friendly staff
I wouldn't recommend for younger children as the emphasis is on peaceful relaxation.
Grab One has a good deal on where you can get a $15 adult entry - absolute bargain! There are spa treatments available on site too.
Gorgeous surroundings and friendly staff
Written February 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Margarita Queen
Worcester, UK41 contributions
Mar 2023 • Couples
Easy to find, easy to park, straightforward entry- you can hire towels, togs (trunks/costumes), lockers (although you can take your bag with you and hang up near whichever pool you are in), temperature goes up to about 40 degrees in one pool so beware of you have high blood pressure or are pregnant!
Suggest taking crocs/flip flops/jangles/thongs and a bottle of water as there aren’t any taps around the pools.
Cafe closed at 4pm which is a shame because it doesn’t close till 8pm and you come out thirsty and hungry!
Suggest taking crocs/flip flops/jangles/thongs and a bottle of water as there aren’t any taps around the pools.
Cafe closed at 4pm which is a shame because it doesn’t close till 8pm and you come out thirsty and hungry!
Written March 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Bety24
Te Kuiti, New Zealand115 contributions
Feb 2024 • Couples
Entry is from 14+ that we really like. No children making mess or noise. There are 3 cascade pools (40, 36 and 34 Degree water), deep enough for some swimming. Not too crouded. We spent around 3 hours chilling in the water and that was really enough. Minus is that entry fee not include walk. With price of 27$ per person, another 15$ for the walk is little ridiculous. Should be at least discount..
Written February 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
familyoffiveonhols
New Zealand308 contributions
Sep 2023 • Friends
We visitied late afternoon into the early evening. The pool area is beautiful natural and hot. The three pools are of different temperatures (unknown due to the natural nature of the water).
When we visited it was busy but were able to find somewhere to sit and relax in all the pools.
If you are used to similar in other parts of the world you will be disappointed at what is not included in the price eg water, nice facilities, robes, towels etc. However, these can all be purchased or hired at a small additional cost, making the entry cost a bargain and the experience authentic.
The only thing that would make this any better would be a swim up bar.
When we visited it was busy but were able to find somewhere to sit and relax in all the pools.
If you are used to similar in other parts of the world you will be disappointed at what is not included in the price eg water, nice facilities, robes, towels etc. However, these can all be purchased or hired at a small additional cost, making the entry cost a bargain and the experience authentic.
The only thing that would make this any better would be a swim up bar.
Written October 1, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Margot A
Tauranga, New Zealand102 contributions
Sep 2020 • Friends
While having a friends weekend away, a group of 8 of us visited these hotpools. None of us had been here before and we were all pleasantly suprised at how beautiful it was. The sun was just setting and the glow of the night lights created a sort of magical atmosphere. The silky water was divine to swim in. With 4 areas to explore, each with its own temperature, there is a spot for everyone.
Written September 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Soni6
Waihi, New Zealand88 contributions
Oct 2022 • Friends
From the moment you walk in staff are super friendly and the walk down the path leads you to amazing settings and fabulous hot pools. Native tree surroundings complete with Tui in the Kōwhai trees. The pools….bliss. Four different heats so you can find the perfect pool to soak and relax. The 14+ age limit means that it is fairly quiet and peaceful. A fantastic experience.
Written October 24, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
b1ndu
London, UK30 contributions
Feb 2020
We choose this pool as it is only for adults. I think children over the age of 14 are allowed. It’s a fantastic place to relax. There are three pools with different temperatures so you can choose which ever one you want. The staff is friendly and the changing rooms are clean. Lockers are available for hire but a lot of people had left their stuff out on benches. Take towels from the hotel to save on hire charges. Also take a water bottle as you can get very hot sitting in the pools. They recommend not having a shower after a session to get the full benefit of the waters. So tie your hair up, relax and enjoy.
Written March 4, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Good question - around 4ft (1.4m) would be my estimate from memory
Written July 7, 2024
I see I can book a walk through the terraces or book entry into hotpools. If I book entry to hotpools, woukdnt that include walking through the terraces? Or is the walk something completely separate?
Written October 10, 2019
They are separate, to get to the pools you just walk down a fardened path, the terraces walk is more of a geothermal boardwalk and is seperate
Written October 19, 2019
Hi, Yes - there are showers - however - they say that you don't get the benefits of the minerals in the water if you shower it off immediately afterwards.
Written April 25, 2019
How do you get there with no car from taupo center?
Written April 19, 2019
There is a shuttle service that goes from the Taupo i-site to the major Taupo attractions including the Wairakei Terraces. It is $20 per person. For more information look up the Great Lake Explorer on the Live Taupo website
Written April 19, 2019
No tables I haven’t seen anyone eat there. I would suggest De Brett’s or AC baths both lovely places if you want to take a picnic :)
Written May 12, 2018
Hi, does anyone know if you need to book ahead to use the hot pools or if you can just turn up?
Written September 2, 2017
We bought half price tickets from grabone. They are on sale again now. Best hot pools experience weve had. I phoned ahead to check if we needed to book and told to just turn up. I bought more grabone tickets for these pools as we enjoyed them so much.
Written September 7, 2017
Can you just turn up and use the pools or do you have to book ?
Written October 2, 2016
just turn up , huge pools, beautiful walk around, but have to pay for pool. have a look at grab one, often specials there.
Written October 17, 2016
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