Best hot springs trails in New Zealand

To experience what many people call the "World's Greatest Day Hike" you will need no permits, however, transportation arrangements must be made for both ends of the hike, so make sure you do some planning! You must also be mindful of shuttle pick-up times if you decide to summit Mt. Tongariro or Mt. Ngauruhoe (both cannot be done within the same day). There are sections of the hike that are considered active volcano areas, and the trail has optional side trips to Mount Tongariro and Mount Ngauruhoe (famously known as 'Mt Doom' in the Lord of the Rings trilogy) as well as passing Mount Ruapehu.Show more

Located in the heart of North Island in Tongariro National Park. A volcanic park full of unique lunar landscapes, old craters, lakes and steaming hot pools. https://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/places-to-go/central-north-island/places/tongariro-national-park/things-to-do/tracks/tongariro-northern-circuit/Show more

The Fairy Pools is a heat-soaked river bed swimming spot Show more

Note: The Wai-o-tapu Thermal Park is currently closed for renovations and not open to the public. Please visit the park website for updates here - https://www.waiotapu.co.nz/ There is an entrance fee of $42 for this area. It is recommended that you check in advance to see the daily erupting geyser (it's actually a couple min drive down the road from visitor center - you need a ticket here too). The Champagne Pool is impressive and unique. So many bubbling pools and cool little sights. Info on signs along the way. Do the whole thing. Very easy walk.Show more

Please note: hikers have reported that this trail is closed due to rock slide. Please consult the park's website before visiting.Show more