Discover the Wonders of Wairakei Thermal Valley
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders of Wairakei Thermal Valley, a natural gem in Taupō, New Zealand.
Wairakei Thermal Valley is a captivating geothermal attraction in Taupō, New Zealand. Visitors can experience stunning natural landscapes, bubbling hot springs, and unique geothermal features that showcase the power of the earth beneath your feet. This destination is perfect for those seeking natural beauty and relaxation.
A brief summary to Wairakei Thermal Valley
- Taupō, Wairakei, NZ
- +6473748004
- Visit website
- Monday 11 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-5 pm
- Thursday 11 am-5 pm
- Friday 11 am-5 pm
- Saturday 11 am-5 pm
- Sunday 4 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes as the pathways can be uneven and muddy.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning geothermal features and landscapes.
- Check the weather ahead of time, as the valley is best enjoyed in clear conditions.
Getting There
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Bus
From Taupo town center, walk to the Taupo Bus Terminal located at 36 Roberts Street. Look for the bus service to Wairakei, which is operated by local transport providers. Buses usually run several times a day. Make sure to check the schedule in advance to plan your trip accordingly. The journey to Wairakei Thermal Valley takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and you should ask the driver to drop you off at Wairakei Thermal Valley.
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Bicycle
If you're feeling adventurous, you can rent a bicycle from one of the rental shops in Taupo. Start your ride from the Taupo town center and head towards the Wairakei Drive road. Follow Wairakei Drive for approximately 7 km (around 15-20 minutes of cycling). As you approach the Wairakei area, look for signs directing you to the Wairakei Thermal Valley. The route is mostly flat and offers scenic views, making it a pleasant ride.
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Walking
For those who enjoy walking, you can take a leisurely stroll from Taupo town center to Wairakei Thermal Valley. Start from the Taupo Information Centre on Tongariro Street and head northwest on Ruapehu Street. Continue walking straight until you reach Wairakei Drive. Turn left onto Wairakei Drive and follow the road for about 7 km. The walk will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated!
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Taxi or Rideshare
You can easily hail a taxi or use a rideshare app like Uber from any point in Taupo. Simply enter 'Wairakei Thermal Valley' as your destination, and the driver will take you directly there. The ride should take around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. This option is convenient if you prefer not to walk or cycle.
Discover more about Wairakei Thermal Valley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kingi Pitiroi Arts
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Taupo TOP 10 Holiday Park
6.6 km
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Taupo Monumental Ltd
6.7 km
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Confinement Escape Rooms Taupo
6.7 km
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Taupō Customer & Visitor Information Centre
7.3 km
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Doughboats Lake Taupo
7.3 km
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Lake Taupo Harbourmaster Internal Affairs Department
7.3 km
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Top Cat Charters
7.3 km
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Fish Taupo aboard Stratus
7.4 km
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Taupo Domain Playground
7.4 km
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HELL Pizza Taupo
7.4 km
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Based By The Lake Taupo
7.5 km
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Taupo's Floatplane
7.5 km
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Market Central Taupō
7.7 km
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Taupo DeBretts Spa Resort
8.8 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Huka Prawn Park
0.8 km
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Hukafalls Jet Taupo
0.9 km
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Wairakei Thermal Walk & Animal Park
1.2 km
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Rock'n Ropes
1.4 km
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Huka Honey Hive
1.5 km
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Lava Glass - Glassblowing Studio, Sculpture Garden, Art Gallery, Café
1.9 km
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Huka Falls Park and Walk (Waikato River Walk)
2.3 km
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Huka Falls Lookout
2.5 km
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Huka Falls
2.7 km
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Craters Mountain Bike Park
2.7 km
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Huka Falls Bridge
2.8 km
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Craters of the Moon
3.0 km
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Huka Falls River Cruise
3.7 km
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Aratiati Staudamm
3.8 km
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Aratiatia Rapids
3.9 km
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Essential places to dine
Pavilion Restaurant
0.5 km
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Embra
6.6 km
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Taupo Indian Cuisine Restaurant&Bar
6.7 km
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The Storehouse
6.7 km
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Pauly's Diner
7.0 km
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Incredible India Restaurant and Bar
7.0 km
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Lotus Thai Restaurant
7.0 km
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Victoria's Cafe Kitchen Bar
7.0 km
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TC's Restaurant
7.0 km
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Suncourt Indian
7.1 km
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The Bistro
7.1 km
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Thai Delight Restaurant Taupo
7.1 km
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The Cozy Corner
7.1 km
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Kefi
7.2 km
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Best Kebabs
7.2 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hospice Shop Taupo
6.4 km
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The Warehouse Taupo
6.9 km
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The Woolshed Taupo
7.0 km
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Oakleaf Antiques
7.0 km
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Northern lights clothing EST.23 Taupo
7.0 km
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Wild at Heart
7.0 km
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The $2 Plus shop
7.0 km
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Super Dollars
7.1 km
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Milly Black
7.1 km
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Cassis
7.1 km
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Nznamlink
7.1 km
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New Zealand Corner
7.2 km
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Jade Centre
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Wild South Taupo
7.2 km
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Stardust Creations
7.2 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dance Club
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Rosemary’s
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Dbar
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Pitch Sports Bar
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Cornerstone Taproom Taupo
7.5 km
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Mulligans Public House
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The Deck
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Pub n Grub Taupo
7.5 km
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Lakefront Bar
9.3 km
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Turangi Bridge Motel, Bar & Restaurant
46.8 km
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Rust Licensed Gourmet Burger Bar
47.5 km
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Turangi Tavern
47.6 km
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Good Eastern Taphouse
55.4 km
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Our Backyard Pub
55.7 km
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The RnM Sports Bar & Grill
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