Wairakei Natural Thermal Valley, Taupo

PLUS: Hidden gem, and that's coming from one who rarely stays in campgrounds. Lots of pet critters wandering around. Up a gravel road near the Wairakei power station, so no traffic noise. MINUS: 17 bucks for one person on a non-powered site is one of the reasons I don't stay in these places.

Wasn't that impressed to be honest. Nice friendly owner and cool device that you get to measure the temperature of the ground but it was a bit pricey for what it was. There was hardly any geothermal activity so basically you're paying ten dollars for a bush walk with a bit of steam. Pretty bush walk though. It had been raining and the paths were very much in need of an upgrade, ended up getting soaked shoes & mud all over our trousers. I think $5 would be worth it.

Drove all the way up the road to find out that it would cost us $10 each! Pretty strange and over familiar owner. Another kiwi example of a natural landscape feature that should be freely accessible.

This hidden Thermal Park would be spectacular if the Geothermal Power Station hadn't drawn so much steam off that the thermal parks geysers all ceased. Activity is still present and you can see and feel the steam funneling up through the vents while the water boils away below at 100deg F. Run by the family owners this park has numerous attractions for tourist and locals alike. Children love the animals from rabbits to peacocks & Lamas. But a great deal of time and effort is needed for an upgrade. Interestingly a grape vine has taken control of the lower end of the park and at this time of the year all the local Tuis are ha ing a feeding party!

A little expensive for what is it. It was a nice walk of 30min with geothermal features along the way. The owner was really nice!