Hells Gate Geothermal Reserve is set in 50 acres with a large variety of geothermal features. Walk past steaming fumeroles and pools of boiling MUD so violent they are unnerving.

We have the largest hot waterfall in the southern hemisphere and the only mud volcano in New Zealand. Coupled with the bubbling mud pools, steaming fumaroles and soft hot waters in Sulphur Lake, the geothermal walk is a great introduction to Hells Gate & Wai Ora Spa.

The walk takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, and is also brilliant in the rain. We provide umbrella's on site if the weather is not the best, and a complimentary self-guide map.

Follow the footsteps of Warriors of old through the swirling clouds of steam, past the pool where the Maori Princess "Hurutini" lost her life, see the violent geothermal activity of the Inferno, the Kakahi Falls, the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.

Here, warriors would bathe in the sulphurous waters to heal their wounds after battle and remove the "tapu" (sacredness) of war.

FEEL THE EARTH'S RAW POWER

Hell's Gate, Tikitere is a unique place of extreme contrasts. You will see remarkable formations and colours, cascading hot water and unearthly vistas, even examples of "land coral".
No need to heed the warning signs, you will want to hug the path!!