Hell's Gate Geothermal Park

Hells Gate is a one-of-a-kind destination in New Zealand where you can indulge in the unique experience of soaking in an outdoor mud bath. For generations, the Maori have harnessed its therapeutic powers to soothe joint and muscle aches. Imagine getting delightfully messy in a mud bath, then unwinding in a sulfur spa with a view that takes your breath away: a stunning geothermal landscape. Afterward, cool off under a refreshing spring-fed waterfall or take a plunge into a crystal-clear pool. For a magical experience, try the Twilight Spa and soak under a sky filled with stars until 10 pm.

The Hells Gate reserve boasts three distinct types of healing thermal mud. There's Black Mud, known for its benefits in treating arthritis and rheumatism. Then there's White Mud, perfect for easing burns, and Grey Mud, which offers a gentle way to exfoliate your skin. Not only is Hells Gate New Zealand's most active geothermal hot spot, but it also features the country's largest mud volcano and the biggest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere.

Exploring the 50-acre reserve is a must. You can take a guided tour to witness erupting waters, colorful pools, steaming cliffs, and bubbling mud. The landscape is dotted with sulphur crystals and fascinating land coral. If you're a nature lover, you can also enjoy a walk through the native bush surrounding the thermal park. Did you know that the geothermal activity here is so intense that it can heat the ground to over 100 degrees Celsius in some spots? It's a natural marvel that leaves you in awe.