Location: Wairakei, Taupo, NZ
If you're looking to dial things back a notch during your time in the Taupo region, the steamy enjoyment that Wairakei Terraces offer are one of the best spots in the area to do so as the geothermally-heated waters of its various hot pools go a long way to soothing tired muscles and aching bones.
The attraction is quite visually striking to look at, featuring a series of silica terraces filled with naturally mineral-rich waters that have played a large role in Maori healing techniques for centuries and which face a wonderful outlook surrounded by rich native bush that takes on a whole new life during the winter months.
Snowfall only serves to add an extra layer of charms to the surrounds, as the white tableau contrasts beautifully with the vivid blue of the pools – and there's simply something to be said about relaxing amongst soothing waters while delicate snowflakes fall into your skin.
The pools themselves are beautiful and clean – largely due to a respectable lack of over-commercialisation – with varying temperature levels in each pool that range from warm to almost-too-hot, and graduating from one level to the next is a pleasant process. The terraces, while they look natural, are actually man-made, however the water they flow with is completely organic, and it's quite possible here to spend several hours simply soaking in the minerals and steam and unwinding while taking in the surrounds.
The pools themselves are beautiful and clean, with varying temperature levels in each pool that range from warm to almost-too-hot, and graduating from one level to the next is a pleasant process.
Wairakei Terraces also offers a dose of culture in the form of a traditional Maori performance show which takes place in the evenings that incorporates song, dance and an authentic Hongi greeting that involves the touching of noses between two people. The experience is capped off with a traditionally-prepared Hangi meal and, of course, that most Maori of performances – the Haka.
Options also exist for visitors to take a guided tour “back stage” that showcases different parts of the terraces and surrounding area, which helps provide a historical perspective and put the surroundings into context. There's even the chance to take relaxation to the max and get yourself an indulgent personal massage!
Lastly, one important thing to bear in mind when visiting Wairakei Terraces is that no children are allowed (the minimum age of entry is 14), which can either be a blessing or a curse depending on if you've got kids along for the trip (or perhaps just a blessing if you're able to leave them in someone else's care!). This leads to maintaining a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere, which is what most people are looking for from a facility such as this.
Relaxation is the name of the game at Wairakei Terraces, and its blend of surrounds, soothing waters and escapist atmosphere contribute to it more than living up to this reputation.
