Wairakei Terraces in Taupo is man made, although it is named after a historical 'pink terraces'which have been lost. But that doesnts top this place being pretty amazing. It is one of the most relaxating places I've been. And yeah there is a touch of magic as well. The area around Taupo (and the more famous Rotorua) is volvanic and there are plenty of thermal springs which the local Maori people have used as a spot to heal, seek peace, and leave any conflicts behind. This is what has been recreated today, a sanctuary for unwinding, surrounded by lush native forest and the sparkling blue-green of silica-rich pools.
The Wairakei Terraces are powered by geothermal energy, which comes from the nearby Wairakei Geothermal Power Station which is New Zealand’s oldest and largest geothermal electricity generator. Hot water is piped from deep beneath the earth, around 1.5 km underground, and of course when it hits the surface it produces a huge gusts of steam. The water is mineral-rich and superheated water is diverted from the power plant and flows over the terraces, cooling itself and making the terraces mineral coveredand shaping the striking silica formations you see at the site. It then fills the pools which unsurprisingly are hotter near the source and coller further away
The main role of the Wairakei Power Station is to generate electricity using the earth’s heat, but surplus geothermal water—still packed with minerals and heat—is provided directly to various local ventures, including the Wairakei Terraces. This means the pools aren’t reliant on traditional hydroelectricity; instead, they make full use of the region’s geothermal resources and the infrastructure that was originally built for power generation.
What makes the pools here special? First off, they’re adults-only—perfect for enjoying a tranquil soak. There are four pools, each at a different temperature, so there’s something for everyone. The hottest pool reaches a sauna-like 41–42°C, while the coolest invites you in at a refreshing 33°C, great after sampling the other steamy options. The other pools sit in the comfy middle range, around 36°C and 38°C, meaning you can hop around to find your own sweet spot.
Beyond the heat, it’s all about the minerals—silica, magnesium, sodium, and more—that give the water its silky touch and alleged healing powers. If you’re after a break from the everyday grind and want to soak up New Zealand’s geothermal wonders, these terraces offer an experience that feels both ancient and rejuvenating.
We went to this place becuase we wanted to avoid the crowds in Rotorua which as I said is more famous, and I have to tell you it was a great decision. I've been to geothermal pools in Iceland, those famous ones you see on Instagram (which by the way are all piped water from geo-termal plants) and this is better, it's quieter, but just a magical and it very relaxing. We were here in Autumn and it was nice, I imagine it's even better on a really cold winters day