Kuirau Park, Rotorua (2024) - Images, Timings

Kuirau Park, Rotorua Overview

Kuirau Park at the northern end of Rotorua, New Zealand, is a geothermal site with hot springs, mud pools, crater lakes and gardens. This park is a public space with walking tracks leading to the geothermal areas and providing the visitors with exciting and mesmerising sights of the boiling lakes and foot pools. Along with this, the park has other recreational activities like barbecues, playgrounds and paddling pools available and is a popular tourist attraction in the area.

Bubbling with geothermal activity in an area open to the public at all times is Kuirau Park in Rotorua, New Zealand. This site is a nature park with abundant geothermal activity and a walkway with amazing views of the hot springs, mud pools and boiling lakes. Eruptions are an occasional occurrence here, with one explosion in 2001 which sent mud and rocks the size of footballs flying into the air; therefore, safety fences bound this area to keep visitors safe.

Legend of Kuirau Park

The legend concerning the Kuirau Park tells the story of a beautiful young woman named Kuiarau taking a bath in the small lake in the park, which was then known as Taokahu. Legend has it that while she was bathing, a creature known as a Taniwha pulled her down into its lair below the lake. This act greatly angered the Gods, who then boiled the water of the lake destroy this creature.
Today it is believed that the hissing and boiling water is a result of this local story and although Taokahu’s name has undergone a few alterations, the lake and the land around are still known by her name.

Things to Do at Kuirau Park

Aside from the pathways, Kuirau Park is a hotspot for tourists with its barbecue picnic spaces, paddling pools and foot pools. The lakes here are the perfect spot for the children to enjoy, along with the playground space nearby. The adults sometimes make use of the pool areas as relaxing places and ‘foot pools’.

Visitor Tips

Kuirau Park has become a popular tourist attraction with steaming pools and beautiful views to enjoy.
It is however strongly advised to stay on the cool side of the fence to keep safe from the surprise geothermal eruptions.

How To Reach Kuirau Park

By Car
If you plan to drive, the fastest way to the park is via Ranolf Street.
By Bus
Baybus service is available along Route 9, from the Rotorua CBD till Ranolf Street. The park is about a 6-minute walk away from here.