Hell's Gate Geothermal Walk, Mud Bath and Sulphur Spa Experience

1 h 30 min Free cancellation

Hell's Gate Geothermal Walk, Mud Bath and Sulphur Spa Experience, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience one of New Zealand’s most unique geothermal attractions at Hell’s Gate, Rotorua’s premier geothermal reserve and mud spa. What makes this experience truly special is the opportunity to explore an active geothermal landscape shaped by volcanic forces while enjoying traditional wellness treatments inspired by Māori culture. Wander through steaming cliffs, bubbling mud pools, hot springs, and dramatic geothermal features found nowhere else in New Zealand. After exploring the reserve, unwind in the famous geothermal mud baths, known for their mineral-rich properties, before soaking in soothing sulfur spa pools surrounded by natural scenery. Learn about the cultural significance of the area and its long history of healing and relaxation. Combining geothermal wonders, cultural heritage, and rejuvenating spa experiences, Hell’s Gate offers an unforgettable blend of adventure and wellness that makes it a must-visit destination in Rotorua.

Onsens Spas Thermal Spas & Hot Springs Small Group Short term availability Weather Dependent - Weather-Proof

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 10 people
People per booking: 1–10
Guide: English
Operated by: TrevoTour Travels

Ages: Infants (0–4 years) · Children (5–15 years) · Adults (16–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Geothermal walk, Māori carving, Mud foot pool+ Professional guide (If option selected)
Included: Bathing in our world-famous mud baths+Soaking in the sulphur spas (If option selected)
Included: Geothermal walk, Maori carving, Mud foot pool, Mud baths, Sulphur spas, Cool plung pool(If selected)

Not included

Not included: Meals and beverages
Not included: Other personal expenses

Itinerary

Experience the unique geothermal wonders of Hell’s Gate, Rotorua’s most active geothermal reserve and home to New Zealand’s famous mud spa. Begin by exploring scenic geothermal trails where you will see steaming cliffs, bubbling mud pools, hot springs, erupting geothermal features, and the largest hot waterfall in the Southern Hemisphere. Along the way, learn about Māori legends, traditions, and the healing significance of this remarkable landscape. After your walk, cover your skin in nutrient-rich geothermal mud and relax in a warm mud bath, a practice used by local Māori for centuries. Continue your experience with a soothing soak in natural sulphur mineral pools, known for their relaxing and skin-rejuvenating properties. You may also have the opportunity to enjoy a cool plunge pool and discover traditional Māori carving demonstrations. Combining geothermal exploration, cultural heritage, and natural wellness, this experience offers a memorable way to discover the unique beauty and healing traditions of Rotorua.

Stop 1
Hell's Gate Geothermal Reserve & Mud Spa

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We will meet up at Hell's Gate, 351 State Highway 30 Tikitere, Rotorua New Zealand. You can choose to depart at the following times: 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30. Make sure you take part at the time you selected at booking.

End point

We will meet up at Hell's Gate, 351 State Highway 30 Tikitere, Rotorua New Zealand. You can choose to depart at the following times: 10:00, 10:30, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30, 13:00, 13:30, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 16:30. Make sure you take part at the time you selected at booking.

Using your ticket

We will share the voucher and activity details one day before the travel date.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The mud baths are suitable for children over the age of 2.5 years, whereas the Sulphur spas are suitable for children over the age of 6 months
It is important that children (as well as adults) drink water while bathing in orderto keep hydrated
If you are having a spa or mud bath experience, you can either bring your ownbathing attire and towels or hire them at Hell’s Gate for $5.00 per item, subject to availability
All infants 0 - 4 must wear bathing suits or disposable nappies whilst bathing
What to bring: Change of clothes, Sunglasses, Towel and Swimwear
Operating hours and days may vary. Please see the https://www.hellsgate.co.nz/contact for the latest information and to check the last entrance times
Address 351 State Highway 30, Tikitere, Rotorua
Please refer to the https://www.google.com/maps/place/351+State+Highway+30,+Tikitere,+Rotorua+3074%E6%96%B0%E8%A5%BF%E5%85%B0/@-38.0651633,176.3580556,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x6d6e84eb7e1861bf:0xb0ab4d0cf9c837ac!8m2!3d-38.0651675!4d176.3602443 for assistance
How to get there: Complimentary shuttle bus from Rotorua area
From October 2026 through March 2027 (Easter), operating hours will be extended until 21:00, accompanied by an expansion of the complimentary shuttle service
Complimentary guided-tours run daily at 10:30am and 2:30pm (1 October 2023 – 30 April 2024), subject to availability. Alternatively, a self-guided map is provided on arrival