Whakarewarewa Thermal Village is a living Maori village located in Rotorua, New Zealand, and is one of the oldest continuous Maori tourism experiences in the country.
The village is home to the Tuhourangi and Ngati Wahiao sub-tribes and is situated on a geothermal plateau, making it a wonderland of Maori culture, geothermal activity, and traditions. The Whaka Geothermal Trails are a self-guided tour that provides exclusive access to an untouched geothermal landscape, allowing visitors to experience the raw nature of Papatuanuku (mother earth).
These trails combine views of native ferns, edible plants, and glimpses of the unique geothermal landscape, including colorful steaming lakes and thermal pools that can only be viewed at Whakarewarewa. Visitors will definitely find a memorable photo opportunity for their social media profiles. The Whaka Geothermal Trails are an ongoing reserve development, and new areas are continually being opened to be discovered. The trails are a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Zealand, and they provide great insight into Maori culture and the geothermal activity that is unique to the region.
While the Whaka Geothermal Trails are a self-guided tour, visitors can also opt for a guided tour of the Whakarewarewa Village, which is a more interesting and valuable alternative. The guided tour provides a more in-depth look at the village's history and culture and shows visitors the Pohutu Geyser, which cannot be seen on the self-guided tour. Visitors should note that the Whaka Geothermal Trails are not the only geothermal park in Rotorua, and there are many other parks to choose from, such as Wai-o-tapu, Waimangu, and Orakei. However, the Whaka Geothermal Trails are unique in that they provide exclusive access to an untouched geothermal landscape.
Visitors can also combine their visit to Whakarewarewa with a geothermal lunch or dinner, which is a great way to experience the local cuisine. In summary, the Whaka Geothermal Trails at Whakarewarewa Thermal Village are a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Zealand. The trails provide exclusive access to an untouched geothermal landscape, allowing visitors to experience the raw nature of Papatuanuku. Visitors can also learn about the history and culture of the Tuhourangi/Ngati Wahiao tribe and how they have been welcoming visitors to their village for generations. While the self-guided tour is a great option, visitors should also consider the guided tour of the village, which provides a more in-depth look at the village's history and culture.
Overall, Whakarewarewa Thermal Village is a unique and fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Maori culture and the geothermal activity that is unique to the region.