Orakei Korako Geothermal Park

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Accessed via a short ferry ride, the Orakei Korako Geothermal Park is perhaps the best thermal area in the country, with more active geysers than anywhere else in New Zealand. The park’s 35 active geysers erupt unpredictably, with the most famous Diamond Geyser, shooting boiling water up to 9 meters for anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. While you’re not guaranteed an eruption, wandering the park you’ll be treated to plenty of boiling, steaming, and bubbling from the many springs and mud pools, in shades of ochre and grey. Be sure to pay a visit to the Ruatapu Cave, which tunnels nearly 40 meters into the volcanic tuff down to the jade-green 'Waiwhakaata' or 'Pool of Mirrors'.