Things to do at Hell's Gate

Hell's Gate (Tikitere) sits about 16 km north-east of Rotorua on the SH30, roughly 20 minutes by car. It is the most active geothermal park in the area and the only one where you can get into a mud bath rather than just look at one.

The sulphur smell is stronger here than at any other park in the region, and the ground is a grey, cracked mineral landscape rather than manicured walkways. A standard walking-track visit takes around an hour to 90 minutes; add the mud bath and spa package and plan on two to three hours.

Entry with the spa combo runs into the hundreds of NZD per person, so check current tiers before booking. Bring old clothes or a swimsuit you don't mind staining.