Tokaanu: Thermal Pools, Culture and Nature

Tokaanu lies at the southern tip of Lake Taupō, by a stream near the mouth where the Tongariro River flows into the lake. Natural hot springs and mud pools define the area, which is part of the active Taupō Volcanic Zone. The springs and mud pools are also part of a long history of Māori use.

The Tokaanu Thermal Walk

The Tokaanu Thermal Walk is at the southern end of Lake Taupō in the village of Tokaanu. It passes steaming hot mineral pools in sinter basins and bubbling mud pots amid native bush. The combination of geothermal features and bushland shapes this particular nature experience. The walk is considered a good option for children and families, and can provide a shared focus for a trip.

Māori and local history

For centuries, Māori have used Tokaanu’s natural hot springs and mud pools for therapeutic bathing, cooking and bleaching harakeke (flax) for weaving. These different uses connect the geothermal area with everyday life and craft. The local Māori group Ngāti Kurauia has lived by the Tokaanu Stream and in the geothermal area since the 16th century.

Another aspect of the area’s history is the Church of the Immaculate Conception, built in Tokaanu by Father Kreijmborg. It adds a distinct historical connection to the story of geothermal use and Ngāti Kurauia’s long-standing relationship with the area.

Cold stream, steam and birdlife

Rainbow trout are often seen in the cold Tokaanu Stream beside the geothermal area. The contrast between cold water and geothermal heat offers a different perspective from the view of the hot pools.

At the nearby Steaming Cliffs of Hipaua, columns of steam rise from forested slopes. Native kāhu, or swamp harriers, make use of the warm air currents there. Alongside the hot pools and cold stream, this offers another opportunity for nature watching in the area.

More places to explore in the Taupo District

The Tongariro River Trail is another activity in the Taupo District. The full loop is 13.2 km long and can be started at the Tūrangi isite. Anglers, dog walkers and mountain bikers share the trail; cyclists must give way to pedestrians. Unlike the Tokaanu Thermal Walk, the focus here is on shared use of the trail and a stated route length, while the Tokaanu walk centres on geothermal nature.

The Great Lake Pathway starts at Taupo Boat Harbour. It is mostly flat and offers a family-friendly outdoor experience. This provides families with a different setting from the Tokaanu Thermal Walk, which is considered a good option for children and families and passes hot pools and mud pots.

Tongariro National Park is also a highlight of the Taupo District. It is one of New Zealand’s three World Heritage Sites; its dual World Heritage status recognises significant Māori cultural and spiritual associations. The Tongariro Alpine Crossing lies within the dual World Heritage area.

Discover more destinations: Kinloch, Iwitahi, Wairakei, Mangakino, Oruanui, Turangi, Taupo, Waihaha

For the main travel overview: Taupo District.