Overview
Hell's Gate (Tikitere) is Rotorua's most active geothermal area, with boiling mud pools, steam vents, and a hot waterfall showcasing raw geological power. George Bernard Shaw reportedly named it 'Hell's Gate' after visiting. After walking the geothermal trail, visitors can enjoy New Zealand's only geothermal mud spa — coating yourself in volcanic mud before soaking in a sulfur hot spring, said to benefit the skin. Walking trail NZD 40, mud spa combo NZD 95. About 15 minutes by car from the city center.
Opening Hours
Daily 08:30-20:00 (mud spa: 09:00-19:30)
Travel Tips
The mud spa is a must-try — coating yourself in volcanic mud before a sulfur soak is a unique experience. Bring a swimsuit and towel.
Hotels near Hell's Gate (Tikitere)
Hotels and guesthouses in Rotorua, Tikitere, Rotorua
Other attractions in Rotorua
Te Puia Geysers
A geothermal site where Pohutu, the Southern Hemisphere's largest geyser, shoots up to 30 m high.
Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland
A geothermal wonderland of brilliantly colored hot springs and mud pools.
Redwoods Forest
Walk among towering Californian redwoods on the popular suspended Treewalk.
Lake Rotorua
A massive volcanic crater lake accessible directly from the city center.
Polynesian Spa
A world-renowned natural geothermal hot spring spa on the shores of Lake Rotorua.
Skyline Rotorua
Ride a gondola up for luge runs and zipline adventures — a top Rotorua activity.
Tamaki Maori Village
A cultural tour through a traditional Maori village with haka performances and a hangi dinner.