The most beautiful spot. A thermal stream meets the river about 10 minutes walk from the car park. Pick your own temperature by going closer or further from the water falls. Have a few beers in the water and meet some locals or other visitors. Lovely! And free!

This was cool, and free. It was nice to go for a swim in the river, it is just a short walk down to the swim area with cool views. Probably best to go when there are not so many people, it was fairly crowded while we were there. Everyone was really friendly and made room for others to experience... More

This is a great little spot but it is a fair walk from the carpark to the swimming spot so not suited to those unstable on their feet or with limited mobility see note below. Wear your swimsuit under your clothes as there is no where to change etc and beach shoes would be an advantage on the slippery rocks... More

Don't pay to experience a thermal spa - take a walk to this natural hot spring instead! You won't get the luxuries like a shower but nothing can beat relaxing in the water overlooking the river, watching the steam rise and feeling the earth beneath your feet. It is a short walk (and all uphill on the way back). Carpark... More

We visited at about 6pm on a damp rainy evening so just walked down for a look around. We didn't think anyone would be around given the weather. Think again. A hot spring feeds straight into the Waikato river meaning that where the hot water mingles with the cold water there is a lovely spot to bathe in. Yes and... More

We had no idea about this spot, and were tipped off from the front desk guy at Brawdshaw's Lodge in Taupo. We were going to go the the Spa Thermal Park and pay, but he suggested the Riverbank Recreational Reserve. I would recommend you do the walk first, about 2 hours, then take a dip in the natural "hotpool" in... More

A great experience. The spring is hot & the river cold & in between some areas that are breathtakingly cold underneath & warm on top. A fun experience. Just take care there can be broken glass & theft so keep an eye on your gear. The gates lock so check out the times if you are driving there.

It's a perfect place in a sunny day, just for relax. You can stay in warn water, or just lay on the law and relax.

This place is amazing, if only Parks in the UK were anything like this. A hot river runs towards the main river in Taupo. Here at Spa Park, is where the hot and the cold rivers meet. Where the hot water comes out it forms a small hot pool area, where many locals come to bath in all weather. The... More