2025 Tapapa Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

New Zealand's lakes and mountains are beautiful, but her rivers seem not so stunning; in the North Island, apart from the atmosphere that runs through Waikato, the most famous is the Blue Spring hidden near the region. The spring water of Blue Spring comes from the Mamaku Plateau, and it takes 50-100 years to filter to the surface layer by layer, so the spring water is extremely pure and clear and will present a heart-stirring blue. Two entrances to Blue Spring 1. The northern entrance is on Whites Road, along the Te Waihou walkway, locate to Te Waihou (Whites Road) Car park, from here to the Blue Spring LOOK OUT is about 4.5 kilometers; 2. The southern entrance is on Leslie Road, locate to blue spring Leslie road carpark, it's less than a kilometer to Blue Spring. Both entrances have parking lots, where you can park for free.

🌿 If I could only visit one place on New Zealand's North Island, it would be Blue Spring! The spring water here is known as "The Earth's Last Tear," and its blue hue is magical! Today, I've compiled the most comprehensive guide on the Internet, revealing hidden gems that 99% of tourists miss! (There's an exclusive photo tip at the end!) 🌟 Part 1 | Must-Knows Before You Go! Fun Facts about Blue Spring ✅ The Mystery of the Source: 2,160 liters of pure water gush out every minute at 42°C! It's said that 70% of New Zealand's bottled water comes from here. ✅ The Tiffany Blue Secret: Silicate rock layers at the bottom + light refraction create a "blue sapphire sparkle" effect when direct sunlight hits at noon. ✅ Māori Legend: The spring water is the tears of Tāne, the god of creation. Drinking it grants courage (⚠️ Officially not recommended for drinking). 🕒 Part 2 | When is the Best Time to Visit? ⏰ Golden Hours: ▫️ 9-11 am: Misty and ethereal, fewer crowds, perfect for photos. ▫️ 12-2 pm: Sunlight penetrates the water, revealing the ultimate blue. ▫️ 4-6 pm: The setting sun paints the maple leaves amber, creating stunning reflections. 📆 Seasonal Guide: 🍃 Spring (Sep-Nov) | Lupin flowers bloom along the banks. 💦 Summer (Dec-Feb) | Water temperature is suitable for wading (in designated areas). 🍁 Autumn (Mar-May) | Golden-red maple leaf tunnels. ❄️ Winter (Jun-Aug) | Light frost in the morning complements the blue spring, creating a magical atmosphere. 📸 Part 3 | 4 Must-See Photo Spots 1️⃣ TikTok-Famous "Underwater Tree" (Coordinates: -37.9195, 175.8003) ▫️ Take photos from the wooden viewing platform. A white dress and straw hat are recommended. ▫️ On sunny days, there will be a starburst effect on the water surface. Remember to bring a polarizing filter. 2️⃣ Blue Spring Heart Waterfall ▫️ Use a slow shutter speed to capture silky smooth water flow. iPhone users can convert Live Photos to long exposures. ▫️ Rainbow mist can be captured in the afternoon backlight. 3️⃣ Monet's Garden-like Water Lily Pond ▫️ Hidden at the Leslie Road entrance. A telephoto lens of 85mm or more is recommended. ▫️ Wait for the moment when blue damselflies land on the lilies. 4️⃣ 1.5km Secret Glass Waterway ▫️ Wear transparent sandals! Shots of water flowing over your ankles are super healing. ▫️ Aerial view resembles an emerald necklace. Altitude limit is 120m. 🎁 Part 4 | Hidden Gems Known Only to Locals 🔥 Dawn Exclusive Plan Book a private tour in advance (search Blue Spring Twilight Tour) and enter the reserve before sunrise for a chance to see the rare blue duck (whio). 🧚♀️ Fairy Afternoon Tea Have a picnic at the end of White Road. Recommendations: - Salmon sashimi (chilled in the spring water!) - Sauvignon Blanc wine - Traditional Māori dessert, Pavlova 🌌 Blue Spring Stargazing Join a dark night tour during the new moon each month. The reflection of the stars on the water is even more magical than Lake Tekapo! (Requires a professional guide). 🚗 Part 5 | Transportation and Accommodation Guide 🚙 Self-Driving Route (from Auckland): Day 1: Auckland → Blue Spring (2.5 hrs) → Rotorua (1 hr) Day 2: Hobbiton → Waitomo Glowworm Caves ⚠️ Note: The last 3km of Leslie Road is gravel, so be cautious if driving a sedan. 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations: ▪️ Glass Treehouse | Blue Spring Country Lodge (wake up to the view of the spring) ▪️ Carriage B&B | The Caboose (a 19th-century vintage carriage, perfect for photos) ▪️ Water Tent | Te Waihou Glamping (fall asleep to the sound of the spring) ⚠️ Part 6 | Lessons Learned 1. Wear non-slip shoes! The flagstones are often covered in moss. 2. There are no trash cans along the way, so bring a reusable bag. 3. Drones are prohibited (unless you have a permit). 4. Cleaning and maintenance take place on Wednesday mornings, so avoid visiting then. 5. The water temperature near the spring can reach 20°C, so be careful of burns. 🎉 Ultimate Bonus | Exclusive Photo Tips 👗 Outfit Formula: White + straw elements > macaron colors > black 💄 Makeup Tip: Add blue glitter to your cheekbones to match the spring water. 📱 Filter Settings: Xingtu - Strong Sunlight +50 | HSL Blue Saturation +20 | Color Temperature -15 🌍 More New Zealand Hidden Gems 👉🏻 Click on my profile to see "Hobbiton Photography Guide" and "South Island Glacier Helicopter Selection Guide." 💌 Follow me to unlock 99 niche travel destinations around the world!

#newzealandtrip I discovered a slice of paradise at the Blue Springs in Putaruru, New Zealand. The crystal-clear waters, surrounded by lush native bush, created a tranquil ambiance that calmed my mind and soul. As I walked along the winding paths, the gentle flow of the spring-fed stream and the songs of native birds serenaded me. The vibrant blue color of the springs was mesmerizing. This hidden gem is a must-visit for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape.

#newyearnewtrip As I stepped into the Putaruru Blue Springs, I felt as though I'd entered a mystical realm. The crystal-clear waters, fringed by lush native bush, created an atmosphere of serenity and wonder. With each gentle step along the winding walkways, I felt my worries dissipate. The springs' radiant blue hue was nothing short of enchanting. This hidden gem is a must-visit for anyone seeking a tranquil and unforgettable experience amidst nature's splendor.

Here is a guide to visiting Blue Spring on the North Island: Best time to visit • All year round: Blue Spring is open all year round, and due to its unique natural landscape, each season has its own charm. Summer is sunny and perfect for hiking and enjoying the natural scenery; winter may be relatively monotonous in color, but you can still enjoy the tranquil beauty of Blue Spring. Transportation • Self-drive: From Auckland, the journey is about 200 km, with two routes to choose from, both of which are about the same distance and time. Blue Spring is located at the southern end of the Te Waihou Walkway, and most visitors can drive there. • Public transportation: For non-self-driving visitors, you can use a charter service, which is relatively safe and worry-free. Ticket information • Free admission: Blue Spring is a free attraction, and visitors can visit at any time. Attraction features • Extremely pure spring water: The spring water of Blue Spring comes from the Mamaku Plateau and is filtered through layers for 50-100 years before reaching the surface, making it extremely pure and clear, with a breathtaking blue color. 70% of New Zealand's bottled water comes from here. • Rich hiking trails: The Blue Spring hike takes about an hour and a half one way, starting at Whites Road (State Highway 28) near Putaruru, or from Leslie Road, which is a shorter walk, taking only 15 minutes one way to reach Blue Spring. The trail is easy and flat, passing through wetlands and pastures, and you will also see small waterfalls, native forests, and other natural scenery. • Observation deck: At the LOOK OUT observation deck at Blue Spring, you can get a close-up view of the most charming scenery of Blue Spring, with dense aquatic plants in the river, showing thousands of colors under the sunlight. Itinerary planning • Short trip: If you are short on time, you can enter from the Leslie Road entrance, which takes only 15 minutes one way to reach Blue Spring, and then enjoy the beauty of Blue Spring at the observation deck. • Full hike: If you have plenty of time and love hiking, it is recommended to start from the north entrance and walk the entire 5 km Blue Spring trail, where you can enjoy more natural scenery along the way. Notes • Clothing: It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. If you plan to go into the water, remember to bring a swimsuit and sunscreen. • Environmental protection: During your visit, please follow the park's rules, do not litter, and protect the natural environment. Also, respect the wildlife and do not disturb their natural life. • No swimming: Although the water quality of Blue Spring is very pure, in order to protect the natural ecology of Blue Spring, the government has banned swimming in Blue Spring. I hope this guide will help you better plan your trip to Blue Spring on the North Island and enjoy this pure natural beauty.

🔈Good news! After more than a year of waiting, the Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway) in Waikato on the North Island will partially reopen on December 5! So if you're planning to visit New Zealand, you can add it to your travel list~📑 ⚠️The Leslie Rd entrance is open, and the entire trail is expected to be fully open in February next year. Blue Spring Trail Details】 📍Navigate to Blue Spring (Te Waihou Walkway) 🅿️Leslie Road Scenic Area Parking Lot (this is the only entrance at the moment) 🕘Opening hours: Open all day 🎫Tickets: Free 🏁Entrance starting point: ①Whites Road🅿: Take Highway 28, this hiking route takes about 1.5 hours one way, 4.7 km one way plus 0.5 km loop trail ②Leslie Road🅿: This is a shorter walking route, taking only 15 minutes one way to reach the Blue Spring - 🚘Transportation Guide 🌊Blue Spring is located in Putaruru, a small town between Hamilton and Rotorua in the central North Island ❶189 km from Auckland🚗about 3 hours ❷About 30 km from Matamata, where Hobbiton is located ❸67 km from Hamilton🚗1 hour - In addition, the Cathedral Cove Walk, famous for being the location of the Windows desktop and the filming location of the movie "The Chronicles of Narnia," will officially reopen on December 1. (📍Coromandel, North Island) Notes❗ 1️⃣It is recommended to wear comfortable sneakers, as some parts of the road are a bit slippery 2️⃣If you drive to Whites Road parking lot, it is closer to the Blue Spring 3️⃣It is recommended to go in the afternoon, as the sun is stronger in the morning, and the light is softer in the afternoon, making the photos look better

| A Clear Poem of Dreamy Water Auckland Blue Spring | A Clear Poem of Dreamy Water When I stepped into this pure land, I felt like I had entered a fairyland. The azure spring water is crystal clear, and the sand, stones, and swaying water plants at the bottom are clearly visible, like a pair of lively eyes opened by the earth, pure and free of any impurities. The sunlight shines down, and the water surface sparkles like tiny diamonds, with each ray of light telling the tranquility and beauty of this place. Walking along the path by the spring, you are surrounded by lush trees, like loyal guards holding the Blue Spring tightly in their arms. The occasional bird song further highlights the tranquility here, as if it were a beautiful symphony played by nature. Breathing in the fresh air that seems to have been cleansed, I feel my body and mind healed. The water here comes from deep underground, gathering into this intoxicating blue after a long journey. The spring water meanders, forming small waterfalls and pools, with the gurgling water sounding like the laughter of elves, gently echoing in your ears. At the Blue Spring, you can choose to sit quietly by the shore, letting your thoughts drift away with the water; or you can put on a swimsuit, jump into the cool water, and get close to nature, feeling the refreshing coolness enveloping your whole body. Whether it's taking photos or enjoying a moment of tranquility, Blue Springs can satisfy all your imaginations of beauty.

Good news! After more than a year of waiting, the Blue Spring Trail in Waikato on the North Island has partially reopened from December 5! So if you're planning a trip to New Zealand, be sure to add it to your travel list~📑 ⚠️The Leslie Rd entrance to the trail is open, and the entire trail is expected to be fully open by February next year. - Blue Spring is known for its crystal-clear waters and is one of the purest water sources in the world. About 70% of New Zealand's bottled water comes from here, earning it the nickname "New Zealand's Jiuzhaigou." The spring water comes from the Mamaku Plateau and is filtered through layers for 100 years before reaching the surface, making it extremely pure and clear, with a breathtaking blue color. The water plants growing freely at the bottom of the spring create a dreamy blue-green color, described as if God had spilled Monet's palette.🎨 - [Blue Spring Trail Details] 🕘Opening hours: Open all day 🎫Tickets: Free 🏁Starting point: ①Whites Road🅿: Take Highway 28, this hiking route takes about 1.5 hours one way, 4.7 km one way plus a 0.5 km loop trail ②Leslie Road🅿: This is a shorter walking route, taking only 15 minutes one way to reach Blue Spring - [How to get there] 🌊Blue Spring is located in Putaruru, a small town between Hamilton and Rotorua in the central North Island. ❶189 km from Auckland🚗about 3 hours ❷About 30 km drive from Matamata, where Hobbiton is located ❸67 km from Hamilton🚗1 hour - In addition, the Cathedral Cove Walk, famous for being the location of the Windows desktop and the filming location of the movie "The Chronicles of Narnia," also officially reopened on December 1. (📍Coromandel, North Island)

#photolocation I visited Blue Spring in New Zealand, and it was an incredible experience. The spring is famous for its strikingly clear, vibrant blue waters, which are some of the purest in the world. Surrounded by lush greenery, the setting is breathtaking. I took a leisurely walk along the nearby trails, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the diverse plant and animal life. The water’s clarity allows for fascinating glimpses of the underwater world, and I learned about the spring's significance to the local Māori culture. If you're in the area, Blue Spring is a must-see—it's a true testament to New Zealand's natural beauty.

Fall in love with the wind over this wilderness. 🇳🇿New Zealand, a country known as 'the last piece of oasis on Earth', attracts the gaze of countless travelers; it boasts unparalleled natural beauty🍃 and unique culture, making one feel as if they are in a fairy-tale world From the North Island to the South Island, every step is a picture-perfect scene, marveling at the natural wonders; whether exploring the magnificent scenery of the Southern Alps🏔️ or wandering the mysterious world of glaciers, it brings an unprecedented shock and emotion🌬️ 12-day itinerary for the North and South Islands: ❶Auckland FreeDay ❷Auckland > Blue Spring > Hobbiton > Rotorua ❸Rotorua > Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland > Auckland ❹Christchurch FreeDay ❺Christchurch > Oamaru ❻Oamaru > Dunedin > Invercargill ❼Invercargill > Bluff > Te Anau ❽Te Anau > Milford Sound > Queenstown ❾Queenstown > Arrowtown > Wanaka > Queenstown ❶⓪Queenstown FreeDay ❶❶Queenstown > Mount Cook > Tekapo ❶❷Tekapo > Christchurch Traveling in New Zealand, getting close to nature, and feeling the magic of the world✨ No matter the way, it will make you rediscover the connection between yourself and nature, and feel the beauty and infinite possibilities of life♥️

Mountain hiking, accidentally entered Pandora and watched "Avatar" countless times. I never thought there would be a place that fulfilled my dream of Pandora. I, who always love to hike with headphones and listen to music, couldn't help but take off my headphones! Completely immersed in nature. Birds chirping, insects buzzing, a few butterflies fluttering over the water, an unknown white bird gliding diagonally across the sky, and a few ducks leisurely passing by. These scenes that seem to be in a painting or a dream suddenly appeared before my eyes, just like the Peach Blossom Spring I fantasized about in middle school Chinese class, as if I were watching a science fiction movie. This is not real. I was stunned for a while and picked up my phone to take pictures and record, but more importantly, I wanted to imprint these scenes in my mind. I stared at the clear and color-changing Qi blue water, the blue spring shining like a sapphire. My environmental mood reached its peak. Finally, I understand why foreigners are so passionate about environmental protection. If the place I love is about to be polluted, I will swear to defend the land I love to the death. Before coming to New Zealand on a WHV, my stereotype of New Zealand was just grasslands and pastures, but as I explored deeper, I found that I love this place even more! Blue Spring Putaruru There is a free parking lot at the entrance. You can hike up and see the Blue Spring in about 15 minutes on foot.

We hiked up from the car park to see the blue springs. Along the way beneath the big trees, there were these beautiful words in the stones. Life is too short for trivial things. Cherish the moment before it’s too late :) #lifeisgood

There are many tourists, many Indians and Chinese. If you go to Blue Spring, be sure to walk into a corner at a downhill bend to see it. Almost no one goes there, but it is the most beautiful corner in my eyes.

There are many tourists, many Indians and Chinese. If you go to Blue Spring, be sure to walk into a corner at a downhill bend to see it. Almost no one goes there, but it is the most beautiful corner in my eyes.

New Zealand's lakes and mountains are beautiful, but compared to them, its rivers may not be as stunning. Apart from the majestic Waikato River that runs through Waikato on the North Island, the most famous river is the Blue Spring near Putaruru. The Blue Spring is the purest water source in the world. New Zealand mineral water is bottled here, and the water here can be drunk directly. The spring water here comes from the Mamaku Plateau and is filtered through layers of rock for 50-100 years before reaching the surface, making the water extremely pure and clear, and presenting a breathtaking blue color. From Auckland to the Blue Spring, there are two routes to choose from, both of which are about 200 kilometers in distance and time. The Blue Spring is located at the southern end of the Te Waihou Walkway, and tourists can drive there to visit it, combining it with Hobbiton or Rotorua on the itinerary. For non-driving tourists, charter services are available, which are relatively safe and worry-free. The Blue Spring Trail, which is 5 kilometers long (distance from the north entrance to the south entrance), is worth visiting. The entire route is relatively flat with a small slope. For those who lack physical strength, you can enter from the south entrance and return after reaching the Blue Spring LOOK OUT platform. If you want to experience more beautiful scenery and get closer to nature, I strongly recommend starting from the north entrance, walking all the way past the Look out platform, passing through the stone poetry area, and finally taking photos at what I believe is the best photo spot before returning. Of course, if your friends bring you or you use a charter service, it is best to depart from the north entrance and leave from the south entrance. Ask the driver to drop you off at the north entrance and pick you up at the south entrance. This way, you only need to walk about 5 kilometers to enjoy the entire scenery. Along the way, there are green spaces, small bridges, cows and sheep, flowing water, and beautiful blue sky and white clouds. Of course, if the driver can drive to the other end and wait for you, it would be even better, eliminating the trouble of walking back and forth, and the entire journey will be reduced to 5 kilometers.

In the middle of Matamata and Rotorua there is a very lovely tin town of Tirau (TIRAU), which, like other towns in New Zealand, has its own distinctive features in addition to animal husbandry and tourism. The town people who love life, cleverly use the corrugated iron as a decorative material. A variety of cute cartoon characters, even God is made of iron, super fun! The number one attraction is a building called a sheep and a dog. It is actually a tourist souvenir shop in the middle of the town. It has been made into a huge and lovely sheep with wavy iron. It has been more than 20 years old. Slowly become a landmark for tourists to take pictures. Others began to emulate, and built a giant shepherd-like tourist consultation center next to the big sheep, and then the shepherds who used the wavy iron to echo the sheep and the dog. If TIRAU is still famous for its tin construction, then the small town of Kihikihi that passes by is not a feature. But we met the town's annual dog contest! The main people come to the competition with their own dogs. The dogs must complete a series of obstacles such as jumping, drilling, climbing, and can not touch any obstacles, and finally decide the outcome by time. Residents have put the dogs dressed in water, smooth and beautiful, and divided into primary, intermediate and advanced groups to pull out pk, the scene is very lively. We spent a lot of time watching it.