Most people have heard of Lake Rotorua, not so the near by Rotoiti. Connected to Lake Rotorua by a narrow canal, it is by no means the poor relation – a beautiful bush clad lake with a myriad of small bays. This is our quiet base for a few days – there are tui playing on the flaxes, houses in the distance surrounded by trees. I suspect at height of summer everyone is here with their boats, but in November it is quiet.
Lake Rotoiti Manupirua Springs
Nestled on the shores of Lake Rotoiti Manupirua Springs are hot pools set in an unspoiled haven, only accessible by water or air. I was here 40 years ago when the springs were simply a concrete box on the edge of the lake. Now there is plenty of parking for boats, 8 pools to choose from and a small shop and lots of outdoor seating. $25 honesty box fee, or if you come by water taxi, the cost is included. You can have a beer or a coke after your soak, or a hot pie.
For those included to cool off – there is a slide into the lake or a stand to do a manu from.
Catch a water taxi to Manupirua $75pp includes donation for using the pools, our captain Martin introduced us to stories of the lake as we travelled and it is worth every penny. This is a must!
