Hell's Gate All-Inclusive: Walk, Mud Bath & Spa Tickets

Soak in geothermal mud pools, relax in sulphur spas, and explore Rotorua’s legendary Hell’s Gate on this self-guided day trip.

Getting started

Begin your experience at the main entrance of Hell’s Gate Geothermal Reserve, where your entry is validated. After a brief orientation, you’ll receive access to the mud and sulphur bathing areas, as well as the geothermal walking tracks.

What to expect

This renowned geothermal park is celebrated for its unique volcanic landscape and deep Māori cultural roots. The reserve features New Zealand’s largest hot waterfall and mud volcano, making it a site of both natural wonder and historic healing.

Features

• Geothermal mud pools: Bathe in nutrient-rich mud pools, once used by Māori warriors for their restorative properties.

• Sulphur spas: Relax in warm sulphur pools, known for their soothing effects on skin and muscles.

• Geothermal walks: Choose from three marked tracks (0.6km, 1.5km, 2.0km) to view mud volcanoes, steaming cliffs, and the dramatic Kakahi Falls.

• Native bush walk: Wander through bushland enriched by geothermal activity, home to rare mosses and the iconic silver fern.

• Māori carving experience: Observe or try your hand at traditional Māori carving, a living art form that shares the stories of the land and its people.

Know before you go

What to bring

• Bring old or dark-colored swimwear, as sulfur pools and mud baths may stain lighter fabrics.

• Bring a towel and a change of clothes for after your bath.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven and potentially slippery geothermal paths.

• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your visit.

• Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at the entrance.

What’s not allowed

• Do not enter pools or areas that are marked as too hot or acidic for bathing.

• Stay on marked paths at all times for your safety, as the earth’s crust can be thin and hazardous.

• Large bags, suitcases, and oversized luggage are not permitted inside the reserve.

• Pets are not allowed, except for registered service animals.

• Alcohol, drugs, and any form of intoxication are strictly prohibited on the premises.

• Outside food and beverages are not permitted; meals and drinks are available for purchase at the on-site café.

• The mud baths are restricted for guests under 2.5 years; the sulfur spa is restricted for those under 6 months. Children under 12 are restricted from participating in the Māori carving experience.

Accessibility

• This experience is not fully wheelchair accessible due to uneven terrain and natural geothermal features.

• Some tracks and bathing areas may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.

Additional information

• The mud bath has a time limit of 20 minutes once a day for health and safety reasons.

• Remove all jewelry (especially silver) as the chemicals in the mud/water will cause tarnish. Wait 24–48 hours before putting it back on.

• Some features, such as the Mud Footpool, may be temporarily unavailable.

• Not all pools are suitable for bathing; please follow on-site signage and staff instructions.

• Participation in Māori carving or geothermal cooking experiences may require advance booking or incur additional charges.

• Children must be supervised at all times due to geothermal hazards.

• The geothermal environment has strong sulfur smells, which may be intense for some visitors.