2 Best Sights in East Coast and the Volcanic Zone, New Zealand

Located 15 km (9 miles) east of Rotorua, Hell's Gate is arguably the most active thermal reserve in the area. Its 50 acres hiss and bubble with steaming fumaroles and boiling mud pools. Among the attractions here is the Kakahi Falls, reputedly the largest hot waterfall in the southern hemisphere, where, according to legend, Māori warriors bathed their wounds after battle. Warm mud pools are available for public bathing; at the Hellsgate Mud Spa, you can soak in a mud bath or try a mirimiri (a traditional Māori massage).

If you fancy a soak in a hot pool then follow the marked path from the car park beside t to the thermally heated Otumuheke Stream where its mineral water meets the Waikato River. You will see locals soaking under the waterfalls and natural rock pools so feel free to join them. If you are not in a soaking mood continue on the trail to see views of the river as it heads down to the thundering Huka Falls.