General Discussions

Following an introduction via a Forum Post from Outdoors Neil a few weeks ago, I decided to stop to relax and investigate the ' hot and cold stream ' - now that I have excellent directions from Outdoors Neil 😀 😀

I visited this swimming area on Waiotapu Loop Road South yesterday afternoon.

This stream, and Kerosene Creek, are approximately half way between Taupo and Rotorua.

The setting and the surroundings were indeed very splendid.

Rain falling, and it was relaxing to watch the impact as the rain hit the flowing water, to watch the fantails 'jumping around' from tree to tree, and the noise of the water falling over the rocks after it had past under the bridge.

I was able to feel short bursts of warm water from where I positioned myself in the stream. However, after a short time, I became a little cold - so I moved closer to the rocks to catch the cascading water after it had channeled itself underneath the bridge / roadway.

It was noticeably warmer in this spot, and more enjoyable for me too - as not only the additional warmth but also the flow of the water around my body as it past over the rock formation.

There is no question as to the beauty etc of the area. However, I personally do prefer a hotter temperature than was available to me yesterday ( perhaps that is why there was only myself and 2 other people present at the time ? ).

Eventually, I decided I needed more heat, so I drove up the road to the old classic favourite of Kerosene Creek . . . . . and very pleased that I did !

I am pleased that I did stop at this spot on Waiotapu Loop Road South - and I will stop again at some other time too ; although next time I will venture in the other direction to ascertain if feedback is correct and ' it is warmer up stream' !