New Zealand’s freshwater springs are places of mysticism and magic. Sacred to the Maori people, these springs are like liquid crystal, and are said to be inhabited by Taniwha Hinerua, or water monsters similar to ghosts. Whether you can feel their presence or not, it is important to remember that these sites are ecological treasures which must be preserved. Let’s take a look at all that awaits in these pristine waters.
Hamurana Springs
With brilliant green patches of aquatic plant life nestled into a turquoise blue background, Hamurana Springs is the deepest natural freshwater spring on New Zealand’s North Island. It is located nine kilometers from Nicara Lodge, northeast of Lake Rotorua. Before pushing its way up through the volcanic rock, the 4.5 million liters of water per hour that it emits take 70 years to make their way through underground aquifers.
Situated 280 meters above sea level, and about 15 meters deep, the Springs flow into a stream filled with rainbow trout before finally reaching Lake Rotorua. Surrounded by a grove of coastal redwood trees which were planted here and which are not indigenous to the area, the area is located in the center of a wildlife sanctuary where you can see scaup, herons, black teal, and dabchicks, along with other waterfowl.
In order to dive here, you must first obtain permission from the owners. Be warned – the water is very cold, at just 7 degrees Celsius, and if you go near the main vent, which is hidden beneath a ponga canopy, you will find yourself buffeted by the current, among coins tossed in for wishes that alternately rest on ledges and dance before your eyes. Rainbow trout love the swift water and are here in abundance, but don’t think you’ll be able to photograph them, since you’ve got to hang onto the rocks to stay in position.
Waikorupupu Springs
Commonly known as Pupu Springs, Waikorupupu Springs consists of a basin about 42 meters across. The water here is so clear that you can easily see from one side to another, and there is a constant current so strong that the large rocks near the vent vibrate as millions of gallons force their way up from the aquifer below.
While you can usually dive here with permission, check with Blenheim Dive Center or Motueka Sports Center to see if diving is permissible. There are often restrictions due to dangerous Didymo microorganism threats, and conservation is a priority. The nearby Dancing Sands Spring is completely off limits to any type of swimming or diving.
If you are allowed to dive Waikorupupu Springs, you’ll find that the temperature is just over 11 degrees Celsius, so be prepared for a shock. This ice cold water originates in the tall forests that blanket the mountains above, and it travels through miles of limestone to finally make its way to this spring, and eventually, to complete its journey out to sea. The entire journey takes between three and eight years to complete.
Home to brown trout, welcome swallows, and a few salmon, Pupu Springs is a beautiful place to see, even if you find that diving is out of the question when you visit.
Diving in New Zealand’s springs is a rare privilege, so be sure to obey the rules to the letter in the event you are allowed to explore these mystical underwater worlds. Be sure to learn more about the area’s history and ecology, and you’ll come away with a new appreciation for nature’s magic.