Diamond Geyser Taupo, New
Zealand Spews Up Geothermal Show

Some of New Zealand’s geothermal surrealism are found in The Hidden Valley, an isolated spot between Taupo and Rotorua, at Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park. This undeveloped geothermal reserve is far off the beaten path and not accessible without transport, but it’s worth the effort to get there.

The geothermal system, protected from further development, is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful thermal environments, and considered by many to be more impressive than that which is found in Rotorua.

Lonely Planet Guide calls “Orakei Korako… possibly the best thermal area left in New Zealand and one of the finest in the world.” Rotorua draws the crowds, but the region’s real natural wonder is this hidden gem — perfect for enthusiasts of New Zealand outdoor activities.

The Maori name “Orakei” refers to white adornment, which describes the glittering sinter flat. Amist boiling mud pools, beautiful caves, multicolored lakes, and intense sulphur fumes lie dramatic stepped silica sinter terraces surrounded by 35 active geysers.

The most famous of these is Diamond Geyser Taupo New Zealand, which is prone to unpredictable yet frequent eruptions lasting anywhere between several minutes and hours, spouting boiling water as high as 9 meters.

While not the largest spewing feature of the thermal park, Diamond Geyser Taupo, New Zealand renders sparkling water that bubbles away down its side, reminiscent of the name. The boiling water jet shatters millions of water droplets sparkling like diamond in the sunlight.

This fountain releases intermittently every few minutes, unlike its famed Lady Knox Geyser counterpart in Rotorua that needs a soapy laxative.

Diamond Geyser is reached via crossing the wooden walkway over Emerald Terrace, a colorful mineral base mix of golds, oranges, browns, and whites emanating from chemicals extracted from the ground by rising steam and water. When not erupting, Diamond Geyser Taupo, New Zealand is a steamy vent.

Diamond Geyser Taupo, New Zealand is just one of the other worldly environmental features of this geothermal wonderland. The BBC’s “Walking With Dinosaurs” was filmed at Orakei Korako because of the thermal park’s prehistoric feel. Entrance into the park is via shuttle boat across an idyllic lake.

Colorful mineral terraces, scalding hot cyan pools, spurting geysers – including a fascinating horizontal one – and a spectacular cave that shows off a sparkling chemical pool from its mouth, make this adventure on your New Zealand vacation tour a must visit.