Atiamuri: Geothermal Activity, Lake and Trails

Atiamuri can be explored for travel planning through two themes: the geothermal landscape at Whangapoa Springs and trails around Lake Atiamuri and along the Waikato River. Consider whether you are more interested in the springs and sinter, or in routes and their features. The following places and routes offer specific points of reference to help you make that choice.

Geothermal activity and sinter at Whangapoa Springs

The Atiamuri geothermal system comprises three chloride springs in an area used for farming. Of the three known hot alkaline chloride springs, two are currently depositing sinter; they are known as Whangapoa Springs. Extensive historic sinter deposits are found around the springs. This landscape therefore offers both current sinter formation and older deposits to explore.

Whangapoa Springs are in a small Department of Conservation (DOC) reserve, near the intersections of Ohakuri Road, Matapan Road and Ngautuku Road. The DOC is restoring the native vegetation and springs there. Geothermal activity, sinter and vegetation restoration together shape the character of this place.

The Whakamaru Trail and trails along the Waikato River

The Whakamaru Trail is 26 kilometres long and graded as difficulty level 3, or intermediate. It starts at the boat ramp on the shore of Lake Atiamuri. From the starting point, there are panoramic views of the tranquil-looking lake, surrounded by forest. The distance and grade answer different questions: the kilometre count describes the length of the route, while the grade indicates its level of difficulty. You can therefore consider these details separately.

Shortly after the start, the trail reaches Atiamuri Power Station and runs alongside a 171-metre-long concrete dam. From the station, it continues to Atiamuri Road Bridge, where it crosses the river. The route description thus links the lakeshore, power station, dam and river crossing in a specific sequence of landmarks.

The Waikato River Trails also start in the south, in the village of Atiamuri. This varied network of trails offers mountain biking, walking and running, and follows the Waikato River from the village in the south to the southern end of Lake Karapiro in the north. Whereas the Whakamaru Trail is described by its length and difficulty grade, the Waikato River Trails are characterised mainly by their different activities and route.

Landmarks in the surrounding area

Te Kōhatu-o-Hatupatu is near Atiamuri, beside State Highway 1, about 26 kilometres south of Tokoroa. Mt Pohaturoa is also nearby. The mountain is visible from State Highway 1 near Atiamuri Bridge and overlooks a lake formed by the Atiamuri hydroelectric power station. It rises 240 metres above the river and reaches an elevation of 520 metres. The rock’s position beside the road and the view of the lake from the area around the bridge are distinct points of reference for the landscape around Atiamuri.

More things to explore in the South Waikato District

The wider destination of the South Waikato District has its own regional attractions beyond Atiamuri’s springs and trails. The NZ Timber Museum is just south of Putāruru on State Highway 1. It was founded in 1927 to celebrate, document and preserve the history of the timber industry, particularly in the South Waikato District. Its focus is the history of New Zealand’s timber industry.

In Tokoroa, the Talking Poles represent the town’s different cultures, clubs and organisations. The collection consists of carved poles, with sculptures in the town centre created for locals and visitors. The Arapuni Suspension Bridge is another regional landmark on the Waikato River, downstream from Arapuni Power Station. These examples add cultural and landscape attractions in the South Waikato District to your travel planning.

Discover more destinations: Okere Falls, Reporoa, Waikite Valley, Lake Tarawera, Hamurana, Rotorua, Mourea

Go to the wider travel guide: Rotorua District.