Te Puna Wai Ora (Spring of Life), Wellington, New Zealand

## Overview Te Puna Wai Ora — the "Spring of Life" — is a beloved public artesian water source located in the Hutt Valley region of Wellington, New Zealand. The spring draws from the Hutt River's artesian aquifer, a deep underground formation composed of layers of sand, gravel, boulders, and clay, sealed in by confining layers of clay and silt. Water enters the aquifer system several kilometres upstream at Taita Gorge, then travels slowly seaward through the Hutt Valley's alluvial sands and gravels over a period of years, undergoing extensive natural filtration along the way. Because of this prolonged underground journey, the water that emerges at Te Puna Wai Ora has been reported to be free of microorganisms, organic substances, and other contaminants. It has long been regarded as one of the purest naturally filtered water sources in the greater Wellington region, and many locals and visitors consider it excellent drinking water in its natural, untreated state. The spring is so highly valued that some consumers travel considerable distances specifically to fill containers here for personal use. The name "Te Puna Wai Ora" reflects the deep cultural significance of fresh water in te ao Māori (the Māori worldview), where natural springs are often considered taonga (treasures) and sources of life-giving sustenance. The spring remains a popular community gathering point for those who prefer naturally sourced artesian water. ## Directions 1. The spring is located in the Hutt Valley area of Wellington, New Zealand. 2. Using GPS coordinates **-41.226603, 174.881873**, navigate to the site via your preferred mapping application. 3. The spring is publicly accessible and situated in an area frequented by locals collecting water — look for people with bottles and containers as a helpful landmark. *Note: These directions are approximate. If visiting for the first time, using the GPS coordinates in Google Maps or a similar app is recommended.* ## What to Expect Te Puna Wai Ora is a public artesian spring with a steady, reliable flow of water. Visitors typically arrive with bottles, jugs, and large containers to fill. The water is cool and clear, emerging under natural artesian pressure from the deep aquifer below. The spring can be busy, particularly on weekends and during warmer months, as it attracts a loyal following of regular visitors from across the Wellington region. Expect to wait briefly if others are filling large containers ahead of you. Bring your own clean containers — there are no cups or bottles provided on-site. The area around the spring is generally well-maintained, reflecting the community's respect for this valued water source. As with any natural water source, conditions can change over time, so visitors may wish to check with local council updates regarding water quality before consuming.