Te Waihou Walkway - Blue Springs, Putaruru, New Zealand

## Overview Te Waihou Walkway — commonly known as Blue Springs — is one of New Zealand's most visually stunning freshwater springs, located near the town of Putaruru in the South Waikato region. The springs feed the Waihou Stream (historically known as the Thames River in its lower reaches) with water that has been naturally filtered through volcanic rock for an estimated 50 to 100 years before emerging at the surface. This extraordinarily long filtration process produces water of remarkable clarity, with visibility reportedly reaching up to 63 metres — among the clearest freshwater in the world. The springs discharge approximately 42 cubic metres of water per minute at a near-constant temperature of around 11°C (52°F) year-round. The vivid blue colour of the water is created by the exceptional clarity and the way light refracts through the pure, mineral-filtered flow. Roughly 70% of New Zealand's commercially bottled water has historically been sourced from the Putaruru area, a testament to the quality of this aquifer. Locals and visitors have long regarded the spring water as exceptionally pure drinking water, and it has been used as a freshwater source for generations — though, as with any natural water source, conditions can vary. The walkway is managed by the New Zealand Department of Conservation (DOC) and is a popular destination for both locals and international visitors. The surrounding landscape features lush native bush, watercress beds, and a gently flowing stream that creates an almost surreal, otherworldly atmosphere. ## Directions 1. From Putaruru, head south on State Highway 28 (Tirau Street) and turn onto **Whites Road**. 2. Follow Whites Road until you reach the **Whites Road car park**, which serves as the main access point for Te Waihou Walkway. 3. For a better experience, continue upstream to the **Leslie Road entrance** — from Whites Road, head to nearby **Leslie Road** where there is an additional car park closer to the springs themselves. 4. Starting from the Leslie Road end is recommended, as it places you upstream and allows you to walk downstream along the 4.7 km (one-way) track toward the Whites Road car park. This direction offers the best views of the springs as you approach them. 5. GPS coordinates: **-38.018929, 175.813962** *Tip: If walking the full track one way, you can arrange a car shuttle between the two car parks, or simply walk the track as an out-and-back from either end.* ## What to Expect Te Waihou Walkway is a well-maintained, mostly flat walking track that follows the Waihou Stream for approximately 4.7 kilometres one way. The path is accessible to the general public and suitable for most fitness levels, with a mix of boardwalks, gravel paths, and grassy sections winding through native bush and farmland. The highlight of the walk is the main Blue Springs area, where crystal-clear water wells up from underground, creating an almost impossibly blue stream. The continuous flow of the springs means the water looks spectacular in all seasons and weather conditions — even on overcast days, the blue hue is vivid and photogenic. Along the walkway, you'll pass through stands of native trees, cross small bridges, and see abundant watercress growing in the stream — a sign of the water's purity. Birdlife is plentiful, and the atmosphere is peaceful and serene. **Important notes:** - Swimming and wading in the springs are **not permitted**, as this protects the fragile ecosystem and water quality. - The track can be muddy in places after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. - There are no facilities along the track itself, so bring water and anything else you may need. - The walkway is open year-round and there is no entry fee. - Allow approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the one-way walk, depending on your pace and how long you spend photographing the springs. For more information, visit the [Department of Conservation page for Te Waihou Walkway](http://www.doc.govt.nz/parks-and-recreation/tracks-and-walks/bay-of-plenty/rotorua-lakes/te-waihou-walkway/).