Waikorupupu Springs, Takaka

## Overview Te Waikoropupū Springs (commonly known as Pupu Springs) near Takaka in New Zealand's Golden Bay region is one of the largest freshwater springs in the Southern Hemisphere and is renowned for having some of the clearest freshwater ever measured on Earth. Scientific studies conducted by the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) in the 1990s recorded underwater visibility of up to 63 metres — rivalling the clarity of distilled water. The springs discharge an estimated 14,000 litres of water per second from underground channels fed by the Arthur Marble Aquifer in the Tākaka Valley. The springs hold deep spiritual significance for the local Māori iwi, Ngāti Tama, and the wider Te Ātiawa confederation. In te reo Māori, the name "Te Waikoropupū" refers to the bubbling up of water, and the springs are considered a taonga (treasure) with powerful healing and spiritual properties. A rāhui (traditional restriction) was placed on the springs, and since 2019 the Department of Conservation has prohibited any contact with the water — visitors may not touch, swim in, or collect water from the springs. This protection reflects both the cultural significance of the site and the need to preserve its extraordinary water clarity. The water temperature remains a constant 11.7°C (53°F) year-round, and the springs are fed by rainwater that has filtered through marble and limestone over several years before emerging at the surface. The water has been noted for its exceptionally low levels of suspended particles, contributing to its remarkable optical clarity. ## Directions 1. From the township of Takaka, head north-west on State Highway 60 toward Collingwood. 2. After approximately 3 km, turn left onto Pupu Springs Road (signposted). 3. Follow Pupu Springs Road for roughly 2 km until you reach the car park at the end of the road. 4. From the car park, a well-maintained walking track (approximately 15–20 minutes each way) leads through native bush to the main spring viewing platform. 5. GPS coordinates: -40.840827, 172.773314. ## What to Expect The walk from the car park to the springs follows a gentle, well-formed gravel path through lush native bush, including rimu, kahikatea, and tree ferns. Interpretive panels along the track explain the geological and cultural history of the springs. At the main viewing platform, you'll look down into an astonishingly clear pool where you can see the "dancing sands" — fine sediment that appears to dance and swirl as pressurised water surges up from deep underground vents. The blue-green hue of the water is mesmerising, and on a calm day the clarity is almost surreal. Please note that **all contact with the water is prohibited**. Visitors must not touch, wade in, or collect water from the springs. This restriction is both a legal requirement under Department of Conservation management and a cultural rāhui upheld by Ngāti Tama. The springs are a sacred site and should be treated with the utmost respect. The track is accessible for most fitness levels, though it is unpaved and may be muddy after rain. There are no toilet facilities at the springs themselves, though basic facilities are available at the car park. The site is free to visit and open year-round during daylight hours. Early morning visits tend to be quieter and offer beautiful light for photography.