Morere Hot Springs

Tucked away in native bush just off SH2, Morere Hot Springs offers a serene thermal soak in a lush rainforest setting. The mineral-rich waters emerge at 41°C and feed a series of pools, from a large main pool to private cedar tubs, all surrounded by towering trees and the calls of native birds. It’s a restorative stop that feels worlds away from the coast, yet it's only a 20-minute drive north of Gisborne city.

Highlights & What to See

• Main thermal pool – a large, family-friendly pool fed by natural hot springs, perfect for a long soak amid the bush.
• Private cedar hot tubs – for a more intimate experience, book one of the secluded tubs overlooking the forest.
• Bush walks – short trails lead through the surrounding native reserve; keep an eye out for kererū and tūī.
• Cold plunge pool – a bracing contrast to the hot pools, set alongside a stream.
• Gisborne City – the nearby city offers wineries, surf beaches, and the iconic Tairawhiti Museum.
• Eastland – the remote coast to the north features dramatic cliffs, lonely beaches, and the East Coast Lighthouse Walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours soaking and strolling the short bush trails. If you’re on a road trip, it’s an ideal 45-minute detour from the main highway, but you could easily linger for a half-day, combining a soak with a picnic lunch. For a deeper experience, consider an overnight stay at the on-site lodge.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gisborne City – 20 minutes south, with its famous wineries, surf breaks at Wainui and Makorori, and the riverside Farmers’ Market.
• Eastland – the rugged coastline north of Gisborne, including the remote beaches of Tolaga Bay and the East Cape Lighthouse.
• Rere Rockslide – a natural waterslide on the Rere River, about 40 minutes inland – great for a fun afternoon.
• Te Urewera – the vast native forest and lake district, about 1.5 hours west, offering hiking, kayaking, and the chance to experience Ngāi Tūhoe culture.

Please check official sources for current details.