Wai‑O‑Tapu (Māori for “sacred waters”) is an extraordinary geothermal park located about 27 km south of Rotorua, within the Taupō Volcanic Zone. Covering roughly 18 km², it’s famed for its vibrant geothermal features—including the iconic Champagne Pool, Artist’s Palette, boiling mud pools, and active steaming grounds. One of its most spectacular highlights is the Lady Knox Geyser, which erupts daily at 10:15 am with water jets reaching 10–20 m in height, triggered by adding a natural surfactant.