Hot Water Beach

Its name comes from underground hot springs that filter up through the sand between the high and low water tidal reaches.

Annual visitor numbers have been estimated at 700,000, making it one of the most popular geothermal attractions in the Waikato region.

The water, with a temperature as hot as 64 °C (147 °F), filters up from two underground fissures located close to each other.

[3] Care needs to be exercised as the location of the hot springs are not far from the sea even at low tide, and visitors may be caught unaware by the large breaking waves.

Hot Water Beach is known for its dangerous rip currents, holes and large waves.

Visitors making small pools by excavating sand
Looking northwards along Hot Water Beach in early winter
The location of the hot springs on Hot Water Beach in Coromandel