Literally heaven on earth!! After over a year of being closed due to landslides, I was beyond stoked when I heard that Te Waihou Blue Springs had finally reopened. You bet I added a few hours to my day to road trip up there, no way I was missing it. And wow, it did not disappoint. This place is pure magic, the kind of spot that makes you appreciate nature at its finest.

The proper car park is actually on Leslie Road, so make sure to head there when you arrive. From the car park, you follow a well-marked trail through lush forest and along the sparkling springs. The water here is insane, it’s the clearest I’ve ever seen, a vibrant turquoise that looks like something straight out of a dream. It's so pristine that it’s actually the source of clean drinking water for a lot of the surrounding areas, and it’s carefully managed to maintain its purity.

Walking along the trail, you can only get about 800 meters in before youll need to turn around as the rest of the path is closed off as I write this. Definitely check online if it’s reopened during your visit. Along the walk, you’ll be treated to peaceful views of the water flowing through the rocks, surrounded by lush greenery. The air is fresh, and the whole vibe here is just so serene. It feels untouched, like you’ve stumbled upon a paradise.

If you love nature, this place is an absolute must-visit. It’s one of those spots you’ll never forget. I’d recommend bringing a picnic blanket and some food to chill out and take in the views. Trust me, it’s one of those places where you could easily spend hours just soaking it all in.