Kerosene Creek

This hot spring oasis is sort of two-faced. On one hand Kerosene Creek can be the most beautiful, unique, and soothing place in the country…other times it can be a disgusting, rowdy, burglaryprone annoyance. K-Creek’s natural setting is unsurpassed—a 40-degree knee-deep stream snaking through a fern jungle before spilling over two small waterfalls…ahhhhh.

The issue here is how PEOPLE choose to interact with this slice of paradise. Kerosene Creek is no secret to tourists—it’s been written up in Lonely Planet for years. Tourists seem to treat the experience here with reverence, often visiting NZ from countries where hot springs are considered meditative places. Many Kiwis seem to hold a different attitude, enjoying K-Creek as a kickass spot to rage and get on the piss. Of course this isn’t every Kiwi! Hopefully this guide will help attract more people who want to share Kerosene Creek as a serene experience of nature’s grace.

Here’s some observances:

• Car break-ins are frequent. Burglars pull up and can be in and out of your car (and trunk) in seconds. It’s best to carry all $$, cameras, passports—EVERYTHING, down to the springs.
• There’s no peace or quiet on weekend nights.
• Expect some nudity near dawn and dusk.
• Bring a sack to help pick up other people’s litter.