Waitangi Soda Springs

Welcome to the Waitangi Soda Springs on Facebook.

These springs are a natural geothermal springs located off the beaten track and nestled amongst nature near Lake Rotoiti, Rotoehu and Rotoma. The pools are managed by the Waitangi 3 Trust on behalf of the lands 1200 beneficiaries. The springs are an important part of the history of local tribes Ngati Tamateatutahi Kawiti, Ngati Te Rangiunuora and Ngati Pikiao whanui. Historically the springs have served as a resource for healing, relaxation, wananga (educational forums),economic opportunities, food preparation and preparation of weaving materials.
The springs have always been used while the block was cultivated. The old people talked about winter as the time they tended to live there and bathe regularly. By then crops were harvested and stored, fish and birds were cured or dried so that there was time to relax and think about the future. This was also time for wananga to celebrate Matariki. Waitangi was ideal in this respect as they observed the stars as they bathed. Young people were taught astronomy, how to calculate times and seasons, foretell the productivity of crops, how to navigate or just to retell stories or customary practices.
Many also recall being brought to Waitangi by their kuia and koroua (grandparents) for medicinal purposes. Their recollections are that Waitangi was for ailments like arthritis and muscle and joint problems.
The springs are unique amongst Rotorua's geothermal pools for a number of reasons.
* It's one of the only pools that have maintained much of its natural features and surrounds.
* The hot waters that feed the pools contain a different mineral make up to many other pools in the region, resulting in a more relaxing and warming experience that gets through to your bones.
* The pools are renowned for their ability to alleviate arthritis, joint problems and other ailments. It continues to be used by locals for these healing powers.
* The pools continue to be used by owners as a source of healing, bathing and relaxation. In this sense it is a unique opportunity for the public and visitors to experience a pools that is still 'living' part of local culture.
* The pools is a means of providing employment and economic opportunities for descendants of local tribes
* The pools are a respected treasure for the indegenous people of these lands and will be protected and enhanced for future generations

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Noho ora mai ra,
Waitangi Soda Springs