The best things in life are free, and that is certainly the case for the hidden beauty of Kerosene Creek in New Zealand. A thermal river runs over an old lava flow, and here visitors can relax under warm waterfalls in two naturally-heated pools.

The surprising thing is that this natural wonder, though popular with locals, is hardly mentioned in the tourist guidebooks distributed in the region; and scarcely honoured with a few lines in the Lonely Planet. Maybe that's because Kerosene Creek, truly is off the beaten track, requiring a drive down a dirt road to a barely visible wooden marker; and then a short hike through a pine forest. Nevertheless, a hot soak in Kerosene Creek's beautiful and secluded pools on a slightly chilly day, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of the ferns and pines, was completely worth it. Only a few other visitors joined us, and all of us were awed by the rare opportunity to bathe in this natural hot spring.

Many travellers in New Zealand pass through the thermal area of Rotorua, and spend their time visiting pool after pool of lukewarm thermal water pumped into grimy concrete bathtubs or reheated in private pools. Although there are some nice pools and spas which can be visited at a price, they must wonder where all the natural hot springs are. That is—if they haven't yet discovered the hidden gem of Kerosene Creek. You won't find billboards advertising this little out-of-the-way river; nor is it often mentioned by locals who perhaps want to keep the secret to themselves. Kerosene Creek is not privately owned, and therefore hasn't fell victim to the tourist train. With a rental car, the river is easily accessible and is definitely one of the most memorable experiences you can have in New Zealand.

Kerosene Creek is located about 30 km south of the city of Rotorua, and is part of the Rotorua area on New Zealand's North Island. The area is known for its geothermal attractions, which include geysers, hot mud and hot springs (of course). Rotorua is also known as the heartland of the aboriginal Maori who migrated to New Zealand from their Polynesian homelands hundreds of years ago. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the North Island, and hiking, biking, rafting and camping in thermally-heated campgrounds are all available. Whether you enjoy sky-diving, lamb-petting or soaking in a hot tub, Rotorua has something for everyone.

While the temperature of Kerosene Creek may vary, visitors are usually able to swim there throughout the year.

To get to Kerosene Creek, you can drive south on the highway about 30 km from Rotorua towards Taupo. After passing Rainbow Mountain, turn onto Old Waiotapu Road (an unpaved track). Start your odometer. After driving 2.2 km, stop at a small grassy area with a wooden sign warning visitors not to immerse their heads underwater (in case of rare thermal microbes in the water). The narrow trail through the forest leads you to Kerosene Creek, where there are two pools with waterfalls. You can also bathe (somewhat less easily) in the river itself. Despite its name, Kerosene Creek only had a mild sulfuric smell when we visited—nothing too bothersome.

Do not leave valuables in the car as there have been reports of car break-ins in the past. Also, there are no changing rooms, so make sure you are ready to bathe when you leave the car. Other guests and children often walk around the area barefoot, so please consider their comfort and clean up any garbage or glass bottles you may have brought.

A great way to visit New Zealand is to rent a small car at a very affordable price, especially for a stay of one week or longer. A range of hotel and hostel options are available, but in the summer months a fun and outdoorsy way to travel is to bring or buy a tent and stay in the many campgrounds (called "holiday parks" in New Zealand). On cold nights, most holiday parks have cabins and rooms available at reasonable rates; some of which are very cozy and include their own camp kitchen. Shared kitchens are also common at campgrounds should you have the urge to cook your own meal. Come prepared with a sleeping bag and camp pillow as you will usually have to provide your own bedding.