Te Waikoropupu Springs (Pupu Springs) are among the largest freshwater springs of the world!
A scientific examination in 1996 the average black-body visibility was determined to be 63m. This is the highest yet reported for any fresh water, and close to the theoretical maximum for optically pure water.
The water of the springs is full of fish, like the swallows, brown trout and some salmon that escaped from nearby farms.
The largest basin of the spring has more than 40m across, but there are a number of smaller springs. The floor of the basins is covered with white sand, which is thrown up by the the force of the spring water. This dancing sands make it easy to determine where the vents are located. The springs have an enormous energy, especially the narrower vents. This is a result of the enormous amount of water, which is about 14,000 litres of water per second or 1,200,000m³ per day. This would be enough to supply a big city.
The water comes from the Takaka river and his tributaries, which flow over marble to the south of Pupu springs. The water enters swallow holes and flows through a huge cave system before resurging up to where you see it today.
To Maori the area of Te Waikoropupu is a taonga or treasure and a waahi tapu, a place held in high cultural and spiritual regard.
Pupu Springs is located in a beautiful bush area with very interesting walks.
Stay in Nelson at Kingsland Court Motel and explore our region 
