75. Waikoropupu Springs. (Pupu Springs)

The largest, clearest and most popular of New Zealands freshwater springs, situated just 10 minutes from Takaka. In the Waikoropupu Valley, the river has eroded through caprock and the underground water, at great pressure, has burst through and formed Pupu Springs. The water emerges filtered and pure, a process which can take up to 10 years. The basin containing the main spring is only 42m across, but by using a system of mirrors two scientists were able to test the visual clarity of the water. The result was a stunning 62m of horizontal visibilty, reputed to be the clearest freshwater in the world. Millions of litres of clear water pour from the springs eight vents at a constant temperature of 11.7C. This activity does little to disturb the thriving koura or the delicate weeds and mosses which are well adjusted to the flow.