New Zealand mud festival

New Zealand’s first-ever Mudtopia festival will take place Dec. 1-3, 2017, in Rotorua on the North Island. Rotorua is home to many geothermal features, including the volcanic mud pools at Hell’s Gate, Wai-O-Tapu and Te Puia.

Mudtopia is being held at the Te Arawa Raceway in Arawa Park, on Fenton Street. Attractions and activities include live music, mud spas, an arena for “mud games” and a mud run. Outdoor showers and changing rooms are on site, with a free storage area where guests can each keep a clean change of clothes. 

Tickets are available at the door, and 3-day passes can be bought online in advance for NZD98.20 (near $73). Visit mudtopia.com.