Yes, we understand this used to be free. However, the property was recently restored to the Maori tribe whose land it used to be. They now maintain it and rightly charge for entry. For those who say it's a 20 minute walk, I'd say they missed the magic of the place and didn't stop to enjoy the surroundings or learn much about what they were experiencing. The redwood forest feels like being in a cathedral, the dancing sands spring is magical, the clear water of the stream is amazing, bird life abounds. It was one of the favorite places we visited in Rotorua - happy to let others frequent the commercialized and higher cost places that mix nature with water rides, etc.