Discover how the world began at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the youngest geothermal system in the world.
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is located 20 minutes south of the Rotorua township, or 45 minutes north of Taupo, in the North Island of New Zealand.
Rotorua’s Untouched Geothermal Valley
Waimangu offers a range of self-guided geothermal walks through the craters of a majestic valley born from the might of the Mt Tarawera volcanic eruption in 1886.
As you stroll through the unique environment that is the Waimangu Volcanic Valley today, a wide variety of spectacular volcanic activity, thermal plants and bird-life will unfold before your eyes.
A number of easy geothermal walks are available, each following a predominantly downhill path.
If you crave more excitement the optional Mt Haszard hike demands a higher degree of fitness and will take you up above the valley floor to a panoramic view of the surrounding environment.
At the end of your walk you can choose to take our courtesy shuttle bus back up the valley to the Waimangu Visitor Centre at the valley entrance.
- Children: 6-16yrs. Under 6 Free. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult
- Open 8:30am every day. Last admission 3:00pm (4:00pm in January)
- Allow 1 hour for the shortest walks and up to 2 hours (2 & 1/2 hours if you include Mt Haszard) for the full walk.
- Departure times: Waimangu Volcanic Valley is open from 8.30am every morning, you can begin you self-guided walk anytime between 8.30am and 3.00pm
Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise
Embark on a journey through this extraordinary, untouched natural environment, preserved in its original state since its inception in 1886.
Lake Rotomahana, the youngest of New Zealand’s sizable naturally formed lakes, holds the distinction of being the nation’s original tourist attraction. In the 19th Century, eager travelers were drawn to Rotomahana to witness the legendary pink and white terraces, tragically lost in the eruption of 1886.
As one of the deepest lakes in New Zealand’s North Island, Rotomahana is designated as a wildlife refuge, hosting a myriad of birds throughout the year.
Along the southwest shoreline, enchanting geothermal springs and geysers offer a captivating display. Preserving its pristine beauty, Rotomahana stands as an enduring testament to New Zealand’s unspoiled natural wilderness.
The Boat Cruise can be enjoyed as a safe, tranquil and easy adventure, by itself or combined with the Valley walk.
Children: 6-16yrs. Under 6 Free. Children must be accompanied by a fare paying adult.
Check timetables for the Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise.
Waimangu Visitor Centre
Our on-site services include ample parking for all vehicles, easily understood interpretation guides in a wide variety of languages, full café food and drink service, an excellent range of New Zealand made gifts, modern bathrooms and an internal shuttle bus which returns you from the end of your walk and boat cruise to the Waimangu Visitor Centre at the valley entrance.
The History of Waimangu Volcanic Valley
In 1886, Mount Tarawera in Rotorua erupted, and destroyed the surrounding area. The massive eruption opened the earth along a 17km line, splitting Mount Tarawera in two, exploding Lake Rotomahana to 20 times its original size, and forming the seven craters that today make up the Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Today Waimangu is appreciated by discerning travellers from New Zealand and abroad, not only as a uniquely natural thermal area but also as a protected Scenic Reserve and Wild Life Refuge. As visitors walk through Waimangu Volcanic Valley’s craters and take the boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana they will view amazing geothermal activity and very important botany. Internationally significant features include the world’s largest hot water spring, sinter terraces and the unique inter-relationship between two huge hot springs simmering in Inferno Crater and Frying Pan Lake. In addition, several endangered plants exist beside the geothermal activity together with a host of thermally adapted plants.
