Waimangu Volcanic Valley

Waimangu Volcanic Valley, in Rotorua, New Zealand, is the world's youngest geo-thermal system, the only one wholly created within written history,and which can be pinpointed to an event - the 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. Walk or hike through pristine New Zealand bush, past volcanic craters, interactive thermal activity between Frying Pan Lake and Inferno Crater, rare plants regenerating from total devastation,  hot springs, newly regenerating silica terraces and abundant exotic bird-life.

Waimangu offers easy, ecology-focused walks and tours through the beautiful Waimangu Volcanic Valley, following a predominantly downhill path. Walk beside a hot water stream and see silica terraces forming in the Valley: the cream and gold Marble Terraces and the Warbrick Terrace, its delicate ripple terraces so reminiscent of the destroyed Pink & White Terraces.

The advanced Mt Haszard hike high above the Valley floor requires good fitness but is well worth the effort. You'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Valley and surrounding region, including Rainbow Mountain, Mt Tarawera and Lake Rotomahana. Towering lava cliffs plunge deep into Fairy Crater, and massive lava outcrops and steaming pink and red soil frame the Raupo Pond and Black Craters.

Take our courtesy shuttle bus back to the Waimangu Entrance, or join a cruise on Waimangu's Lake Rotomahana to see a separate geothermal system of steaming cliffs, hot springs, geyers and fumeroles.  his relaxing 45 minutes cruise with full commentary reveals sights that can be viewed only from our cruise.

Lake Rotomahana is the deepest lake in the North Island and newest of all New Zealand's larger, naturally formed lakes.  The unspoilt, tranquil beauty of the lake and its surrounding environment are protected from development, and form a wildlife refuge for large numbers of birds all year round.  And out in the middle of the lake is Patiti Island, currently being restored by Waimangu Volcanic Valley Ltd to a predator-free state and an eventual sanctuary for endangered New Zealand native birds.

For the Walking Tour and Boat Cruise allow approximately 3 hours. Ensure you dress for the weather, including good walking shoes.