Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Flights — Volcanic Air.
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Flights — Volcanic Air.
“Take off from the Rotorua lakefront for scenic floatplane flights over crater lakes, geothermal valleys and Mount Tarawera.”
Rotorua Scenic Flights By Floatplane
Volcanic Air, located on Rotorua’s vibrant lakefront, invites you to experience the magic of floatplane scenic flights—the ultimate way to explore the geothermal and volcanic wonders of the Bay of Plenty. Take off and land on the serene waters of Lake Rotorua as you embark on an unforgettable journey through New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes.
Our Mount Tarawera scenic flights are among the most popular, offering breathtaking aerial views of the volcanic rift formed by the 1886 eruption, the colourful geothermal features of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, and the awe-inspiring White Island/Whakaari, New Zealand’s only active offshore volcano.
For adventurers, we also offer exclusive floatplane landings at Orakei Korako, the hidden gem known as the “Thermal Wonderland,” where you can explore geysers, mud pools, and silica terraces up close.
Every flight with Volcanic Air delivers panoramic views of Rotorua’s crater lakes, lush forests, and geothermal hotspots. Whether you’re seeking an adventure-packed exploration or a tranquil escape, our floatplane tours showcase the best of Rotorua from the air.
Check out our scenic floatplane flight options from Rotorua:
Aerial Views Over Six Crater Lakes
Price: Adults $235 per person
Price: Child (Age 2 – 11) $177
(flight operates with a minimum of 2 adult fares)
Departs: 9:00 am 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Duration: 15 minutes approx.
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Tour Highlights
- Thrilling floatplane takeoff and landing on Lake Rotorua.
- Unforgettable aerial views of Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and Rotorua City.
- Stunning panoramas of 12 crater lakes, including Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Rotokākahi (Green Lake).
- Unique perspectives of Mount Tarawera and its volcanic legacy.
Flight Itinerary
Begin your adventure with an exciting floatplane takeoff from Lake Rotorua, gliding effortlessly into the air for breathtaking views of the city and Sulphur Bay. As you ascend, the hidden lakes district reveals itself, offering incredible aerial perspectives of 12 distinct crater lakes nestled in lush native forests.
Fly towards Mount Tarawera, the towering dormant volcano that dominates the landscape, showcasing the dramatic beauty of Rotorua’s volcanic history. Along the way, admire the geothermal treasures of Waimangu Thermal Valley, including the vibrant blue Inferno Crater and the steaming expanse of Frying Pan Lake.
Complete your flight with a sweeping descent over Rotorua City, taking in views of the Whakarewarewa Thermal Reserve, before touching down gently on Lake Rotorua
Mt. Tarawera Explorer by Floatplane
Price: Adults $365 per person
Price: Child (Age 2 – 11) $274 pp
(flight operates with a minimum of 2 adult fares)
Departs: 9:00 am 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Duration: 30 minutes approx
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Tour Highlights
- Thrilling takeoff and landing on Lake Rotorua.
- Fly over the dramatic volcanic rift and craters of Mount Tarawera.
- Panoramic views of Rotorua’s hidden crater lakes, including Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Rotokākahi (Green Lake).
- Marvel at the geothermal wonders of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, featuring Inferno Crater and Frying Pan Lake.
- Soar above the Redwood Forest and Rotorua City.
Flight Itinerary:
Take off from Lake Rotorua and ascend over the shimmering waters of Sulphur Bay. Fly above the region’s stunning crater lakes, including Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Rotokākahi (Green Lake), their vivid colors shining through the surrounding native forest.
As you approach Mount Tarawera, marvel at the massive 8-km volcanic rift and deep craters left by the catastrophic 1886 eruption, one of New Zealand’s most significant volcanic events. This bird’s-eye view reveals the raw power and beauty of the region’s volcanic history.
Continue your flight over the geothermal landscapes of Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world’s youngest geothermal park. Highlights include the vibrant blue waters of Inferno Crater, the expansive Frying Pan Lake, and steaming cliffs.
Your journey concludes with a scenic descent over the lush Redwood Forest, Rotorua City, and Mount Ngongotaha, before landing back on Lake Rotorua.
Mt. Tarawera/Orakei Korako
Price: Adults $745 per person
Price: Child (Age 2 – 11) $559 pp
(flight operates with a minimum of 2 adult fares)
Departs: 9:00 am 12:00 pm
Duration: 150 minutes approx
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Tour Highlights
- Thrilling takeoff and landing on Lake Rotorua and the Waikato River.
- Fly over Mount Tarawera, Waimangu Valley, and Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park.
- Experience the vibrant geothermal features of Orakei Korako, including silica terraces and geysers.
- Enjoy a 1-hour self-guided geothermal tour of Orakei Korako.
- Scenic return flight over farmland, the Paeroa Mountain Range, and Rotorua City.
Flight Itinerary:
Take off from Lake Rotorua and ascend above Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and the vibrant crater lakes of the region. Soar over Mount Tarawera, its volcanic rift and craters vividly showcasing the dramatic legacy of the 1886 eruption.
Continue southward over Waimangu Volcanic Valley and Wai-O-Tapu Geothermal Park, marveling at the Champagne Pool, Artist’s Palette, and other geothermal wonders.
Descending along the Waikato River, experience a thrilling water landing at the Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako, one of New Zealand’s most beautiful geothermal parks. Step ashore for a 1-hour self-guided tour, exploring bubbling mud pools, steaming geysers, and massive silica terraces. Enjoy a coffee or snack at the on-site café before boarding your floatplane for the return journey.
Your return flight offers stunning views of lush farmland, the Paeroa Mountain Range, and Rotorua City, concluding with a smooth lake landing back at our city lakefront pier.
White Island/Mt Tarawera Adventure
Price: Adults $1030 per person
Price: Child (Age 2 – 11) $773 pp
(flight operates with a minimum of 2 adult fares)
Departs: 9:00 am 12:00 pm
Duration: 85 minutes approx.
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Tour Highlights
- Thrilling floatplane takeoff and landing on Lake Rotorua.
- Panoramic views of Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and Rotorua City.
- Fly over the Bay of Plenty, passing Mt. Edgecumbe (Putauaki) and Whakatane.
- Circle Whakaari/White Island, New Zealand’s most active marine volcano.
- Aerial views of Mount Tarawera’s volcanic rift and craters.
- Soar above Waimangu Volcanic Valley, featuring Inferno Crater and Frying Pan Lake.
Flight Itinerary:
Your adventure begins with an exciting takeoff from Lake Rotorua, soaring over Rotorua’s vibrant crater lakes and lush landscapes. Fly toward the coast, where you’ll pass Mt. Edgecumbe and Whakatane before reaching the Bay of Plenty’s coastline.
The highlight of your flight is circling Whakaari/White Island, where you’ll witness its steaming vents, crater lake, and volcanic activity up close. On the return journey, marvel at the volcanic beauty of Mount Tarawera and the colorful geothermal features of Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Conclude your journey with a smooth landing back on Lake Rotorua.
Rotoiti Thermal Pools by Floatplane
Price: Adults $495 per person
Price: Child (Age 2 – 11) $372 pp
(flight operates with a minimum of 2 adult fares)
Departs: 9:00 am 12:00 pm & 2:00 pm
Duration: 2 Hours approx.
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Tour Highlights:
- Thrilling floatplane takeoff and landing on Lake Rotorua and Lake Rotoiti.
- Stunning views of 12 distinct crater lakes, including Tikitapu (Blue Lake) and Rotokākahi (Green Lake).
- Aerial perspectives of Mount Tarawera, with its dramatic volcanic backdrop.
- 90 minutes of relaxation at the secluded Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools, only accessible by water.
- Expert commentary on Rotorua’s geography, history, and cultural heritage.
Flight Itinerary:
Your adventure begins with a scenic floatplane takeoff from Lake Rotorua, soaring over Rotorua’s hidden lakes district, including Tikitapu (Blue Lake), Rotokākahi (Green Lake), and Lake Tarawera. Marvel at the region’s lush native bush and volcanic landscapes, with Mount Tarawera standing proudly in the background.
The journey continues to Lake Rotoiti, where you’ll land at the secluded Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools, one of Rotorua’s best-kept secrets. Spend 90 minutes soaking in seven geothermal pools, cooling off in the lake, or enjoying refreshments.
Reboard your floatplane for a short and scenic flight back to Rotorua City, passing over the Ohau Channel and Mokoia Island, before a smooth landing on Lake Rotorua.
Lake Side Picnic By Floatplane
Price: Adults $440 per person
Price: Child (Age 2 – 11) $330 pp
(flight operates with a minimum of 2 adult fares)
Departs: 12:00 pm
Duration: 90 minutes approx.
Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Tour Highlights:
- Thrilling floatplane takeoff and landing on Lake Rotorua and Lake Rotoiti.
- Enjoy a private beach picnic at a secluded Lake Rotoiti location.
- Stunning aerial views of Rotorua’s lakes district, including Mokoia Island, Sulphur Bay, and Mount Tarawera.
- Perfect for romantic getaways, family outings, or special celebrations.
Flight Itinerary:
Take off from Lake Rotorua for a scenic flight over the crater lakes, lush forests, and volcanic terrain. Land at a secluded beach on Lake Rotoiti, where you’ll have 70 minutes to relax, swim, fish, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Pack your own picnic or opt for a gourmet grazing platter (available at an additional cost). After your getaway, reboard the floatplane for a scenic return flight over Ohau Channel, Mokoia Island, and Rotorua City, before landing back on Lake Rotorua.
Why Book This Tour?
- Combines adventure and relaxation with a private beach experience.
- A unique way to celebrate a special occasion or enjoy quality time with loved ones.
- Offers exclusive access to one of Rotorua’s most picturesque spots.
FAQ: Rotorua Floatplane Scenic Flights (Volcanic Air)
Where do floatplane flights depart from?
Rotorua lakefront (city pier). Your confirmation includes the exact meeting point, check-in time and pre-flight notes.
How long are the floatplane flights?
Short scenic loops run about 15–30 minutes. Landing experiences (e.g., Ōrākei Kōrako, hot pools, lakeside picnic) run 90–150 minutes including time on the ground.
What will we see from the air?
Crater lakes (e.g., Blue & Green Lakes), Mount Tarawera’s eruption rift, geothermal valleys (Waimangu/Wai-O-Tapu) and Rotorua City. Some routes include a White Island/Whakaari flyover.
Do any tours include landings?
Yes. Selected experiences land at Ōrākei Kōrako (geothermal walk), Lake Rotoiti Hot Pools, or a secluded lakeside picnic spot. Landing time is included in the tour duration.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable layers and closed shoes; sunglasses recommended. Bring a camera/phone with a strap. Swimwear/towel for hot pools or lakeside picnic.
Is this suitable for first-time or nervous flyers?
Yes. Floatplane takeoffs/landings are smooth and scenic. Let the crew know if you’re nervous—simple tips and seating help with comfort.
Are there age, weight or seating limits?
Yes. Seating is arranged for safe weight balance. Please provide accurate passenger weights at booking; infants/children follow aviation safety rules.
What happens if the weather isn’t suitable?
Safety and visibility come first. Your flight may be delayed or rescheduled to a better window. If flying isn’t possible that day, the team will help you rebook.
Is there a minimum number of fares required?
Most flights operate with a minimum of two adult fares. If you’re solo, the team will try to combine you with another booking where possible.
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