Waimangu Volcanic Geothermal Valley Rotorua
Waimangu Volcanic Valley Rotorua
Visit Rotorua's Most Amazing Geothermal Activity at Waimangu
Welcome to Waimangu Thermal Valley, one of Rotorua’s most awe-inspiring geothermal attractions. Nestled in the heart of New Zealand’s volcanic wonderland, Waimangu is the youngest geothermal system in the world, formed in the aftermath of the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption. This extraordinary natural destination offers visitors an unparalleled journey through geothermal landscapes filled with steaming craters, boiling hot springs, and vibrant silica terraces.
Explore the beauty of Waimangu’s unique geothermal features and enjoy activities such as walking trails, boat cruises on Lake Rotomahana, and birdwatching amidst lush native flora. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Waimangu Thermal Valley provides a captivating experience in Rotorua like no other.
Plan your visit to Waimangu Thermal Valley and discover the secrets of this incredible geothermal wonder. conveniently located 20 minutes south of Rotorua or 45 minutes north of Taupo.
Waimangu is open daily throughout the year between 8.30a.m and 5.00 pm (6 p.m. in January)
Waimangu Volcanic Valley – History
Set in serene New Zealand forest today, this amazing volcanic valley was born from the total devastation of a massive eruption.
The 1886 eruption of Mount Tarawera destroyed the surrounding area, taking with it many lives.
A 17-kilometre rift opened in the earth, Mount Tarawera split in two, Lake Rotomahana exploded to 20 times its size, and seven craters opened to form Waimangu Volcanic Valley.
Waimangu’ Volcanic Valley’s Significant Features
Waimangu Volcanic Valley is home to Frying Pan Lake, the world’s largest hot spring, and the mysterious Inferno Crater, an underwater crypto-geyser causing the lake levels to rise 
and fall and overflow on a cycle.
The area has unique botany, with specially thermally adapted to the environment.
Waimangu Courtesy Bus
Admission prices include a courtesy bus service.
At the end of your walk or cruise you can shuttle back up the valley to the Waimangu Visitor Centre where you’ll find the Waimangu Local Store & Café with a great selection of cabinet favourites, and a menu of brunch and lunch options including delicious home-style Pizza’s
Waimangu Volcanic Valley Experience Options:
Waimangu Geothermal Valley
The Full Waimangu Experience
Waimangu Geothermal Valley
Self-Guided Nature Walk & Hike
Entrance Price: $98 per adult – Children $34 pp – Family $241 ( 2A + 3C )
Duration: Allow 3+ hours to explore and experience this amazing piece of the world on foot and on water
The best way to discover everything the Waimangu Volcanic Valley has to offer.
Walk through the geothermal valley to Lake Rotomahana, where you’ll take a 45 minute boat cruise.
Learn about the history of Mount Tarawera and the Pink and White Terraces as you weave down the valley on walking and hiking trails around spectacular geothermal attractions.
Then cruise to the final resting place of the Pink and White Terraces and marvel at the unique lakeside geothermal geysers, steaming cliffs and features.
Entrance Price: $48 per adult – Children $17.50 pp – Family $115 ( 2A + 3C )
Duration: One Hour minimum
Distance: 1.5 Km’s to 4 Km walk – Complimentary bus shuttle between stops
Waimangu is a unique environment of natural beauty offering a range of eco focussed nature walks showcasing volcanic activity, geothermal features, unique botany, native plants and abundant bird life.
Free guide sheets in a wide variety of languages bring alive the features you discover as you walk through the valley.
Walks are predominantly downhill, range from 45 minutes to 4 hours and are suitable for all ages and levels of fitness.
Note that the Mt Haszard trail is steep and requires a good level of fitness.
Price includes return internal bus transport between points and back to the Waimangu Visitor Centre..
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