Waimangu Volcanic Valley Rotorua
Waimangu Volcanic Valley
The world's youngest geothermal system.
Other Areas Rotorua
The world's youngest geothermal system.
Other Areas Rotorua
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The 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera destroyed the surrounding area and created the seven craters that today make up Waimangu Volcanic Valley, the world's youngest geothermal system. The eruption opened the earth along a 17 kilometre rift, splitting Mt Tarawera in two and exploding Lake Rotomahana to 20 times its original size. Today you can walk through the craters of this premier Rotorua tourist attraction and take a boat cruise on Lake Rotomahana to view the amazing geothermal activity and important botany in this area of national and world significance. |
| Waimangu offers a range of mainly down-hill, ecology focused walks that showcase a wide range of geothermal activity, native forest, bird-life and thermally adapted plants. See Echo Crater and Frying Pan Lake, the world's largest hot water spring. View mysterious and dramatic Inferno Crater with its beautiful blue and steaming hot lake. Allow 1 hour for the shortest walk and up to 2 hours to walk from the Waimangu entrance through to the Lake Rotomahana Jetty. The advanced Mt Haszard hiking trail provides spectacular views of the valley but does require good fitness. Check our interactive map for an overview of our walks. |
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We also offer several guided sightseeing tours which include transport from your Rotorua accommodation. Half and full day tours of the thermal area and a relaxing cruise on Lake Rotomahana, a wildlife refuge and site of more beautiful geothermal features. For groups of 10 or more, we offer special prices, English-speaking guides free-of-charge and can provide meals. We cater for groups of all sizes and interests, including school groups. |
| Waimangu is a year-round eco-experience able to be enjoyed by people of all ages and physical abilities. Our courtesy Shuttle Bus runs through the valley on a regular basis returning you from the end of your walk and boat cruise to the Visitor Centre. Open daily from 8.30am, all year. On-site services include ample on-site parking, easily understood interpretation, guide sheets in a wide variety of languages, a modern café with full food and drink service and a gift shop with an excellent range of quality gifts. Waimangu Volcanic Valley is just 20 minutes south of Rotorua, and 40 minutes north of Taupo. |
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| Phone numbers: | 64 7 366 6137 |
| Fax: | 64 7 366 6607 |
| Address: | 587 Waimangu Road off SH5 (main Rotorua - Taupo highway) Rotorua |
| Qualmark Rating: | Endorsed Visitor Activity |
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