Top Experiences in Mt. Tarawera

Discover Rotorua on a unique 90-105 minute sightseeing adventure on-board a WWII amphibious vehicle able to travel on land and water! Our tours leave at regular intervals from a central city location and explore Rotorua's most stunning scenery. We have 18 lakes in the Rotorua region all set within lush native New Zealand bush. Our tours are fully guided as well with our tour guides covering everything from Maori migration, geothermal history, history of Rotorua and much more.

Experience “Volcanic Extremes” flying over the active crater of “Whakaari” White Island before landing on the now dormant but extremely spectacular summit of Mount Tarawera.
Both of these volcanoes are of significance, Whakaari more recently for the devastating 2019 eruption and Mount Tarawera for the much larger 1886 eruption considered to be the largest in New Zealand’s living memory. Different in the extreme, Whakaari is an active marine volcano and changes its activity on a daily basis while far inland Mount Tarawera stands impressively above its central North Island landscape. The mountains now dormant but no less impressive craters and domes are evidence of the massive eruption that shaped this area. Views from the Mountains summit are breathtaking, not only for the volcanoes deep craters but also for commanding vistas of the surrounding region.

Fly high over breathtaking volcanic landscapes on an unforgettable 30-minute seaplane flight from Rotorua. See New Zealand's world-famous volcanic scenery as you fly over spectacular Mt. Tarawera, the Blue and Green Lakes, and the gurgling geysers of Whakarewareewa Thermal Reserve. Flying at a time to suit you, this scenic air tour will fit into even the busiest of itineraries.

Fly over the site of the largest eruption in New Zealand’s living memory, Mount Tarawera, and gain an appreciation of how the 1886 eruption changed this stunning landscape. From Mount Tarawera to the Waimangu Volcanic Valley, view the eruption trail and surrounding Lakes district whilst enjoying informed commentary from your experienced local pilot/guide, continuing your experience on your floatplane scenic flight, fly towards lake Rotoiti.

Landing on the lake we’ll taxi to the pier where you disembark, your Eden awaiting. Only accessible by water, the hot pools are in a secluded bay on the shores of Lake Rotoiti. Seemingly disconnected from the world, this is where you’ll spend 90 minutes, with your only concerns being which pool to experience next. Take your time soaking, cool off in the lake, rest a bit on a lounger and repeat before returning to the Rotorua City Lakefront.

Voted our most popular Tour - This tour is perfect for people wanting a full day sightseeing this diverse area including Mt Maunganui and Rotorua with a focus on the geothermal area of Whakarewarewa, "The living Maori Village." Enjoy a 40 minute concert emphasizing the deep and colourful Maori culture  with song dance and stories.

On the way to Rotorua, marvel at beautiful beaches and multimillion dollar homes, before a 45 minute drive from the coast slowly ascending up the central plateau, through Kiwifruit plantations (we plan to stop so you can see these vines full of fruit but not ripe yet) and typical NZ pastoral farmland to our furthest inland destination, Rotorua. Take in the most popular sites of interest - Blue & Green lakes, view Mt Tarawera (erupted 1886) across the most gorgeous lake, walk through NZ native bush full of ferns and tall podocarps like an 1800's pioneer or Maori warrior. visit the mud pools of Kuirau Park, take a peek at the geysers (incl. famous Pohutu)
 

Follow the eruption trail of Mt. Tarawera on a helicopter tour that includes a landing on the volcano. Best viewed from the air, the rugged landscape of this geothermal wonder is set amid a series of crater lakes. You'll take off from Rotorua and soar above the Northern Lakes district, listening to commentary about the region’s history and geology from the pilot-guide. Then take a 20-minute walking tour for up-close photo ops of the volcanic scenery.

Combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of our stunning crater lakes, the renowned Tarawera Falls and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves. Leaving Wai-O-Tapu we descend to follow the Waikato River to the hidden valley of Orakei Korako. Once landed, you will ferry across the river and begin your land-based tour. Experience hot springs, gushing geysers and the natural beauty of this geothermal wonderland. Your return flight takes in views of farmland and the Paeroa mountain range before flying over Rotorua City and returning to our lakefront pier.

Mt Tarawera – Fly / Drive Combo

This unique experience allows visitors to travel to Mt Tarawera with Volcanic Air, taking in the scenic wonders of the area from the air, before landing on Mt Tarawera for your guided crater walk experience. This flight includes the stunning scenery of Lakes Okareka, Tarawera and Rotomahana, as well as being able to see on clear days to White Island and Mt Ruapehu landing you on Mt Tarawera, Infamous for its eruption on June 10th, 1886, Mt Tarawera created the world’s youngest geothermal valley of Waimangu, at the same destroying the legendary Pink and White Terraces. You will be fully guided on a walking experience which encompasses the unique landscape and history of the area. With unmatched scenic vistas and 360 panoramic views this experience is ideal for all ages and includes an optional run in to the heart of the volcanic crater. This activity includes transportation to and from accommodation.

Experience the majesty of Mt. Tarawera, infamous for its volcanic eruption in 1886. This guided 4-hour trek encompasses the stunning landscape and unique history of the area. You'll follow a winding trail to the crater's edge for a panoramic view of the geothermal area. Travel by 4WD vehicle from central Rotorua hotels.

Experience the thrill of white water rafting on the Rangitaiki River. Rapids are mostly grade 3 with one grade 4 rapid. The trip consists of fun bouncy rapids running through a beautiful river valley featuring stunning views of native and plantation forest.

The Tarawera and Lakes Tour is the best way to appreciate the scenery of the Rotorua lakes district and learn more about the history of the land, the people, and the devastating 1886 eruption of Mt Tarawera. This unique 120 minute fully guided adventure takes place on land and water on-board in a genuine WWII Amphibious Duck. Visit 4 of Rotorua's stunning lakes and travel on 3 with the highlight being the stunning Lake Tarawera at the base of the mighty Mt Tarawera. Comfortable seating for all and great for families, couples and single travelers wanting to learn about our rich history and view natural landscapes. We pride ourselves on having tour guides that are highly knowledgeable and engaging. Our tours are done in a small group environment.

By Helicopter , combine the thrill of landing on Mount Tarawera (for an approximate 20 minute guided walk with your pilot) with a flight that includes spectacular aerial views of our stunning crater lakes, the renowned Tarawera Falls and the vibrant Waimangu and Wai-O-Tapu geothermal reserves. This tour highlights these amazing features unique to this region because of their location on our Faultline relative to the Pacific Rim of Fire.